Which Level is Right for Me?

We’ve created a clear, supportive pathway so you can grow your skills at your own pace  - whether you're just starting out or looking to deepen an existing practice.


  • Best for:
    Anyone new to clay,  no experience needed.

    What you’ll learn:
    The basics of working with clay & studio etiquette

    Introductory techniques in wheel throwing or handbuilding

    Getting comfortable with the material

    What to expect:
    A relaxed, supportive environment with plenty of one-on-one guidance. Great for anyone curious about ceramics or looking to try it out before committing to a longer course.

    You’re ready to move on when:
    You've taken a taster or short beginner course and feel ready to build on your basic skills in a more structured setting.

    Book a Level 0 class →


  • Best for:

    Ideal for those who’ve done a taster session or want a more in-depth introduction. No strong prior skill required, you can begin your clay journey on level 1. 

    What you’ll learn: 
    Core techniques: centering, cylinders, trimming (Wheel Throwing)

    Pinching, coiling, slab-building (Hand-building)

    Basics of form, glaze, and process

    Confidence in the studio environment

    What to expect:
    A 6-week course with guided teaching, personal attention, and time to develop key skills. Includes materials, firing, and support throughout.

    You’re ready to move on when:
    You can form basic shapes independently, understand drying and firing stages, and feel excited to try more complex forms or styles.

    Book a Level 1 class →

  • Practice makes perfect! Once you’ve completed 15 hours of teaching at Level 1 or above, you can apply for Studio Membership here, giving you access to independent practice time, community events, and ongoing support.

    We'll help you decide when you’re ready. Or move on to Level 2 Courses if you feel like you would like to continue learning from a teacher.

  • Best for:
    Students who’ve completed Level 1 or have similar experience and want to deepen their skills.

    What you’ll learn:
    Refined technique and more complex forms

    Personal expression through your making

    Greater consistency and control

    Independent decision-making in the studio

    What to expect:
    Focused skill-building and more creative freedom. Classes are still small, with individual guidance as you start shaping your own approach to clay.

    You’re ready to move on when:
    You’re confident with core techniques, exploring your own aesthetic and interested in deepening your practice or exploring advanced forms. It may be time for you to become a member to enjoy self-directed practice.

    Book a Level 2 class →


  • Best for:
    Experienced makers who are seeking challenge, direction and are developing an independent studio habit.

    What you’ll learn:
    Advanced techniques and concepts

    Working at scale or with complexity

    Conceptual and personal development

    What to expect:
    A more self-directed environment with expert support. Masterclasses with guest artists. Ideal for artists pushing their practice further or simply exploring ceramics at a deeper level.

    Book a Level 3 class →

You can repeat any level until you feel confident to move on, there’s no rush.

Once you’ve completed 15+ hours of instruction at Level 1 you’re eligible to apply for Studio Membership here.

Class FAQs

  • To request a cancellation and refund, you must email refunds@throwingshapes.ie. Refunds requested more than two weeks prior to the first class are fully refundable. There will be no refunds once the class begins in any circumstance, nor can we transfer you to another class. Unfortunately we cannot be flexible on this policy for any reason. Should a class not fill sufficiently, we may cancel or reschedule it one week prior to the first class session.

  • No - everything is included in your course. If you'd like to buy your own toolkit you can add one at checkout when purchasing your class, but tools will be provided either way.

  • No, all students must be 18+ to attend classes.

  • Of course! You can book them into an available class and add their name on checkout, or purchase a gift card for them to decide on their own class.

  • For our taster classes you pick a glaze and we glaze the work for you.

    For our 6 week courses you pick 5 of your favourite pieces and glaze them on your 6th week.

    For our weekend 2-Day or 3-Day courses you will return 4 weeks later to glaze your own work. You will be notified of this date after you have booked the course.

  • We add new blocks of classes approximately three months in advance of classes starting.

  • Yes you can! If a class is fully subscribed the option to join the waiting list will appear. Leave your email address and if a there is a cancellation we will notify by email.

  • No, classes are available on a first-come first-served basis and can not be prebooked.

  • This is subject to availability. You can email info@throwingshapes.ie to see if we have anything available to switch to. If we do not your spot will be cancelled according to our cancellation policy (above).