Glaze Chemistry

In this 6-week class students will explore the science and art of ceramic glazes in our Glaze Chemistry class. This hands-on course teaches you how to mix and modify glazes. Each class covers the very basics of glaze chemistry to help demystify the glaze room and glaze recipes. Most classes will start with a presentation where the material is presented in an approachable way to anyone who is interested in learning. You’ll be making your own test tiles, followed by experimenting with ingredient variations and advanced blending techniques. Discover how different materials affect glaze outcomes through line and triaxial blends. 

The course culminates in a collaborative session where you'll share your findings and learn from the results of others. Ideal for anyone interested in deepening their understanding of ceramic materials and expanding their creative expression. At the end of the session we will hold a potluck and discussion of all our findings!

This is an Intermediate Level class. Prior clay experience is necessary.

Learn more about instructor Ryana Lawson.

We believe clay is for everyone! Need tuition assistance? Please visit our tuition assistance page for more information.

What’s Included:

• 1 bag of clay (pick up on the first day of class).
• Access to our studio during open studio hours to work on projects between classes (daily from 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM).
• A personal half-shelf for storing tools, clay, and in-progress work.
• Access to glaze materials outside of class meetings.

What to Bring:

• Basic Pottery Toolkit (should include a cut off wire, wooden knife, wooden rib, metal rib, needle tool, sponge, trimming loop tool and double-ended ribbon tool.)
• Apron or clothes that can get dirty are recommended.

Pottery Northwest has communal tools available for everyone’s use if you cannot afford to buy your own tool kit. Personal tool kits and additional clay can be purchased at the online student store.

Please Note:

• WE HAVE MOVED STUIO LOCATIONS. Our new address is 2250 7th Ave, Seattle, WA 98121
• Regardless of your prior class history at PNW, it is mandatory to attend the first week's orientation since we are all in a new space together.
• Due to our relocation and time of the year, this quarter will consist of all 6-week classes instead of the normal 10-weeks. We will begin with our regular cycle of 10-week classes in January of 2027.
• THERE WILL BE NO CLASSES FROM NOVEMBER 23 - 29. Classes will resume on Monday November 30th
• Free Parking in the parking garage located at the entrance on 8th avenue. No validation required weekdays after 4pm and none required at all on weekends.