Handcrafted Pottery: 3D Modeling and Decoration

A course by Garbo Zhu , Ceramist

Ceramist. Toronto, Canada.
Joined November 2023
100% positive reviews (3)
1,358 students
Audio: English, Spanish, French, Indonesian, Italian, Portuguese, Romanian, Turkish
English · Spanish · Portuguese · German · French · Italian · Polish · Dutch · Turkish · Romanian · Indonesian

Learn handcrafted pottery techniques and 3D modeling with Garbo Zhu, creator of Grumpy Kid Studio

Dive into the captivating world of handcrafted pottery with Garbo Zhu, the founder of Grumpy Kid Studio, and explore everything from the basics of working with clay to creating unique, personalized pieces.

You’ll work with both fundamental and advanced modeling techniques, whether you prefer using a potter’s wheel or hand-building. You’ll learn how to center the clay, open it up, throw, shape, and trim it with precision.

Once you’ve shaped your mug, you’ll delve into the art of 3D sculpting, adding details and features that will transform your creation into a distinctive piece full of character.

Create functional and decorative pottery with a unique style, equipped with the knowledge to troubleshoot any issues that arise along the way, thanks to the tips and insights you’ll gain.

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What will you learn in this online course?

16 lessons & 16 downloads

Basic Shaping Techniques 2
17 minutes, 7 seconds
Hand Building Techniques
10 minutes, 16 seconds
Attaching 3D Elements 1
13 minutes, 54 seconds
Attaching 3D Elements 3
12 minutes, 46 seconds
Color Application and Painting 1
19 minutes, 19 seconds
Preparing for the Firing
11 minutes, 35 seconds
  • 100% positive reviews (3)
  • 1,358 students
  • 16 lessons (2h 35m)
  • 16 additional resources (3 files)
  • Online and at your own pace
  • Available on the app
  • Audio: English, Spanish, French, Indonesian, Italian, Portuguese, Romanian, Turkish
  • English · Spanish · Portuguese · German · French · Italian · Polish · Dutch · Turkish · Romanian · Indonesian
  • Level: Beginner
  • Unlimited access forever

What is this course's project?

The final project involves designing, modeling, and decorating a personalized ceramic mug with 3D details. From creating a mood board to applying the glaze, you’ll bring a unique piece to life that reflects your style and creativity.

Who is this online course for?

This course is designed for anyone looking to explore the art of pottery, whether you’re a beginner or have previous experience in other artistic disciplines.

It’s perfect for those interested in sculpture and 3D modeling who want to take their skills to the next level, creating functional and decorative pieces with a personal touch.

Requirements and materials

You’ll need ceramic clay, a potter’s wheel or hand-building tools, low-fire glazes, and basic sculpting utensils.

A ceramic kiln is also recommended for firing your pieces.


Reviews

1,358 Students
3 Reviews

Garbo Zhu

Garbo Zhu
A course by Garbo Zhu

Teacher Plus
Ceramist

Garbo Zhu is the creative force behind Grumpy Kid Studio, a pottery brand known for its distinctive and expressive handmade pieces. Garbo is an artist dedicated to quality and authenticity in every creation.

With a background in architecture and a deep passion for art, Garbo has skillfully blended technical expertise with creativity in her work. Her projects have gained recognition on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, where she shares her artistic process and connects with a global audience.


Content

  • U1

    Introduction and Influences

    • About Me
    • Influences
  • U2

    Working with Clay

    • Materials and Tools
    • Basic Shaping Techniques 1
    • Basic Shaping Techniques 2
    • Hand Building Techniques
  • U3

    Decorating Techniques

    • Mood Board for Your Cups
    • Attaching 3D Elements 1
    • Attaching 3D Elements 2
    • Attaching 3D Elements 3
    • Low Temperature Bisque Firing
    • Color Application and Painting 1
    • Color Application and Painting 2
    • Preparing for the Firing
  • U4

    Fixing Errors and Fine Detailing

    • Troubleshooting Common
    • Mug Preservation
  • FP

    Final project

    • Pottery for home decor

What to expect from a Domestika course

  • Learn at your own pace

    Enjoy learning from home without a set schedule and with an easy-to-follow method. You set your own pace.

  • Learn from the best professionals

    Learn valuable methods and techniques explained by top experts in the creative sector.

  • Meet expert teachers

    Each expert teaches what they do best, with clear guidelines, true passion, and professional insight in every lesson.

  • Certificates
    Plus

    If you're a Plus member, get a custom certificate signed by your teacher for every course. Share it on your portfolio, social media, or wherever you like.

  • Get front-row seats

    Videos of the highest quality, so you don't miss a single detail. With unlimited access, you can watch them as many times as you need to perfect your technique.

  • Share knowledge and ideas

    Ask questions, request feedback, or offer solutions. Share your learning experience with other students in the community who are as passionate about creativity as you are.

  • Connect with a global creative community

    The community is home to millions of people from around the world who are curious and passionate about exploring and expressing their creativity.

  • Watch professionally produced courses

    Domestika curates its teacher roster and produces every course in-house to ensure a high-quality online learning experience.


FAQs

Yes, this course is designed for beginners with no prior experience in pottery or ceramics.

You’ll need basic pottery tools, clay (air dry or ceramic), a workspace, and optionally a pottery wheel. The course provides guidance on affordable equipment and alternatives.

Yes, the course covers fundamental handbuilding methods and introduces wheel throwing, including centering, pulling, shaping, and trimming.

Yes, the course includes tips for setting up an efficient home pottery studio, including space planning, ventilation, and budget-friendly equipment.

The course explains the pros and cons of air dry versus ceramic clay, helping you select the best type for your intended use and durability needs.

Yes, you’ll learn how to sculpt, attach, and paint 3D clay flowers and decorative motifs on mugs, including preparing and finishing techniques.

The course covers safe firing, understanding kiln cones, glazing techniques, and where to find community firing resources if you don’t own a kiln.

Information about the course and certificate

Handcrafted Pottery: 3D Modeling and Decoration. Craft course by Garbo Zhu

Handcrafted Pottery: 3D Modeling and Decoration

A course by Garbo Zhu
Ceramist. Toronto, Canada.
Joined November 2023
  • 100% positive reviews (3)
  • 1,358 students