Learn the basics of slip casting and plaster mold making in this hands-on workshop! We’ll compare 2-part and 1-part molds and explore how 3D-printed molds can be used to create custom shapes. Students will mix and pour their own 1-part plaster mold, then get a hands-on demo of pouring slip to cast a small cup. Finished pieces will be fired and ready for pickup at a later date.

What you will learn and create:

• Basics for mold design and the types of common plaster molds
• How to mix and pour plaster
• Tips and tricks for working with casting slip
• Tips and tricks for cleaning up flashing and finishing wet parts.
• All students will get the chance to try pouring casting slip in provided molds and pick up bisque ware after firing.

Who Should Enroll: Designed for students with prior clay experience. Ages 16+ because of dangers of working with plaster dust (please contact us directly if looking to enroll as a family). Ideal class for current members at a ceramic studio, so your bisque can be glazed at a later date.

What we’ll provide: Plaster and casting slip will be provided for demos; pre-made plaster molds will be used during the class for hands-on practice and stored for public use in the studio. 3D designs will also be available on our local shared drives for member-only continued use. Fired bisque can be picked up 2 weeks after class date and is expected to be glazed at a later time, either in our studio (for clay members) or at your own studio (for any non-members).

What to bring: notebook for sketching and notes, clothes you don’t mind getting messy in, and a respirator or face mask (can be provided too).