This winter, why not come along to Ravn Clay's cosy Ford studio to build stoneware grotto cottages. Two sizes are available, and the workshop will introduce support the development of slab-building pottery techniques.

This three hour session is designed for any one but will be quite challenging technically. You will have access to materials, templates and lots of support to create up to three different grottos. Don't be put off if this is your first try at pottery - the end result will be very rewarding. The taller ones will measure approximately 13cm tall when complete, the smaller ones nearer 10cm.

We will work together to make the grottos, and once finished, they will stay at the studio to be fired, glazed (in a single colour of one of the dipping glazes we have available) and then re-fired. We usually say work will not be ready for postage or collection in less than four weeks. It can be quicker, but the process is a long one.

Our prototype Grottos are as individual as we are. Everything you need to be successful will be provided on the day. Despite having set templates for things like walls and roofs, each grotto is a canvas on which you can create your own distinct cottage. If you choose to illuminate your grotto from the inside, we recommend using battery tea-lights and never real flames. The ridge line of you cottage is one of the only limiting factors - we ask that all decoration (chimneys, gargoyles etc) is under this maximum height.

The larger grotto (left) measures approx 13cm tall. The smaller (right) 10cm

There are only six places per session - that allows enough access to support for everyone to be successful! Also, as this is a creative class designed to be accessible for younger potters, a parent or guardian must stay with any participant aged 16 or under. Each ticket will enable one participant to work with clay. If you are accompanying a younger potter, and want to join in, please book an additional space; if you will only attend to help them, no extra ticket is needed.

A word of warning - the kiln Gods can be fickle, and despite doing everything possible, some pieces will fail, crack or blow up (!) in the kiln. There are no guarantees in pottery, not even for seasoned potters.

A second word of warning - working with pottery can be hugely addictive. You have been warned!

The old billiard room is now the Ravn Clay Studio - with windows, radiators, hot water and a loo - utter luxury for those who remember and visited the old Heatherslaw siteThe New Ford Studio is housed on the ground floor of the old Reading Rooms - you will find it just up the road from Lady Waterford Hall. Nearby are many attractions and places to walk, shop and eat; how about a near by Narrow-guage Railway (that runs to Etal Castle and back), a working flour mill, a Village Shop & Tearoom, a heavy horse centre, a micro-brewery, or a Riverside cafe. During the off-season, opening times and access to some of these attractions and facilities can be limited. Please check before making extensive plans.

https://w3w.co/lobster.rapid.clinking

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The Reading Room now houses a small gallery, where we are proud to display and sell our pottery alongside prints, jewellery, glassware and stone-carvings made by other local crafters and artists from Northumberland and the Borders. Access to the studio is only via a set of external stone steps, and there is a single toilet available on site. The booking fee secures a spot at the maker's table; if you need to stay to support a younger participant, please make sure you have noted this when you book your ticket!

Please note - the cost includes all materials, tuition, glaze and firings. If you need your work posting out to you or someone else, please ensure you book an additional postage and packing ticket!

Remember, under 16s need a parent or guardian in attendance. You can assist and support your young person, but if you want to build your own tree(s), you'll need to book and pay for an additional space.

We look forward to seeing you soon. And festive whatnots to you all!

Winter Grottos