9th Wedding Anniversary Gifts

The 9th wedding anniversary is traditionally marked by gifts of pottery or willow—symbols of molding, resilience, and the strength that’s built over time. Pottery, in particular, holds a special charm. It represents something created with care, molded with love, and crafted to endure. If you're looking for a unique gift to celebrate this milestone, why not consider a pottery class? It’s not only a perfect symbol for a 9th anniversary but also a memorable experience that couples can share and enjoy together.

Why Pottery Classes Make the Perfect Anniversary Gift

Pottery is a creative activity that lets couples express themselves, get their hands dirty, and create something meaningful. Here are a few reasons why a pottery class makes such a meaningful gift:

1. Symbolic Significance: Pottery represents growth and craftsmanship—qualities that are essential to a lasting relationship. Just as clay needs time and patience to be molded into something beautiful, so does a marriage.

2. A Shared Experience: Unlike traditional gifts, a pottery class is an experience that partners can enjoy together. It's an opportunity to try something new, be creative, and create lasting memories.

3. Personalized Creations: Many pottery classes allow participants to take home their creations. Couples can craft items like bowls, mugs, or decorative pieces that will forever hold sentimental value, reminding them of the time spent together on their 9th anniversary.

4. Therapeutic and Fun: Pottery is known to be relaxing, almost meditative. Couples can unwind together, laughing through the challenges and finding joy in the process of creating something from scratch.

5. Perfect for All Skill Levels: Pottery classes are welcoming for beginners and offer a judgment-free environment for couples to enjoy, regardless of their skill or experience level.

Gift Vouchers: A Thoughtful Option for Anniversary Gifting

If you’re buying the pottery class as a gift for another couple, consider purchasing a gift voucher. Gift vouchers offer the flexibility for the couple to choose a class that suits their schedule, making it easier for them to plan a creative date night or weekend activity. How to Present the Gift

To make the gift even more special, consider pairing the gift voucher with a small, thoughtful item. Here are a few ideas:

• A Handmade Pottery Mug: Include a beautifully crafted mug as a preview of what they’ll create together, reminding them of the fun ahead.

• A Pottery-Inspired Card: Write a heartfelt note on a card featuring a pottery or clay-inspired design.

• A Photo Frame: Encourage them to take pictures of the experience and display them as a keepsake of their creative anniversary adventure.

Wrapping Up

Celebrating a 9th wedding anniversary is all about honoring the resilience, care, and growth in a relationship. A pottery class not only symbolizes these qualities but gives couples the chance to connect, laugh, and create together in a unique, meaningful way. Whether for yourself and your partner or as a gift for a special couple in your life, a pottery class will create memories (and keepsakes) that will last a lifetime.

Give the gift of creativity, connection, and love this anniversary with the magic of pottery!

Gift Vouchers!

Looking for a unique and creative Christmas gift idea? Pottery class gift vouchers are a fantastic option for anyone who enjoys hands-on experiences and a chance to unwind. Whether you're in North Wales, Chester, or the Wirral, these beginner-friendly pottery classes are the perfect opportunity for your loved ones to explore a new hobby.

Ideal for all skill levels, pottery is a relaxing and rewarding craft that allows participants to create their own beautiful, hand-crafted ceramics. With beginner-friendly instruction, even complete novices will feel confident on the potter’s wheel, making it a thoughtful and inspiring gift for friends and family this Christmas.

Surprise someone with a pottery class voucher this year – a gift that provides both creativity and lasting memories!

The Art of Ceramics: A Comprehensive Study of Materials and Methods

This course offers a blend of traditional and modern techniques, focusing not just on making, but on the artistic and scientific principles behind each step. Through a combination of structured instruction and open-ended exploration, you'll build confidence and skill in every stage of ceramic production—from shaping to firing. Take your skills from basic to professional in 24 weeks.

With small group sizes of up to four, you'll receive personalized attention from our experienced tutors, allowing you ample guidance and the freedom to fully explore your creative potential as a potter.

Course elements

• Hand Building Pinch Pots, Coils, & Slabs
  Discover the ancient technique of pinching clay into simple yet elegant forms. This foundational skill serves as an introduction to understanding the properties of clay. Learn to build larger and more complex forms using coils, perfecting this versatile hand-building technique that opens up endless creative possibilities.
  Explore slab construction, mastering the art of joining flat pieces of clay to create structured, geometric forms.

• Slip Casting
  Delve into the process of slip casting to create intricate forms using plaster molds, ideal for replicating designs with precision.

• Introduction to Wheel Throwing
  Get acquainted with the pottery wheel, learning the basics of centering clay and forming simple vessels. Spend a few sessions building up your skill and body of work.

• Advanced Wheel Throwing and Trimming
  Refine your wheel-throwing skills and develop advanced forms. Learn trimming techniques to add professional finishing touches to your pieces.

• Choice of Making
  Exercise creative freedom by choosing your preferred method—pinch, coil, slab, wheel, or slip casting—to create an ongoing personal body of work. These sessions focus on independent exploration with instructor guidance.

• Sprig Moulds and casting
  Explore decorative relief techniques using sprig molds to add ornate surface details to your ceramic work. Create your own moulds to add repetition to your work and build on creating your brand and style.

• Sgraffito, Inlay, and Slips
  Experiment with surface design through sgraffito, inlay, and colored slips, creating layered textures and patterns that enhance your work.

• Underglazes, Stains, & Decals
  Learn to apply underglazes and ceramic stains, understanding how color and texture interact on the surface of your pottery. Explore the use of decals for intricate and precise designs, offering another layer of customization and detail.

• Glazing Fundamentals & Specialty Glazes
  Master the essential principles of glazing, from application techniques to understanding glaze chemistry. Dive deeper into the world of glazing by experimenting with specialty glazes to create unique finishes, from crystalline effects to reactive surfaces. You’ll be guided through the weighing and mixing of raw materials to create your custom glaze.

• Kiln Management
  Gain hands-on experience with kiln operation, including loading, firing schedules, and troubleshooting common issues. This vital skill ensures the successful completion of your ceramic creations and will give you the confidnece if you wish to set up your own home studio.

• This course is designed to equip you with all the knowledge you need to create a large body of work with a polished, professional edge.

Further Development

As you develop your ceramic skills, you may wish to expand your creative practice into a business or side hustle. We’ll cover how to set up your own website, provide equipment for photographing your work, and help you curate your portfolio while building a brand. Additionally, you can join us in attending craft shows, which offer opportunities to network, engage with customers in person, and gain visibility in the artisan community. Each of these avenues provides unique benefits for growing your ceramics practice and sharing your work with a wider audience.

Japanese Pottery!

Discover the Art of Japanese Pottery in North Wales & Chester

Are you looking for a creative escape or a new hobby? We’re excited to introduce a unique Japanese pottery class, right here in the North Wales and Chester area, perfect for anyone living in Buckley, Mold, Queensferry, Penyffordd, and beyond! Whether you’re a seasoned potter or an absolute beginner, this class offers an incredible opportunity to learn traditional Mokume Gane and Nerikomi pottery techniques.

What You’ll Learn

Our pottery class focuses on two fascinating Japanese methods that allow you to create striking, decorative patterns in clay:

• Mokume Gane: Originally inspired by metalwork, Mokume Gane involves layering different colored clays and then slicing into them to reveal beautiful, marbled woodgrain patterns.

• Nerikomi: This technique, also known as Neriage, takes colored clay mixing to the next level, creating bold geometric and abstract designs. You’ll learn to stack, slice, and arrange clay layers to produce one-of-a-kind pottery.

These methods are perfect for making artistic bowls, plates, or home decor with an organic, handcrafted touch. Our experienced instructors will guide you step-by-step through the process, making this class suitable for beginners and experienced potters alike.

Why It’s Perfect for North Wales & Chester Locals

We know it’s not always easy to find creative opportunities nearby, which is why this pottery class is designed specifically with locals in mind. If you’re in Flint, Hollywell, Connah’s Quay, Hawarden, or surrounding areas, this is a great chance to take a break from your routine, meet like-minded people, and create something truly beautiful. The workshop is held in a convenient location, with all materials and tools provided, so all you need to bring is your enthusiasm!

Benefits of Joining

• Hands-on learning: Our expert instructors provide personalized guidance to ensure you master the Mokume Gane and Nerikomi techniques.

• Relaxation and creativity: Pottery is known for its therapeutic benefits. You’ll leave the class with not only new skills but also a sense of accomplishment and calm.

• Local convenience: No need to travel far for a cultural experience! This class is easily accessible to anyone in the North Wales and Chester area.

Join Us!

Ready to get started? Whether you're an art enthusiast or just looking to try something new, our Japanese pottery class offers a fun, educational, and creative experience. Spots fill up quickly, so be sure to sign up soon!

To find out more or to reserve your place, [contact us here] and let’s create something beautiful together!

The end of the Clwydian Creatives Art Tour 2024

Being part of the Clwydian Art Trail has been an incredible experience, and we're so grateful to everyone who visited our studio. It’s been a pleasure to welcome you into our creative space, where we had the chance to share the passion and craftsmanship behind our pottery. We’d like to extend a heartfelt thank you to those who took the time to speak with our resident potters, showing genuine interest in their work. Your support, whether it was through a kind word or by purchasing a pot or two, means the world to us and helps keep our creative journey alive!

We’d also like to say a big thank you to everyone who signed up for a pottery course – we can’t wait to welcome you back and share even more of our skills with you. A special shoutout goes to Sharon for her hard work in organizing the Clwydian Art Trail. Her dedication made the event a success, and we are so grateful for her support in bringing this creative community together. Thank you again to everyone for making this event so memorable!

We’re already looking forward to being part of the Clwydian Art Trail again next year and can’t wait to connect with even more art lovers and pottery enthusiasts! In the meantime, if you’re feeling inspired, why not join us for one of our pottery classes? Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your skills, our resident potters are excited to guide you through the process and help you create your own unique pieces. We’d love to see you in the studio soon!

Check out our exciting new workshop

Handbuilding Porcelain Festive Decorations

Yes, we know it is months away from the holiday season, but time flies, things book quickly, and we don’t want you to miss out on this fun yet relaxing activity.

In this two-hour workshop you will learn some easy ceramic decoration techniques using a variety of wooden stamps, vintage lace, and imprints from nature. Plus, you'll have access to a vast quantity of cutters to create stunning, delicate porcelain decorations for your tree.

We will also show you how you can use these decorations in multiple ways, but you have to come to the workshop to find out what they are!

A visit from Louise Waller Ceramics

We were thrilled to welcome Louise Waller Ceramics to our studio for a memorable visit. Her presence was a breath of fresh air, filling our creative space with enthusiasm and expertise. As the sun shone brightly on a particularly hot and sunny day, Louise took to the pottery wheel with her characteristic grace and skill, crafting a beautiful mug and a tumbler.

Watching Louise work on the wheel was inspiring. Her deft hands moved with precision and ease, shaping the clay into elegant forms. The sun that day was a vital tool that meant we were able to trim and set the mug to dry within a couple of hours.

Louise didn’t come empty-handed. She generously brought along vintage copies of Ceramic Review magazine. These treasures are a goldmine of ideas and inspiration for all our students, sparking new avenues for creativity and exploration in our community. The pages of these magazines are filled with timeless techniques and innovative designs, sure to elevate the work of everyone in our studio.

Our time with Louise wasn’t just about work, though. We had the chance to sit down over coffee and engage in rich conversations about pots and glaze techniques. These discussions were as valuable as any hands-on lesson, offering insights into the art and craft of ceramics that only someone with Louise’s experience could provide.

Her visit left a lasting impression on all of us. The blend of practical demonstrations, shared resources, and heartfelt conversations created an enriching experience that we will cherish. We are already looking forward to the next opportunity to welcome her back and continue our exploration of the fascinating world of ceramics together.

Thank you, Louise Waller, for your visit. Your passion and knowledge have left an indelible mark on our studio and our hearts.

Come and Visit Us At Clwydian Creatives Art Trail 2024

We are happy to announce that we are going to be part of the Clwydian Creatives Art Trail 2024 in September. This is annual open studios event where you have the opportunity to meet the local artists, witness their demonstrations, and engage in their creative process.

Our working studio will be open every Saturday and Sunday in September, from 11am to 5pm. Our current work will be on display for you to see, buy or talk about the processes involved.

Mat will be doing demos of hand building and wheel throwing. Come and play, enjoy the display, or just come in for coffee and a chat.

Student progress photo drop: - 6 week pottery course

Celebrating Our First Pottery Students' Creations!

We're thrilled to share the wonderful creations from our very first group of pottery students! In just six weeks, they have produced an array of beautiful and functional pieces, showcasing their creativity and skill development.

Our students explored various pottery techniques, including slab building, pinch pots, and coil building. The results are stunning:

• Slab-Built Soap Dishes and Oil Burner: These pieces highlight the versatility and precision of slab building.

• Pinch Pots for Spoons: Perfectly sized and shaped for kitchen use, these pots demonstrate the tactile and intuitive nature of pinch potting.

• Gorgeous Coil-Built Planters: These planters not only serve as functional items but also as decorative art pieces, showcasing their skills.

To add the finishing touches, the students used a variety of decorative techniques. Underglaze decals provided detailed patterns and images, while glossy and matte glazes added both shine and texture. Ceramic stains were used to enhance the natural beauty of the clay, resulting in unique and personalized pots.

Join Our Next Pottery Class!

Inspired by these beautiful creations? Our next pottery class starts in September, and we would love for you to join us. Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to refine your skills, our classes offer a supportive and creative environment to explore the art of pottery. We can't wait to see what you'll create!

About Our Location

Deeside is easily accessible, situated just 24 kilometers from Liverpool and well-connected by public transport, making it convenient for students from nearby cities such as Chester and Wrexham.

Hire our kilns!

Are you a ceramic artist, hobbyist, or just someone passionate about exploring the world of pottery and ceramics? We’re excited to announce that we now offer kiln hire, perfect for all your firing needs. With our top-of-the-line kilns and a wide range of accessories, you can achieve the best results for your projects.

Meet Our Kilns

We are proud to offer two exceptional kilns for hire, designed to meet you diverse needs.

The Ecotop 43 Toploader

• Volume: 43 litres

• Maximum Temperature: 1260°C

• Int Dimensions (mm) - ø400 x 340(h) 

• Features: This compact yet powerful kiln is ideal for most ceramic projects. Its efficient design makes it perfect for artists who need a reliable kiln that doesn’t compromise on performance.

The Ecotop 60 Toploader

• Volume: 60 litres

• Maximum Temperature: 1260°C

• Int Dimensions (mm) - ø400 x 455 (h) 

• Features: This larger kiln from the Ecotop series is perfect for those bigger projects or for artists who need extra space. The Ecotop 60 Toploader offers the same exceptional performance as its smaller counterpart but with additional capacity.

We understand that firing ceramics is not just about having the right kiln. That’s why we provide a variety of accessories to ensure your projects turn out perfectly:

• Kiln Stilts: Ideal for keeping your pieces elevated, ensuring even heat distribution and preventing glaze from sticking to the kiln shelf.

• Props: Available in various sizes, our props help you support your work securely, allowing for more intricate designs and multiple layers.

• Shelves: We offer shelves in different sizes to accommodate your specific needs, whether you’re firing small test pieces or larger works of art.

Contact us to discuss your project and specific needs. We’ll help you choose the right kiln and accessories.

Student progress - 6 week pottery course

It has truly been an incredible journey observing the progress of those enrolled in the 6-week hand-building course at our studio. Witnessing our students not only acquire new pottery skills but also refine and customize them to create remarkable pieces has been a delight. Many participants have shared experiencing an immediate boost in their overall well-being and sense of relaxation during each session. The tranquil ambiance of the studio, complemented by soft piano melodies from our playlist, has effectively facilitated a soothing environment that has allowed students to immerse themselves in the meditative art of handcrafting pottery. Throughout the weekly classes, they have delved into the techniques of pinching and coiling pots, as well as constructing various forms through slab building. Venturing into the realm of creativity, they have explored the applications of underglaze decals, ceramic stains, brush-on and dip glazing. Each week, they meticulously assessed their creations, dedicating conscious efforts to refining the finishes under the guidance of Mat, our skilled resident ceramic artist here at Earth Sand & Fire.

Our studio is easily accessible from North Wales, Wrexham, Chester, Ellesmere Port, Wirral and the surrounding areas. Gift vouchers are also available if you would like to gift someone an unforgettable experience in clay. The next 6 week course will begin in September 2024 details of which can be found here 6 WEEK HANDBUILDING COURSE

We look forward to meeting our next group of future potters!

Gift Vouchers for Pottery Classes

The perfect gift has arrived on our website. Gift Vouchers are now available for purchase! These vouchers make for perfect presents to give to your loved ones for birthdays, anniversaries, or simply as a special treat to show your appreciation. Giving the gift of pottery is a truly wonderful gesture, as each recipient is guaranteed to thoroughly enjoy creating memories through the experience you gift them. Our gift cards come in convenient denominations of £20 each and can be easily redeemed for any of our exciting courses at Earth Sand & Fire ceramics studio in Deeside.

A new door opens.

After years of honing my craft as "Potter in Residence" at The Barn, I am embarking on a new adventure with the opening of Earth Sand & Fire pottery studio in Deeside, Flint.

My time at The Barn was nothing short of transformative. From the moment I first stepped through its weathered doors, I knew I had found a place where my passion for pottery could flourish. The community of artisans and craft enthusiasts that call The Barn home welcomed me with open arms, and I am forever grateful for the guidance, inspiration, and camaraderie they have provided.

Having previously learned my skills under the guidance of mentors and peers at Baltic Clay, I honed my teaching skills, experimented with new techniques, and found my voice as an artist and teacher. However, it was within the walls of The Barn that I discovered the true joy of teaching pottery—the alchemy of earth, sand, and fire coming together to create something beautiful and meaningful.

As I reflect on my time at The Barn, I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude. Gratitude for the friendships forged over a love of craft, and the more than occasional pint at The Johnny Pie! Gratitude for the countless hours spent shaping, glazing, and firing, each piece a testament to the dedication and passion of this vibrant community. And gratitude for the lessons learned and the growth experienced, both as an artist and as a person.

But as one chapter closes, another begins. With Earth Sand & Fire, I am excited to build upon the foundation laid at The Barn Wirral and continue to create, teach, and inspire. I look forward to working closely with my friends and colleagues from The Barn—my "sisters in craft"—collaborating on projects, sharing resources, and supporting one another as we embark on this new adventure together.

To all who have supported me on this journey—thank you. Your encouragement, feedback, and belief in my work have fueled my creativity and spurred me on to new heights. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to share my passion for pottery with the world, and I can't wait to see where this next chapter takes us.

Embracing Inclusivity: Our Pottery Studio's Commitment to Accessibility

At Earth, Sand & Fire pottery studio, we believe that art should be accessible to all, regardless of ability. That's why we've made it our mission to ensure that our studio is a welcoming space for everyone, including those with disabilities.

For us, it's important to cater to everyone. We firmly believe that creativity knows no limits, and we're committed to breaking down barriers that may prevent individuals from fully participating in artistic endeavors. From the moment you step through our doors, you'll find that accessibility isn't just an afterthought – it's woven into the very fabric of our studio.

We've worked tirelessly to ensure that our studio is wheelchair-friendly, with wide doorways, ramps, and accessible restroom facilities. We want everyone to feel comfortable and welcome from the moment they arrive, and that starts with ensuring that our space is easily navigable for individuals of all abilities.

Whether you're a seasoned artist or a complete beginner, there's a place for you at Earth, Sand & Fire pottery studio. We invite you to join us in our mission to make art accessible to all and experience the joy of creativity without limits. Together, we can build a more inclusive world, one masterpiece at a time.

We’re almost ready to open our doors!

Getting our new studio up and running has been a joyous journey filled with hard work and dedication. From rolling up our sleeves and painting the shelves in calming green hues that tie the space together, to meticulously sorting out the lighting to create the perfect ambiance for creativity to thrive, every detail has been thoughtfully curated. And let's not forget about the pièce de résistance – our gorgeous plants. They not only add a touch of greenery but also breathe life and freshness into our workspace, making it a place where inspiration blossoms at every corner. Each plant is lovingly housed in handmade pots, of course!

Preparing our studio space for our future members and class attendees has been a labor of love, ensuring it's fully equipped with everything needed to ignite creativity. We've invested in top-notch equipment to cater to a variety of ceramic pursuits, including slab rollers for those who love handbuilding with clay, pottery wheels for budding throwers, and kilns to bring those masterpieces to fruition with a perfect finish. Our goal is to provide a welcoming and functional environment where everyone can explore their creativity and hone their skills with the best tools at their fingertips.

As we put the finishing touches on our studio, we're thrilled to announce an exciting addition to our offerings – a new range of glazes that will soon be available for our members to experiment with and elevate their creations. But that's not all! Our in-house studio potters, Matthew Hughes and Jacquie Seddon, are hard at work crafting a stunning new range of pots that showcase their expertise and passion for pottery. We can't wait to see the beautiful pieces that will come from their fingertips in our studio. Stay tuned for upcoming pottery classes.

Unveiling Our Pottery Haven: A New Studio in Deeside

Welcome to the world of clay and creativity! We are thrilled to announce the grand opening of our pottery studio nestled in the heart of Deeside. At Earth Sand Fire, we're passionate about pottery and dedicated to providing a space where enthusiasts of all levels can immerse themselves in the art of ceramics. Whether you're a seasoned potter or a curious beginner, our studio offers an inspiring environment to unleash your creativity.

One of the cornerstones of our studio is our diverse range of pottery classes. From introductory sessions for beginners to specialised workshops for advanced techniques, there's something for everyone. Our experienced instructors are here to guide you through each step of the process, from shaping clay on the wheel to glazing your finished masterpiece. Discover the joy of working with your hands and bring your artistic visions to life in our supportive and encouraging atmosphere.

In addition to our classes, we're excited to offer studio space for members. Become a part of our vibrant community of potters and gain access to our fully equipped facilities. Whether you're looking to hone your skills, experiment with new techniques, or simply immerse yourself in the creative process, our studio provides the perfect space to let your imagination run wild. With flexible membership options, you can tailor your experience to suit your individual needs and schedule.

Conveniently situated in Deeside, our studio is easily accessible from Queensferry, Chester, and Ellesmere Port alike. There is a local cafe next door called Zone 1 Cafe where you’ll find amazing coffee. We’re located just off the main road where you’ll be able to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and step into our tranquil oasis of clay and craftsmanship.

At Earth, Sand, and Fire studio we're passionate about fostering creativity and building a community of like-minded individuals who share our love for pottery. Whether you're looking to learn a new skill, unleash your artistic potential, or simply connect with others who share your passion, we invite you to join us at our new studio in Deeside. Come discover the joy of pottery and embark on a journey of self-expression and discovery. We can't wait to welcome you into our pottery haven!