Handbuilding vs. Wheel Throwing: Which is Right for You?
Finding the right fit at your local Brisbane pottery studio
If you’ve been curious about trying pottery, one of the first questions you’ll encounter is: Should I start with handbuilding or wheel throwing?
At Grace Ellen Ceramics, our Bulimba-based studio offers beginner-friendly pottery classes in Brisbane where you can explore both approaches at your own pace.
Each technique offers something different—and beautiful. Whether you’re drawn to clay for relaxation, creativity, or connection, this guide will help you discover what suits your style (or if you’d like to try both!).
Handbuilding Ceramics: Creative, Relaxed & Community-Oriented
Handbuilding is one of the oldest and most accessible ways to work with clay. Using simple techniques like pinching, coiling, and slab construction, it allows for complete creative freedom—no pottery wheel needed.
It’s perfect for those who want a slower, more intuitive way to create. But what many people don’t realise is that handbuilding also fosters a more communal studio environment. Because it doesn’t require constant focus or spinning machinery, you’re free to chat, share ideas, and connect with others as you work. It’s ideal for those who value creativity and connection.
You might love handbuilding if you:
- Prefer a relaxed, tactile process
- Want to create sculptural or textural pieces like vases, platters, or candle holders
- Enjoy working in a social, collaborative setting
- Are looking for a beginner pottery class in Brisbane with a more creative, less technical focus
At Grace Ellen, our handbuilding workshops invite you to slow down and explore clay in an open, supportive atmosphere—perfect for both solo creatives and groups of friends.
Wheel Throwing: Meditative, Focused & Functional
Wheel throwing is all about rhythm and precision. Using a spinning pottery wheel, you’ll learn how to centre the clay and pull it into symmetrical forms like mugs, bowls, and pourers.
While the process can feel a bit technical at first, it’s deeply satisfying once you find your flow. That said, wheel throwing often requires more individual focus—you’ll be physically centred at your wheel, quietly working in sync with the clay and motion. It’s wonderfully meditative, and many students find it grounding and immersive.
Wheel throwing might be for you if you:
- Love repetition and working towards precision
- Are interested in creating everyday functional pieces
- Enjoy solo focus and hands-on learning
- Want to try a wheel throwing course in Brisbane with supportive guidance
We keep our pottery wheel classes small to ensure plenty of one-on-one support, whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your technique.
Still Not Sure? Try Both.
You don’t need to choose just one—many of our students explore both styles and find they love switching between them.
Our 4-week wheel throwing course and handbuilding pottery classes are designed for beginners, and taught in a calm, sunlit studio tucked into the heart of Bulimba.
Each class is more than just a skill—it's a chance to reconnect with your creativity, work with intention, and make something meaningful with your hands.
Join Us at Grace Ellen Ceramics in Bulimba
Whether you’re searching for pottery classes in Brisbane, dreaming of making your own mug, or simply want to try something new, our studio is a welcoming space to start.
View upcoming classes and book your spot: Join Now
We can't wait to welcome you into our little clay community.