Sgraffito, which means “to scratch” in Italian, is a decorative pottery technique. Once pottery is leather hard, a colored underglaze or slip is applied to the piece of pottery. The potter then scratches off parts of the layer to create contrasting images, patterns, or textures by revealing the original clay underneath.

In this multi-day workshop, Amy Smoot will lead participants through the entire process of sgraffito. Students will construct a vessel using handbuilding techniques. Once the pieces are built and leather hard, students will use slip or underglaze to paint the entire surface of their piece. Then, using different tools, students will scratch and carve through to create their designs. This workshop is beginner friendly and doesn't require experience to join.