Slipware Tile Pottery Workshop

Create a pair of striking glazed tiles at this pottery workshop in Bristol.



2.5 hours Class size 1 to 10 guests       £60 (PayPal Pay in 3 available)

In this relaxing pottery workshop, you'll learn how to create decorated ceramic tiles using traditional slipware techniques. Throughout the evening session, you'll develop skills in applying white slip to dark earthenware clay while exploring various decorative methods.
This hands-on activity welcomes participants of all skill levels, requiring no previous pottery experience. The process combines simple techniques with artistic expression – perfect for experiencing this centuries-old craft tradition.
During the workshop, you'll explore multiple decorative approaches including stencilling (using cut patterns to create designs), sgraffito (scratching through the slip to reveal the dark clay beneath), and slip trailing (applying lines of slip to create raised patterns). These methods of applying light clay on top of dark to provide striking contrast have been used since the early medieval period, often finished with a beautiful orange honey glaze to enhance the effect.
By the end of this enjoyable workshop, you'll have created your own collection of slipware tiles that connect you to a rich ceramic tradition. Your pieces will be left to dry, glazed by the instructor, and will be ready for collection up to 4 weeks after the workshop.
What you'll get
Two glazed tiles to collect after firing
Knowledge required
No prior knowledge of ceramics needed.
What to bring
  • Apron / clothes you don't mind getting messy!
  • Sketchbook or notebook
Suitable for

This class is great for individuals and couples as well as for a date idea, team building activity, birthday or hen do.

This experience would also be a unique gift for her, gift for mum or gift for couples.

Location

Spike Island, Cumberland Road, Bristol

Slipware Tile Pottery Workshop location
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Your teacher

Phil Root
Phil Root

5.0 (1)
Instagram followers 5k followers

I work from my studio at Spike Island, Bristol and run an educational wood fired kiln site in North Bristol called Lyde Green Pottery that I founded in 2021 where I regularly run workshops on wood firing and kiln bulding, I am also a lecturer in Ceramics and Fine Art at the Bristol School of Art. My classes revolve around the materials and techniques I use in my own work from Slipware and Encaustic medieval tiles to ash glazes and wood firing.

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2026-07-03 15:00:00
class 1E57MXLBSX b30fa37a8c654059964d2a78c24cea95 production bristol Bristol South West GB bristol