The coil technique involves shaping pieces by layering hand-rolled coils of clay, combining creativity and precision. The white, semi-refractory clay used allows for the creation of solid and durable vases, while highlighting textures and finishes—whether smooth, polished, or rough—for a unique aesthetic and tactile result.

Upon completion of the training, the trainee will be able to:

• Create a vase by hand, without using an electric potter's wheel
• Recognize two construction methods: a traditional method and one with an inverted base
• Create a technically and structurally sound object, paying particular attention to thickness, and an aesthetically balanced one, with geometric control of curves and contours
• Explore surface treatments using tools and materials designed to give texture and character to the finished objects
• Use engobes and colored clays to obtain a finished object without resorting to other processes, such as glazing

The coil method is one of the oldest and most essential techniques in ceramics. It consists of shaping pieces by layering hand-rolled coils of clay, then gradually assembling them to create an object. This method, both manual and intuitive, combines creative freedom with precise control of volume and structure.

The use of white semi-refractory clay brings numerous advantages to this approach. Its plasticity and heat resistance make it an ideal material for creating solid, durable, and technically accomplished vases. Furthermore, its white color particularly highlights textures and finishes, whether smooth, polished, or intentionally rough, thus offering a unique visual and tactile experience.

Schedule

Day 1

Morning

• Presentation of the preparation of the building elements, the coils, from a block of white semi-refractory clay, and their use for shaping
• Creation of the coils by the participants
• Beginning of the construction of the first vase using the inverted base method

Afternoon

• Continuation of the construction work by the participants
• Individual guidance by Lara De Sio

Day 2

Morning

• Continuation of the construction and review of the work by the instructor
• Preparation of new coils

Afternoon

• If the base of the first Once the object is finished, allow it to stabilize by drying slightly.

  Then begin construction of the second vase using the traditional method (from the base to the neck).

  Day 3
  Morning

  Continue construction of the second vase.

  Individual follow-up.

  Afternoon

  Return to the first vase: turn the base upside down and continue construction until it is complete.

  Place the vase in a plastic bag to prevent it from drying out completely.

  Prepare new coils of clay.

  Day 4
  Morning

  Return to the second vase and continue work until it is finished.

  Afternoon

  Begin finishing the first vase. Work on thickness and surface treatment, with a choice between a smooth or textured finish.

  Day 5
  Morning

  Finishing the second vase, paying attention to the thickness and tactile quality of the surface, according to the desired finish.

  Afternoon

  Application of engobes and colored clays to achieve the final chromatic tone of the two completed pieces.

  Tidying up the workshop.

  Note: The pieces can only be fired after complete drying. A possible second firing using the Naked Raku method may be considered with the management, as it cannot be carried out in the Venetian lagoon.

• Classroom, multipurpose room, workshops with professional equipment
• Materials provided
• Individual and collaborative work
• Workshop sessions
• Active participation and experimentation by participants are encouraged

• Group and individualized monitoring of work, regular check-ins
• Self-assessment of technical skills
• Group presentation
• Attendance sheet for each half-day
• Certificate of completion issued by Campus MaNa