Sgraffito Workshops

My Sgraffito workshops introduce participants to the process of carving imagery through a coloured surface to reveal the clay beneath. Sgraffito is a decorative technique used on greenware, where layers of slip or underglaze are applied before the surface is carefully carved to create line, texture and contrast. The workshop begins with a short introduction to my ceramic practice and examples of different sgraffito approaches, followed by demonstrations of tools, mark-making techniques and ways of developing an image. Participants first experiment on a “sketchbook” tile, using a variety of carving tools to explore abstract marks, geometric patterns and illustrated motifs before moving on to a final piece. Designs can be drawn directly onto the clay or transferred using tracing paper. Throughout the session I offer individual guidance, helping each participant translate their ideas into a carved design and think about how line, negative space and texture work together. The workshop provides all tools and materials, including prepared tiles, carving tools, slips and brushes. By the end of the session each participant will complete up to two decorated tiles or work on their own pre-made leather-hard piece, which will then be fired and finished with a transparent glaze. The aim is to create an encouraging environment where beginners and more experienced ceramicists alike can experiment with sgraffito and gain confidence in this versatile technique.