Yixing Teapot

Service Description

Must have prior hand-building experience to enroll in workshop. This workshop is designed for tea lovers and ceramics enthusiasts who want to learn how to create handbuilt teapots using the traditional crafting techniques of Yixing teapots. We will be using any available local clays. The workshop will begin with the history and significance of Yixing teapots and the methods and processes involved in creating these unique and functional objects. Next, participants will learn about the various stages of developing a teapot, including paddling, layering, trimming, and firing. Yixing teapots are all hand-made rather than thrown on the wheel. The clay for the Yixing teapots is first pounded with a heavy wooden mallet into a slab, then one of three techniques are used to shape the clay into pots: pre-molded for segmented teapots, paddled for round teapots, and the slab technique for square teapots. You will learn how to construct the Round Tea Pot, which is generally considered a feminine design. The open structure is excellent for using tightly packed oolong teas like Monkey Picked because the space allows for the whole opening of the leaves. Throughout the workshop, participants will have the opportunity to practice each of these techniques and create their own Yixing teapot under the guidance and support of the Instructor. By the end of the workshop, participants will have gained a deeper understanding of Yixing teapots and the techniques involved in their creation. In addition, they will leave with their own handcrafted Yixing teapot and a newfound appreciation for the beauty and function of these unique objects. Instructor will provide all the specialty tools, so students only need to bring essential hand-building tools: needle, scoring, sponge, brush, wood and silicone ribs, modeling tools, ruler, pencil, etc Specialty tools will be available for purchase at workshop for anyone interested. Workshop only includes bisque fire. Workshop is from 10am-4pm with a 1 hour lunch break, we have a refrigerator at studio for packed lunches. About the Instructor: Biliana Popova has over 20 years of teaching experience. She took a workshop with Yixing masters at AMOCA / American Museum of Ceramic Art in Pomona, California, in 2012 and has taught and perfected the technique over the last ten years. **Note: No member discounts for this workshop***

Contact Details

• 912 West Isabel Street, Burbank, CA, USA

  + 323-284-8084

  info@claytivitypottery.com