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Pressed Flowers in Clay: A Two-Part Handbuilding Workshop

A collage showing botanical clay art: the left image features flowers pressed into clay slabs and a round dish, creating detailed impressions; the top right shows a person painting over a pressed flower in clay; the bottom right displays fresh plants arranged on terracotta-colored clay before pressing.

Introductory - No experience required
Age Requirement : 18+ and minors 13+ with Guardian Supervision
Ticketed Workshop

Instructor: Linnie Hall


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In this two-part handbuilding workshop, students will create decorative clay pieces by pressing fresh flowers into slabs of clay and shaping them into functional and beautiful forms. Guided by instructor Linnie, participants will explore slab-building techniques and learn the fundamentals of working with clay while crafting nature-inspired designs.

 

This workshop meets on two dates: October 4 (making) and October 12 (glazing).

What to Expect

On the first day (October 4), participants will shape their clay pieces using slab techniques and pressed floral textures. Linnie will guide you through how to handle clay, attach elements with slip, and support your forms as they dry. After the pieces are fired, you’ll return on October 12 to glaze your creations using hand-applied techniques. Finished work will be ready for pickup after the final firing.

Fresh flowers will be provided for pressing, but you’re welcome to bring your own blooms if you’d like to personalize your work.

Skills You’ll Acquire

• How to press natural materials into clay for texture and design

• Basic slab building techniques for decorative and functional items

• Attaching clay components using slip and scoring

• Supporting and drying clay pieces properly

• Hand-applied glazing techniques

• Fundamentals of clay handling, thickness, and firing prep

What’s Provided

• Clay, glaze, and fresh flowers for pressing

• Tools, boards, and support materials

• Kiln firings (both bisque and glaze)

• Instruction and hands-on support from an experienced ceramics teacher

What to Bring

• Clothes you don’t mind getting messy

• Optional: your own fresh flowers to press into your clay

Who Should Attend

This class is perfect for beginners, plant lovers, or anyone looking to try ceramics in a welcoming and creative environment. No experience with clay is required—just bring your curiosity and a willingness to get your hands dirty.

Prerequisites/Safety Information

No prior ceramics experience required. All materials and safety guidance will be provided. Please wear closed-toe shoes and clothes you can work in.

 

Please note: The first session (October 4) will run for approximately 3 hours. The second session (October 12) is expected to be shorter—around 1 hour depending on each participant’s glazing needs, but time will be allotted for up to 1.5 hours.
When
Saturday October 4th, 2025 from  1:00 PM to  4:00 PM
Location
MakeHaven
770 Chapel Street
New Haven, CT 06510
United States
Contact
Email:
Workshop Ticket Fee
Standard Public Ticket $85.00
Partnership Members (Creative Arts Workshop, other maker space) $77.00
MakeHaven Members $73.00
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Need Based Workshop Price Adjustment

MakeHaven offers a price reduction for individuals who are below a threshold income level.
You can apply at: Workshop Price Reduction Request.

Notices

Learn about our event policies, such as cancellations and inclement weather: Event Policies Page
Find the answers to the most commonly asked questions about workshops and events Event and Workshop FAQ.

 

Accessibility

Our facilities undergo periodic reviews to maximize ADA compliance. We offer accessible bathrooms, elevators, and wide walkways. In tool usage, we aim for universal access and work individually to adapt tools for safe usage as necessary. If you anticipate needing an adaptation to participate in this event or have further questions, please contact us at events@makehaven.org.