Here’s a quick breakdown of what your first spin on the wheel will be like at Firefly, your first choice for pottery in Leeds.

What is Wheel Pottery?

Pottery can be made in lots of different ways. Wheel-made or ‘thrown’ pottery is created by using a spinning wheel to help your hands shape the clay. Traditionally, wheels were spun using a stick or a kick of the foot, but modern wheels have an electric motor.

What Class Will Suit Me?

We run sessions to suit every level of interest at our Leeds pottery studio. On Friday, Saturday, and Sunday mornings, we offer private wheel classes for 45 minutes, 2 hours, or 3 hours. These are great for a date or a special treat (we also sell gift vouchers for these sessions). Friday, Saturday, and Sunday afternoons feature our 2-hour small group wheel sessions, which are perfect if you want to learn in a friendly group environment.

If you are looking for a longer learning experience, all of our introductory courses include wheel teaching, and we run a specific 4-week pottery class in Leeds several times a year.

What Will I Need to Bring?

For your wheel pottery class at Firefly, we will provide you with an apron. Clay is a messy substance, so comfortable clothes that you don’t mind getting a little dirty are ideal. Clay will brush off once dry and will completely wash away in a regular washing cycle. You are welcome to bring a change of clothes and change here if you are hitting the town before or after your session.

If you have long hair, it’ll help to tie it back, and short nails will make throwing much easier (although we can work around it if you have just had them done!). You will also need to remove watches, rings, and bracelets—but again, don’t worry if you have items you can’t take off, as we can accommodate them.

How Will the Class Work?

When you come for your session, one of our friendly tutors will talk you through a demonstration of making a pot from start to finish. They will then guide you through making your own pieces step-by-step, working at a pace that is comfortable for you.

Once your session is finished, your pottery will be dried and fired. We will let you know when it is ready, and at that point, you can either collect your pots or book a follow-up session to paint or glaze them. This initial process typically takes 2 to 4 weeks.

Will I Come Out With a Teapot in 45 Mins?

Throwing on the wheel is a skill that is developed over time. Like any craft, some people pick it up faster than others, but people tend to get the best out of their sessions if they don’t set their expectations too high and simply focus on enjoying the process.

Is it Like Ghost?

I’m afraid we can’t promise Patrick Swayze, but our studio is located in a beautiful Victorian Mill building, so there might just be some pottery-loving spirits floating around somewhere!