From Fabric to Clay - Workshop with Sam Briegel

Join us with Sam Briegel Saturday, September 19th to learn how to make fabric-inspired forms out of clay!

In this one day, 8 hour workshop, students will learn how to make and utilize an 8.5’’x11’’x1’’ low-relief fabric textured plaster slab. After teaching students how to make their own molds, Sam will show multiple ways to use the textured slab of clay, such as leaving it flat to make coasters and tiles or by using a two-dimensional foam template to hand build a basic cup or mug.

Students will begin the workshop by pouring their own 8.5’’x11’’x1’’ plaster slab from a low-relief swatch of fabric. Sam will then share basic techniques to transfer their fabric texture onto a slab of clay, as well as a more advanced technique of transferring layers of colored texture using stained slips.

Fabric textures will be available for students to choose from, but students are encouraged to bring their own. Students will not be able to use their plaster slab until it is cured and fully dry, so students will practice transferring texture on a provided plaster slab the day of the workshop. 

Sam Briegel is a ceramic artist from Knoxville, Tennessee. She earned her MFA in Ceramics from Ohio University after completing her BFA at the University of Tennessee and a post-baccalaureate certificate at the University of Montana. Her work has been represented at the Smithsonian Craft Show, and she has led workshops and visiting artist engagements nationwide. She currently works from her home studio near Baltimore, Maryland, and teaches part-time at the Maryland Institute College of Art.

This workshop is perfect for the maker who loves texture and enjoys hand building functional work especially out of slabs. Sign up today to add a new technique to your studio practice! This workshop is suitable for Intermediate-Advanced artists. Basic knowledge of rolling out slabs of clay and slab building strongly encouraged.

The event will include breakfast refreshments and a 45-minute lunch break. Feel free to bring your own lunch, snacks, and beverages! We seek to foster a community here, so if you want to bring enough to share, we always encourage pot-luck style gatherings.

Note: While we can’t guarantee the quality and success of the pieces you make in this class, instructors will do their best to guide you through the process. Students are expected to assist with cleanup of their workspace.

Please visit our policies page for cancellation and rescheduling information.