Sgraffito Decorating Technique Class

Service Description

Join us to create beautifully decorated Sgraffito technique pieces of artwork. (see pictures) Sgraffito (in Italian "to scratch in") is a decorating technique produced by applying color(s) (underglazes) to leather hard pottery and then scratching off parts of the layer(s) to create contrasting images, patterns, and texture and reveal the clay underneath. During the first class, students create a platter, tray, or plate, followed by practice using the carving tools on a tile provided. During the second class, underglaze is applied to the now leather-hard forms, and the image is scratched in. Students are encouraged to bring in an image. No drawing experience is necessary as stencil can be utilized, and images can be embossed into the clay. Students learn how to create forms utilizing a hump mold and learn to use the slab roller. Pieces are glazed by staff and students return to pick up their completed artwork in approximately 3-4 weeks. Clay, underglaze, glaze and firing included. Staff makes every effort to guide students through a successful build.