ClayStation MCR

After two decades as a biologist and biology teacher, Amy Macleod took up ceramics as a way to immerse herself back into creativity – and never looked back. After becoming hooked on the tactile nature and mindful elements of pottery, she now creates beautiful pieces from her studio in Heaton House in Manchester, and teaches fellow creatives how to make pieces that are meant to be both used and treasured. 

What's it like for someone who's never really tried pottery before, to walk into their first class?

Our studio is a cosy and welcoming place, and we want you to feel instantly comfortable and supported as you practise your new craft.

What skills or techniques can people learn in your workshops?

So many! It really depends on what class people are taking. Our workshops may cover wheel throwing, including clay preparation, centring, pulling and trimming, as well as hand-building with slabs, pinching and coiling. They can also learn underglaze application, carving and sgraffito, and how to add handles and knobs. We cover glazing techniques too, with a primer on glaze-making and how kilns work. Essentially, it's a broad range of ceramic skills, tailored to each workshop!

Has a ceramic class ever turned into an unexpected celebration — a proposal, an announcement, a reunion?

We've certainly seen lots of long-term friendships forged in our classes. Who knows where that might lead!

Is there something about your craft or your classes that naturally brings people closer than other activities?

The friendly, warm and cosy atmosphere of the studio naturally brings people together, and my enthusiasm seems to be quite contagious! Working side by side with clay, sharing the highs (and the wobbly pots!), is a lovely way to connect.

What's the most memorable thing or moment a student has created in your classes?

One student made an entire tea set, teapot included, on his beginners' wheel course. That's pretty rare for a first-timer, and we were all so impressed!

What's the biggest misconception people have about yoour classes before they try one?

That throwing on the wheel will be really easy. Spoiler: it's not! But it's really fun, and with a bit of practice it does get easier.

If someone only took away one thing from one of your  workshops, what would you want it to be?

When you're learning a craft as an adult, the best approach is to set your expectations aside and just have a go. In my experience, students who can do that have a much better time and often make better pieces too. The goal is to enjoy the process and learn, rather than focusing too much on the outcome.