Online Surface Decoration in Ceramics: Techniques in Slip and Overglaze
Tuesdays evenings 6 - 9 p.m. 
6 Sessions
April 15 - May 20, 2025
Instructor: Chris Snedden

Course Overview:
This six-week online course explores a wide variety of surface decoration techniques for ceramics, focusing on both traditional and experimental methods using coloured decorative slips and over-glaze brushwork. Students will develop a comprehensive set of skills for creating unique decorative effects and patterns, with the freedom to adapt techniques to personal projects. By the end of the course, participants will have a well-rounded library of techniques to enhance their work. 
 
Tools and Materials Required:
Studio Setup: Wheel throwing studio with stable internet connection; phone/tablet to capture hands and wheel during class.
Basic Tools: Preferred clay and throwing tools, newsprint or paper, scissors, pencil, and a small carving tool (e.g., MNR 5 Mini Ribbon Tool).
Additional Supplies:
Slip Supplies: Coloured slips (recipes provided) and knowledge of specific oxides and carbonates.
Brushes: Variety of brush sizes; Sumi brushes recommended for slips and over-glaze.
Glaze: Fat white glaze that fits your clay body and remains stable during firing.
Slip Trailing Bottle and Banding Wheel.
Decoration Tools: Red rubber stamps, images, newspaper clippings, and printed pictures.
Hakeme Brush: Made from a straw bristle broom with rubber bands for bristle hold.
 
Classes will be conducted via Zoom. A Zoom link will be emailed to each participant, and the same link will be used each week.
 
If you need assistance setting up your camera or phone, this will be reviewed during the first class.
 
Small class size ensures that each student receives direct and personalized feedback.
 
All sessions will be recorded and made available for you to rewatch or catch up on if you miss a class.
 
 
Chris Snedden, a potter with over 40 years of experience in London, Ontario, discovered his passion for clay at BealArt and furthered his studies at Georgian College. Throughout his career, Chris has built electric kilns, taught nationwide workshops, and completed private commissions, including liturgical pieces and recognition awards. An active member of the arts community, Chris has held leadership roles in FUSION: The Ontario Clay and Glass Association. He currently teaches at Lambton College, at Clayworx (formerly the London Clay Art Centre), and has built a solid reputation for delivering engaging online classes, while continuing to create and exhibit his award-winning work.