Fancy getting your hands a little muddy? Come and play with clay!
As part of the Chester Ceramics Fair on Saturday 14 November, we’re bringing a little hands-on creativity to Grosvenor Museum with two fun, beginner-friendly clay taster sessions. Whether you’re a curious first-timer, a budding maker or simply looking for something a little different to do in Chester, you’re very welcome.
Discover how satisfying it can be to squish, shape, pinch and build something with your own hands. We’ll guide you through some simple techniques, share a few tips and help you create your own little piece to take home.
No experience is needed, and all materials are provided.
2:00–2:40pm | £8 per person (plus small booking fee)
Create a little dish inspired by the shapes and textures of nature.
We’ll explore the simple technique of pinch-potting before adding beautiful details using flower and leaf impressions. You’ll discover how a few simple marks can transform a piece of clay into something unique.
Perfect for anyone who loves nature, handmade objects and getting creative.
You’ll learn: basic pinch-pot techniques, how to shape a small dish and how to add botanical patterns and textures.
2:50–3:30pm | £8 per person (plus small booking fee)
Roll up your sleeves and discover the magic of building with clay coils!
We’ll show you how to roll clay into long coils and use them to build up a small sculptural pot. Experiment with shape, texture and form as you turn simple rolls of clay into something completely your own.
This is a lovely way to explore the possibilities of hand-building and see how a simple technique can lead to all sorts of creative results.
You’ll learn: how to roll and join clay coils, build up a form and add your own decorative touches.
When: Saturday 14 November 2026
Where: Grosvenor Museum, Chester
Session times: 2:00–2:40pm and 2:50–3:30pm
Price: £8 per person, per session
Places: Limited to 10 people per session
Experience: Complete beginners are very welcome
Materials: All materials are provided
What to bring: Just yourself and a willingness to have a go!
Each session lasts 40 minutes, with a short break between sessions to prepare for the next group.
You’ll be using professional use, sustainable air-dry clay from a clay supplier in Stoke. As there’s no kiln firing involved you’ll be able to take your creation home with you at the end of the session to dry naturally.
Please note that air-dry clay pieces are decorative only. They are not waterproof or food-safe, so your creation won’t be suitable for serving food or holding liquids.
Will my piece be fired in a kiln?
Not this time. We’ll be using an environmentally friendly, professional air-dry clay (which looks and feels like real clay), and dries naturally at home. Your finished piece will be decorative rather than suitable for food or liquids.
Can I paint my finished piece?
Yes, acrylic paints are great and for longevity you can always seal it with a varnish once its fully dry.
Can children come and what is the minimum age?
Children aged 5 and over are welcome when accompanied by a responsible paying adult (as it’s hard not to join in when you come to a session!)
Can I book both sessions?
Yes, you’ll need to book and pay for a separate ticket for each session.
What should I wear?
Clay can be messy, so we recommend wearing something you don’t mind getting a little dirty.
What if I can no longer attend?
If you need to cancel your booking, please contact us at least 7 days before your booked session to request a refund. If Chester Ceramics Fair cancels a session, ticket holders will be offered a full refund.
Arriving for your session
Please arrive around 5 minutes before your booked start time so we can get everyone settled. Sessions start promptly and last 40 minutes. Late arrival may mean you miss part of the activity, and we cannot guarantee that missed time can be made up.
Photography
Photographs may be taken during the sessions for Chester Ceramics Fair promotional purposes. If you or your child do not wish to be photographed, please let the session organiser know when you arrive. We will respect your wishes.
Explore the people, stories and pottery behind Chester Ceramics Fair.
