10 Things You Can Make in a Hand-Building Workshop
Have you ever watched your hands shape clay and caught yourself thinking, “I could make something truly special here…”? That’s exactly the spark we cultivate in our workshops at POT STUDIOS, in the “Gold Coast”. We believe the magic happens when you let your ideas play freely in your hands. Whether you’re totally new to clay or have a little experience, our hand-building sessions are designed to bring what’s in your mind to life, one pinch, one coil, one slab at a time.
Here are 10 inspired and useful things you can make in a hand-building workshop (and you’ll get to keep your pieces as a lasting reminder of your creativity).
1. Fruit Bowl
A fruit bowl is a perfect first project because it's both functional and expressive. At POT STUDIOS, you can join our hand-building pottery workshop and learn how to create a beautiful fruit bowl from scratch. Using simple slab or coil techniques, you’ll shape, smooth, and decorate your bowl with textures or patterns that reflect your personal style. It’s a fun, hands-on experience that lets you explore the relaxing art of pottery.
Our fruit bowl workshop is designed for all skill levels, manageable in one session, practical, and incredibly rewarding. You’ll walk away with a handmade piece you’ll actually use on your kitchen table every day, filled with fresh fruit and a sense of pride.
2. Handmade Mug
There’s something special about sipping your morning coffee from a mug you’ve crafted yourself. During our mug-making session, you’ll learn how to build the body, attach a handle, and design it to suit your style, whether that’s rustic and earthy or clean and modern.
You can stamp your initials, carve a small design, or glaze it in your favourite colour. Each mug is a reflection of its maker, and you’ll love the sense of pride every time you pour a drink into it.
3. Vase or Flower Holder
Want to make something that adds beauty to your home? A vase is the perfect project for that. You’ll experiment with height, shape, and surface design, learning how to create structure and balance by hand.
At POT STUDIOS, we’ll guide you step by step so you can create a vase that feels natural and expressive — perfect for fresh blooms or dried flowers. It’s also one of the most satisfying pieces to glaze, as the colours truly bring it to life.
4. Platter or Serving Bowl
A platter or serving bowl is ideal if you love entertaining. You’ll roll out clay slabs, cut and shape them, and add your personal touch — maybe a textured rim, stamped pattern, or smooth minimalist finish.
Our instructors will show you how to create strong, even surfaces so your piece is not only stunning but practical for everyday use. Bring it out for snacks, fruits, or appetisers; it’s the kind of pottery that always starts a conversation.
5. Planter or Pot for a Plant
If you adore indoor plants, this one’s for you! In our hand-building planter pottery class, you can make a custom pot that suits your plant’s personality.
Learn how to form the shape, add drainage holes, and decorate with impressions or glazes. Whether you prefer a sleek modern pot or something quirky and textured, this project is both relaxing and rewarding — and your plants will thank you for it!
6. Dinner Set (Bowls & Plates)
There’s something truly special about dining with pieces you’ve made with your own hands. Join us at POT STUDIOS on select dates for our Dinner Set Workshop — a full-day creative experience where you’ll design, hand-build, and glaze your very own ceramic dinnerware set.
During this immersive workshop, you’ll be guided step by step in creating:
4 x Dinner Plates (approx. 21 cm in diameter)
4 x Side Plates (approx. 19 cm in diameter)
4 x Pasta Bowls
✨ Spend a day creating, connecting, and crafting memories that last.
7. Tumblers or Cups
Tumblers are simple yet elegant, perfect for drinks, desserts, or even as candle holders. Using the slab-building technique, you’ll learn to roll, join, and smooth the clay into a perfect cylinder.
You can decorate with hand-painted glaze designs or keep it minimalist with natural clay tones. It’s a fast, fun project that’s great for both beginners and those looking to fine-tune their skills.
Join our Tumbler Workshop at POT STUDIOS and create your own beautiful, functional ceramic tumblers using hand-building techniques.
8. Sectioned Serving Bowl
Want something a little unique? Try a sectioned serving bowl! It’s a great way to practice shaping and joining, as you create multiple compartments in one piece.
These bowls are perfect for snacks, dips, or sauces and look amazing when glazed with contrasting colours. During our serving bowl workshop, you’ll learn how to keep the structure sturdy while giving it your own creative twist.
9. Colander or Strainer Bowl
For a fun challenge, build your own ceramic colander, yes, a real, working one! You’ll learn how to create even walls, carve holes safely, and design handles that balance beauty and function.
This project helps you develop precision and control while staying true to the hand-built aesthetic. The result? A one-of-a-kind kitchen tool that’s just as lovely as it is useful.
10. Pet Bowl
Give your furry friend something extra special — a handmade bowl crafted with love!
Join us at POT STUDIOS on select dates for our Pet Bowl Workshop, where you’ll learn to hand-build and design a custom ceramic bowl just for your pet.
You’ll get to choose your own shape, size, and glaze style, so whether it’s for a playful pup or a graceful cat, your creation will be as unique as they are. This fun and relaxing session is perfect for beginners and animal lovers alike.
✨ Create something beautiful and lasting for your best friend.
Why Hand-Building at POT STUDIOS is So Special
At POT STUDIOS, we believe pottery isn’t just about clay, it’s about mindfulness, creativity, and community. Our hand-building workshops in the Gold Coast are designed for all levels, from complete beginners to experienced hobbyists. You’ll learn professional techniques in a relaxed, welcoming environment, surrounded by friendly instructors and like-minded creatives.
Each session is hands-on, engaging, and therapeutic — a little escape from your busy day where you can connect with yourself and the joy of making.
You’ll leave with a beautiful handmade piece — and the unforgettable feeling of saying, “I made that!”
Ready to get your hands muddy and your imagination sparked? Reserve your spot for a workshop, bring your ideas, and let’s make something beautiful together. Your next favourite piece of home décor? You’re about to build it.