Confessions of a Workshop Whisperer

Confession #731…Things I’ve Learned Teaching Adults to Play with Mud—Again

As a full-time ceramic artist and pottery instructor, I get the joy of guiding people into the wonderful world of clay in my handmade pottery workshops. And let me tell you, it’s not just about teaching people how to make handcrafted mugs or pottery vases—it’s about creating a space where creativity can flow freely and where students can discover the beauty of the process, imperfections and all.

I run a range of handbuilding pottery workshops throughout the year—Fire Up Fridays, weekend sessions, and specialty classes. And every time I see a student’s eyes light up when they shape their first piece, I’m reminded of why I started this journey in the first place: to share the magic of handbuilding ceramics and to teach others the joy of creative expression.

Here’s what I’ve learned from teaching adults to play with mud, get their hands dirty, and embrace the creativity that lies within each of us.

The Magic of Playing with Mud (And Not Just for Kids)

When I first started teaching adults, I thought it would be all about perfect, sharp lines and polished pottery. But instead, I quickly realised that pottery isn’t just a craft—it’s a release, a chance to embrace the mess and play with the clay in a way that’s free from expectations. Handbuilding pottery is therapeutic in a way I never anticipated, and watching my students realise that it’s okay to make mistakes is one of the most rewarding parts of teaching.

Whether you’re making a pottery bowl or a simple ceramic tray, the joy isn’t in the finished product—it’s in the process. And when I see that spark of excitement in someone’s eyes as they realise they’ve made something real, something they can touch, hold, and keep, it’s truly magical.

The (Not-So) Hidden Skill of Letting Go

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned from teaching adults is that letting go of control is often the hardest part. Many of us are used to having things go according to plan, but clay doesn’t always cooperate—it resists, it bends, it cracks. And that’s okay. Because in pottery, as in life, imperfection is beauty.

I’ve seen students get frustrated when their piece doesn’t look exactly as they imagined it. But then, they begin to let go. They start to embrace the process and see the beauty in the flaws. And that’s when the magic happens. Every handcrafted piece becomes a reflection of their journey—not just their hands, but their hearts too.

Pottery Is More Than Just a Craft—It’s a Mindset

Pottery is a wonderful teacher of patience, perseverance, and self-compassion. The work is slow, intentional, and requires focus—but it’s also incredibly rewarding. I often remind my students that it’s not about the piece they create in the end, but the transformation they undergo while creating it.

Each time a student leaves the studio with a finished piece of pottery, it’s a reminder that creativity doesn’t need to be perfect—it just needs to be. Pottery, like life, is about the journey, not the destination.

The Community Vibe: From Strangers to Supportive Creators

One of the most unexpected joys of teaching is seeing the community that forms in my workshops. Whether it’s Fire Up Fridays or a weekend handbuilding ceramics class, the studio becomes a space where people connect—not just through clay, but through shared stories, laughter, and encouragement.

It’s amazing to see how supportive everyone is of each other, whether they’ve been making pottery for years or it’s their first time. There’s something special about watching students help each other, celebrate wins, and offer guidance. It’s not just a pottery class—it’s a creative family.

Why You Should Get Your Hands Dirty

If you’ve ever thought about trying pottery, let me tell you: there’s no better time than now. Whether you’re looking to make a handmade ceramic mug or just want to play with clay for a few hours, there’s something incredibly liberating about getting your hands dirty.

It’s not about being an artist—it’s about embracing your creativity, having fun with the process, and walking away with something uniquely yours. You’ll learn a lot about yourself in the process—about patience, resilience, and how to find beauty in the imperfect.

So, if you’re ready to get your hands in the mud, join one of my handmade pottery workshops. It’s a place where the mess is part of the magic, and the creativity flows freely.

Ready to play with clay?

Sign up for my handmade pottery workshops today, and let’s create something beautiful together.

Until next time,
Nawsheen, your friendly homebody artist from Murrumbateman.