This course introduces the traditional ways of throwing a pot on a Leach Kick Wheel. The Leach Kick, or Treadle Wheel, was developed at the Leach Pottery through the 1920s and 30s. Based on traditional designs, it was eventually reproduced commercially and adopted by potters around the world. The design, and our historic wheels, are still very much used to this day.

Potters of all abilities can gain much from throwing on a Leach Kick wheel: the slower foot-powered pace gives the potter a more intimate understanding of the energy and focus that goes into making pots.

There are four participants on the course with the Tutor using participants’ wheels for demonstrations. This course requires the ability to hop on and off of a kick wheel and to kick with your left leg.

The course covers: 

·       clay preparation: wedging techniques, centering clay on the wheel, throwing basic cylinders then moving on to different forms.

·       turning and finishing, pulling and attaching handles and decorating techniques

Any questions? Please visit out FAQ — The Leach Pottery.  

Terms and conditions

Please be aware, only assistance dogs are allowed in the Learning spaces.  

Our courses are popular, we do our best to add more dates when we can.   
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