Pottery Class: A Day on the Wheel

Come and spend a day trying your hand at wheel throwing



4 hours

Class size 1 to 3 (public classes), 6 to 6
  $280

Learn the basics of pottery wheel throwing in this fun, hands-on workshop in the Adelaide Hills! Perfect if you're looking for unique things to do in Adelaide or just want an excuse to unwind from the stresses of life and be immersed in the pottery wheel.
This class is perfect for beginner potters or those who want to brush up on their pottery skills and resolve any issues.
The session is held at Red Bird Studio in the Adelaide Hills and is led by Alison Arnold and Rose Maguire, two very experienced potters who will demonstrate the process of wheel throwing step by step and then guide you through the process as you try your hand.
Alison and Rose will take you through the whole process from preparing the clay to forming and finishing the pot on the wheel. With over 50 years of experience between them, they will share many of the tips and tricks they have learned along their own journey.
There is also a limit of six participants per class, to ensure that everyone gets lots of individual tuition.
At the end of the class the pieces you make will be finished, glazed and fired and ready to collect three to four weeks after the class, when they'll be food-safe and ready to use at home!
What you'll get
  • Expert tuition with two experienced potters.
  • All clay and materials to make your own ceramics on the pottery wheel.
  • Firing and glazing of your ceramics (which will be ready to collect three to four weeks after the class).
Read more details   
Knowledge required
Designed for absolute beginners as well as more experienced potters
What to bring
Wear comfortable clothes that you don't mind getting messy in.
Suitable for

This class is great for a team building activity, Christmas party, birthday or hens party.

Location

Hawthorndene, SA

Exact location is masked for privacy. You'll automatically get the specific address after booking.

Pottery Class: A Day on the Wheel location
Verified reviews

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Recent reviews of Pottery Class: A Day on the Wheel

  • 5/5 from Katherine Kotaras, attended Jul 2026: I was lucky enough to receive a pottery class voucher as a Christmas gift, and it was such a wonderful experience. With a small group of just three people, we had plenty of individual guidance while learning the basics of wheel throwing, including making a cylinder, bowl and plate, before decorating our pieces with a great selection of paints. Ali was incredibly patient, explained each step clearly, and was always there to help whenever needed. Her beautiful studio in the hills has such a calm, tranquil atmosphere, making it easy to relax and enjoy the experience. Having done wheel throwing before in a much larger class, I really appreciated the almost one-on-one attention, which helped me understand and improve my technique. The coffee and cake were also a lovely touch. I would highly recommend this class to anyone wanting to try pottery or build their confidence on the wheel!
  • 5/5 from Fiona O, attended Apr 2026: Absolutely loved this experience! Setting was gorgeous and the group was small so we all had plenty of opportunity to get one on one assistance and ask questions. Ali was so skilled and knowledgeable and very patient. I had assumed we’d only made one item so was thrilled that we had the time to make 4 different pieces which meant we could practice all the techniques. Highly recommend this class and would happily attend any others taught by Ali. Thank you for a wonderful day!
  • 5/5 from Claire Wade, attended Mar 2026: Ali is an amazing teacher, friendly, helpful, enthusiastic and knowledgeable. We made some amazing cups, bolws and plates. Can't wait to see how they turn out after firing.
  • 5/5 from Tania Jones, attended Mar 2026: Fabulous class, Alison is a very teacher and makes it easy to follow. Lovely atmosphere in beautiful gardens surrounding her studio.
  • 5/5 from Beate Linckelmann, attended Jan 2026: I had a very enjoyable day learning wheel throwing today. As I was a complete beginner with no experience at all, Ali was great in teaching this in a structured and calm way. Lots of 1:1 tuition due to a small class size. I can highly recommend this workshop.
  • 5/5 from Karen Peake, attended Jan 2026: Loved it and now need to perfect the art of the potters wheel! Thanks Ali! X
  • 5/5 from Alice Dalrymple, attended Sep 2025: A fantastic introduction to wheel throwing! Definitely eager to get properly stuck into Pottery going forwards.
  • 5/5 from Prue Spry, attended Sep 2025: Great information and relaxed way of teaching, great hands on help, small class, great space, definitely recommend!
  • 5/5 from Georgina Windley, attended Aug 2025: Ali and Mandy's class was great. It was a small group, so there was plenty of time for 1:1 guidance, with a good mix of demonstrations and time on the wheel. Four hours went quickly and I achieved so much more than I expected due to the extra time and support. If you are interested in learning how to use a pottery wheel I would recommend this class.
  • 5/5 from Amy Davies, attended Jul 2025: Such a great experience! Ali and Mandy have so much knowledge and were so helpful. We were all at different levels of capability and they were able to help us where we needed. Would definitely recommend to any beginners or if you’re wanting to advance your skills.
  • 5/5 from Mary Thompson, attended Jul 2025: I loved every minute of this course. Two skilled artists teaching the six of us how to throw, centre and work the clay on the wheel sharing tips and tricks, In a well equipped studio. Resulting in three pieces of work to take home plus new skills to further develop. Excellent day well worth the investment.
  • 5/5 from Peta O'Loughlin, attended Jul 2025: Red Bird studio did a great job teaching me some of the tips and tricks of pottery making. Did some wedging, handle making, centering, pulling and throwing. Got such a great buzz from learning from the ladies, thankyou.
  • 5/5 from Chantal Wight, attended Jul 2025: Ali has an amazing studio. She and Mandy were really good at explaining and supporting us on the techniques for wheel throwing and identifying what mistakes we were making and how to fix them. We made vases and bowls. I am feeling inspired!!
  • 5/5 from Paul Reynolds, attended May 2025: We had a great day learning the basics of pottery on this course. A small group of people (6) with 2 instructors made for a productive day! The instructors were very helpful and patient...which was a good thing with our group :-) We made multiple objects, and I believe this course to be great value! Highly recommended.
  • 5/5 from Anna Rough, attended May 2025: A fabulous introduction to clay throwing. A demonstration, then small group "on wheel" instruction to create your own individual masterpiece. Maximum group size of 6 which made the day very personalised. A great experience that I highly recommend.
  • 5/5 from Sophie Pointer, attended Mar 2025: Had a fabulous day on the wheel with Ali and Rose! Lots of encouraging advice and help when needed. Can't wait to see the final result come out of the kiln!
  • 5/5 from Kelly Higgins, attended Mar 2025: Really lovely and knowledgable and highly skilled tutors, welcomed into a beautiful home studio in the Adelaide Hills with hands on tuition. Highly recommend.
  • 5/5 from Susan Arthure, attended Mar 2025: A fabulous class. I learned loads and made five vessels. Ali and Rose are excellent teachers, and very very patient. I recommend this class to anyone with an interest in learning how to make pottery, from beginners to people with a bit of knowledge - something for everyone
  • 5/5 from Jo Magarey, attended Oct 2024: Loved it! Small group with lots of support and guidance when things went wobbly! Learnt a lot from centreing & building a basic canister shape to plates. Great that we could glaze our pieces in lovely vibrant colours. Will definitely be back.
  • 5/5 from Liz McGrath, attended Mar 2024: Great workshop Loved it Very supportive teachers Beautiful space to chill out and learn new skills
  • 5/5 from Vittoria Carrocci, attended Jan 2024: Class size was optimal and teaching was very thorough and hands on. Class was relaxed and easy going with no rushing.
  • 5/5 from Lucy Silvy, attended Jan 2024: Absolute best time ever. Epic studio with everything you could ever need. Thoroughly enjoyed every minute and especially loved the small class size and 2 teachers.
  • 5/5 from Marie Gould, attended Nov 2023: Thank you Ali and Rose for a wonderful class for our whole family. All of us gained confidence in working on the wheel and will be back!
  • 5/5 from Lynne Huxford, attended Jul 2023: Great teacher, easy to understand and very helpful, class small so lots of time spent with each student.
  • 3/5 from Reza Chizari, attended Jul 2023: Strengths: -Valuable tools and resources -Welcoming and comfortable atmosphere -Supportive and well-Informed mentors Areas for Enhancement: -Limited accessibility to watch learning for some students -Dirty seats -Lack of Warm Water for Cleaning Tools and Buckets -Insufficient Time Allocation for Painting Activities
  • 5/5 from Olivia Grocke, attended Mar 2023: Our teacher was great. Her demonstration was very thorough and she gave assistance when required to give me the most pleasing outcome. I’d had a go on a wheel over forty years ago and remembered it being difficult. I certainly didn’t expect the results achieved today. A really fun day.
  • 5/5 from Rachel Reilly, attended Mar 2023: Great class, lovely, skilled teachers and great environment to learn. All materials were provided, even cake :)
  • 5/5 from Sophie Golley, attended Mar 2023: The workshop was amazing! Everyone was so nice and talented and the atmosphere was beautiful! I had done some pottery work before the workshop but still learnt so much valuable information and different techniques. So exited to see the final pieces!
  • 5/5 from Ingrid Combe, attended Feb 2023: A very enjoyable day. Instructors were very helpful. I was very happy with my pots
  • 5/5 from Jo Hayes, attended Feb 2023: Great instructions and help offered if required. A great activity to do with great friends. Relaxed atmosphere, peaceful yet energising! Lots of laughter and we came away with a new appreciation for the skill of clay work
  • 5/5 from Bronwyn Mumford, attended Feb 2023: Loved it. Had a girls day out and was awesome fun and great instructors. 10/10
  • 5/5 from Hanlie Erasmus, attended Jan 2023: Excellent and enjoyable workshop. Ali and Rose are patient and ensured all participants received individual assistance.
  • 5/5 from Ruth Harris, attended Jan 2023: Had a wonderful day at Red Bird's Day on the Wheel. The group was intimate (6 people) who were all interested and friendly. Instruction by Ali was thorough and both Ali and Rose were very helpful whenever we needed some extra expertise in shaping our items! Everything went smoothly and I really enjoyed it. It's inspired me to have a look at doing some more pottery so much fun but challenging too. Highly recommend.
  • 5/5 from Jacqui McBride, attended Nov 2022: Thank you to both very kind and patient ladies who taught pottery on the wheel so kindly. Great fun and i was surprised that i made 4 pieces that are pretty ok. Lovely cup of tea in the garden. You are bith so very encouraging even calling my first wonky one art
  • 5/5 from Clare Collier, attended Nov 2022: A fun, hands-on experience that exceeded my expectations. Alison and Rose were excellent teachers, supportive, patient, and encouraging throughout the process. I highly recommend this class and look forward to seeing my pieces when they have been fired.
  • 5/5 from Heather Carter, attended Nov 2022: A fantastic day that truly exceeded my expectations! The two teachers were excellent and the venue was beautiful. So pleased with what I made. Thank you.
  • 5/5 from Deborah Elliott, attended Oct 2022: An enjoyable afternoon - Alison and Rose are wonderful teachers. Highly recommended for beginners and more experienced wanting help with any issues in throwing on the wheel.
  • 5/5 from Sandra Sibley, attended Aug 2022: My 14 year old son attended the pottery class and had a great time. He managed to make 2 plates, a mug and a doughnut. He has asked to go again next year. The instructors were very helpful with helping him be successful. It was a great gift idea
  • 5/5 from Sarah Sidoryn, attended Aug 2022: Fantastic Class in a beautiful setting. Will definitely returning to take part in another class in the future.
  • 5/5 from Tracey Reardon, attended Jul 2022: A fabulous day with amazing teachers who are inspirational and patient! Highly recommend this course
  • 5/5 from Catherine Flint, attended Jun 2022: It was so much fun. Rose and Ali were very helpful and gave lots of tips and tricks so everyone was successful in making pots and plates.
  • 5/5 from Wendy O'Brien, attended Jun 2022: An incredible day with a lot of success. Our teachers were amazing and so helpful. Well worth the $.
  • 5/5 from Rob Ellinger, attended Jun 2022: Really fun day out to learn the basics of pottery on a wheel. Teachers very knowledgeable and patient.
  • 5/5 from Alexandra Westlake, attended Jun 2022: This was a delightful experience. Set in a truly authentic setting amongst the clay, pottery & gardens! Our teachers were so helpful and willing to share their skills & experience (I was a complete beginner!). The class surpassed my expectation as I was concerned I would struggle to create anything worthwhile due to my lack of experience but I came away with three lovely pieces that I will enjoy using for years to come. A highly recommended afternoon.
  • 5/5 from Heather McCracken, attended May 2022: I had a fantastic day at my Pottery - A day on the wheel class. Ali and Rose are amazing teachers. I made 3 pieces of pottery and I am quite proud of them I would definitely recommend this class
  • 5/5 from Marcia Whittaker, attended Apr 2022: Had a wonderful day! I learnt so much with two beautiful ladies that were willing to share so much. Thank you I will be back to learn more!
  • 5/5 from Henry Lawson, attended Apr 2022: Great venue. Very friendly. Welcoming, patient and helpful teachers. I would highly recommend this class.
  • 5/5 from Anna Aisatullin, attended Apr 2022: Great class! Friendly informed teachers willing to spend time with each of us. Would recommend to anyone wanting to try!
  • 5/5 from Kate Hayward, attended Mar 2022: Amazing workshop, so fun and interactive. Teachers were really amazing, knowledgeable and helpful. I would strongly recommend this workshop for anyone who wants to try pottery on the wheel.
  • 4/5 from Denny Hudson-Bayliss, attended Nov 2021: The venue was really nice and well equipped. The teachers were very friendly and helpful. When I was having trouble with the techniques of clay and the wheel she was understanding and patient. Overall I had a good time
Your teacher

Red Bird Studio Art
Red Bird Studio Art

4.9 (168)

Alison is a full-time studio potter and teacher living in the Adelaide Hills. She has been making pots for over 30 years but clay has been a part of her life from early childhood. Memories include hands in the sticky red ‘Murram’ mud in Kenya where she spent several years as a child, and at high school in the UK creating elaborate sculptural animals and Celtic inspired coil pots.
Alison began formal studies as soon as she came to live in Australia in 1999 gaining a BA at Adelaide Centre for the Arts. She then took up a place on the associate training scheme at the JamFactory in Adelaide and continued as a studio tenant. Before setting up her own studio she took up further study at the University of South Australia obtaining a Graduate Diploma in Arts and Cultural Management.
Alison has built up an extensive library of forming and decorating techniques and enjoys sharing these with students as well as using them to make and decorate pots from the functional to the whimsical. Drinking vessels, bowls, kitchenware are thrown on the wheel with practical simplicity or delicately formed by hand into ultra-fine porcelain objects. She relishes every part of the process of making from design stage and consideration of form and function to indulging in the elaborate, highly decorated whimsy of exhibition pieces.

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