Frequently Asked
Questions

Below you'll find answers to the most frequently asked questions. If you still have questions, please feel free to contact us at info@lesfaiseurs.ca

I've never made pottery, where do I start?

The introduction to wheel throwing is ideal for beginners. In 2.5 hours, you'll learn the basics of throwing and test several pieces. The workshop includes an explanation of the process, a demonstration, and practical tests on the lathe, with the guidance of the instructor. You can then choose your favorite piece and pick it up a few weeks later.

The Introduction to handbuilding is recommended for beginners who enjoy working with clay by hand. In 3 hours, you'll discover techniques such as slab casting and pinched potting, and be able to personalize your two pieces with colored underglazes. Unlike the Introduction to Wheel Throwing course, which allows you to create cylindrical shapes, the Introduction to Clay Making course allows you to explore other aspects of ceramics in a more tactile and manual way.

If you can't decide between these two beginner options, we have the perfect solution: the Creative Day ! This option allows you to discover both throwing and shaping during a day divided into two 2.5-hour blocks of classes. This will give you an overview of ceramics work and you can then delve deeper into the process you preferred, for example, with a session.

How does a pottery workshop take place?

Most of our classes include a theoretical part with explanations from the teacher, followed by a time spent kneading the clay you will use during your class. Afterward, your teacher will give you a demonstration depending on the technique taught: wheel, shaping, glazing, etc. You will then have time dedicated to practicing or making your project. And as in any workshop, there will be a clean-up time!

What should I plan for my workshop?

When working with clay, it's important to keep your nails short and avoid wearing accessories to avoid damaging your pieces! We also recommend wearing workshop-appropriate clothing, opting for casual, messy clothes and comfortable shoes. Your aprons are welcome, but we'll also have them available.

Which course should I choose after taking an introductory pottery course?

If you have fallen in love with pottery and want to consolidate your learning, we recommend continuing with a 4, 6 or 8 week session .

If you don't want to commit to several weeks, the Level 2 introductory course is ideal because it will allow you to practice the basics established in the first course with the help of a teacher. The intensive weekend option could also interest you because in addition to offering more practice on the wheel, you will have the opportunity to learn shaping techniques.

If you're looking to continue expanding your ceramics education, the Introduction to handbuilding is a great way to follow up. It allows you to develop new skills by exploring hand-crafted techniques while creating custom pieces.

What is the difference between a 4, 6 or 8 week session?

The 4-week session is ideal for discovering all the steps involved in creating a piece, in a quick version. It's considered a longer introduction; you'll complete each step once. It's ideal for those short on time or those who want to try things out without committing too long.

The 6-week session allows you to explore more techniques, such as handles and decorations, to create a collection of pieces. You will have the opportunity to follow your pieces in the process by seeing the stages of throwing and turning over several classes.

The 8-week session is suitable for both beginners and more advanced students, offering more time to perfect different techniques and work on personal projects. If you've been hooked on ceramics and know you want to pursue your passion, this is the session to take to give yourself more time and gain experience!

Is it necessary to take an initiation before registering for a pottery session?

Our sessions are perfectly suited to beginners. It is therefore not mandatory to take an introductory course before starting a session. We recommend taking an introductory course or a creative day beforehand in case you are unsure of the technique you wish to pursue.

What is the difference between the studio, the Grand Atelier and the Salle 3?

These names correspond to our various classrooms. Aside from their specific features, they are each equipped with the same number of wheels and our various tools. The studio is the classroom adjacent to the café area. The Grand Atelier and Room 3 correspond to the rooms in our new location located two doors down at 6552 Saint-Laurent.

Which course should I choose after completing a beginner session?

If you completed a 4- or 6-week session, we suggest continuing with an 8-week session. Be aware that many students repeat the beginner sessions more than once.

Afterward, we recommend our free project course sessions. Over 6 or 8 weeks, you'll be able to improve your technique and complete a personal project with the guidance of your instructor.

When you are comfortable with shooting and ready to take on new challenges and acquire new knowledge, opt for an advanced session with the intermediate level, or even the high volume session.

What are the requirements to become a member?

To become a member, you must have completed at least two session courses, or approximately fifty hours of practice. The idea is to be independent in your ceramics practice in order to use our spaces, as there is no supervision or support during member-only sessions.

Can children or teenagers take classes?

Absolutely, at Les Faiseurs, we have dedicated certain courses to younger children. This is the case of the parent-child course, a 2-hour workshop that allows an adult and a child (8 to 12 years old) to discover throwing. Ceramic decoration is also suitable; this activity takes place in the café area and allows for greater flexibility.

For teenagers aged 13 and over, it is possible to join regular classes.

I would like to offer a pottery class but I don't know which one to choose?

In this case, the ideal is to let the person choose which course they want to take. With our gift card options, simply select an amount according to your budget. The person will then be able to choose not only the type of course, such as an introduction to turning or shaping, but they will also have the option to book a date according to their availability.

Our gift card applies to much more than just pottery classes: it can be used at the café for a snack or drink and even on the current store, allowing you to offer a complete experience to a loved one.

Do you sell pottery supplies?

It's now possible to purchase pottery equipment from Les Faiseurs! Our selection includes a variety of tools such as roughing stones and turning wheels, as well as underglazes, aprons, and clay blocks. However, we don't sell large equipment on site. Come discover the selection in store!

What type of course is suitable for a large group?

Our courses have a capacity of 8 participants, corresponding to our 8 rounds available in the three classrooms. If you are 8 or fewer, it is therefore possible to reserve the maximum number of places and even organize your own event by privatizing a classroom. For larger groups, we are also able to organize a private initiation by reserving several classrooms for a total of up to 24 participants.

Ceramic painting is also a good option for larger groups; you can choose one of the 24 available seats in the café area. This isn't a class, but a creative activity that involves decorating ceramic pieces made by local ceramists.

You can contact us by email at any time, we will be happy to help you set up your event.