Continuing the Craft: A Ceramic Slipcasting Workshop for All Levels
Discover the process of ceramic slipcasting—from idea to object—in a welcoming workshop designed for all levels. Whether you’re new to ceramics or looking to expand your skills, North Carolina-based artist Daniel Garver’s upcoming workshop at Touchstone Center for Crafts offers an introduction to mold making and casting techniques. Through model building, mold pouring, and hands-on experimentation, participants will walk away with essential skills and plenty of inspiration to continue exploring the process independently.
The workshop offers participants a comprehensive look at the ceramic slipcasting process—from idea generation and model making to mold pouring, casting, and glazing. While the pace will be fast, the workshop is structured to be accessible to anyone interested in trying out this method.
“This short workshop would be a great introduction to get a feeling for slipcasting and mold making in general if that is something you have been curious about exploring,” Garver said. “Whether it is slipcasting or just simple press molds, the course should provide you with ideas and skills to continue pursuing your work independently.”
A unique aspect of Garver’s approach is the focus on mold mutability and shape relationships rather than rigid modeling. “I often don’t make a model when making my own work,” Garver explained. “But rather am constantly thinking about positive and negative shapes and forms in relation to making a mold. This approach…changed the way I look at objects and understand how they were made.”
Garver brings a deep commitment to passing on knowledge gained through years of study and mentorship in the field of clay. That includes honoring the influence of a mentor who left a lasting impact early in Garver’s career. “I felt and still feel a strong internal push to carry on the techniques, skills, and philosophies that he so freely shared.”
Touchstone’s immersive campus setting complements the intensive workshop, offering space to explore both technical and creative aspects of ceramics. “One week is so quick to get through all the elements,” Garver said, “but students should walk away with enough information to get a taste and applicable skills to keep working independently.”
Models, Molds, and Casting Clay
JUNE 16-20 | 5-DAYS (MON-FRI)
Instructor: Daniel Garver
All Levels
This workshop will cover the process of slipcasting ceramics from start to finish. We will start with making models out of clay and plaster, pouring plaster molds, casting clay, and glazing. The goal is to understand and execute the entire process from designing an object all the way through to a fully realized ceramic object. Upon completion, participants should have a basic understanding of moldmaking and casting that they can confidently build upon in their own practice. Additional topics will include basic clay and glaze chemistry, mixing various materials, including plasters, rubber, casting slip, and glaze.