In-person course
in PRESTATYN Maker & location details

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Plaster mould making for slip cast ceramics with Ed Bentley

Assisting the students at Hereford College Of Art

Plaster Models of a Tableware Range

Plaster Modelling of a Cup Handle

Jug model and mould

Vase six-part mould

Carafe mould

Model and Mould

Plaster Mould of a Handbuilt clay Vase

Collection of Moulds Ready for Slip Casting

Glasgow School of Art

Happy Guests!

Annual Potclays Course

Plaster Models

Plaster Sledging

Description

*My specialist tuition is offered ‘on demand’ rather than on pre-arranged dates* Have your ceramic shape ideas transformed from sketches/photos into plaster models and moulds ready for slip casting. You will be taken through this in-depth product development process with expert guidance. Come and learn how to turn plaster shapes on a lathe, power whirler, carve plaster shapes, handles, spouts by hand, work on surfaces with various techniques and then make moulds of these shapes for slip casting at home. You will be able to access over 35 years experience of a professional ceramic shape designer, product developer and educator. I assist all makers with their design ideas and small batch ceramic production projects. From simple drop-out moulds, to more complicated multi-part moulds, every skill and process is covered to industrial standards. Your tuition will be tailored to your exact individual needs. The day always begins with a cuppa and a chat about your project and the best way forward outlined. The fee per day for one-to-one tuition with me is £300 and available for as many days as your project requires, or your budget allows. I'm very flexible on potential tuition dates, so please get in touch with me to arrange the time required to complete your particular project. I assist industrial designers, craft potters, students or indeed anyone with a passion for ceramics who wish to develop their skills further. All skill levels are made welcome. You may have a large order to fulfil and wish to speed up the making process by casting from plaster moulds, or simply be interested in learning more about industrial methods of ceramic production. In a very friendly, relaxed and informal atmosphere, your project will take shape before your very eyes! All guests are very welcome to visit my studio, regardless of current skill level and background. From hobbyists with a passion for pottery, to professionals who wish to expand their knowledge, I cater for anyone wishing to use plaster moulds to replicate ceramic shapes. All guests go home with moulds ready to use, once they have been fully dried out. I cover all the following skills in depth: • Concept sketching and shape designing • Technical/working drawings • Tableware, giftware and figurine shape modelling/carving in clay and plaster • Lathe and bench whirler plaster turning for circular shapes • Plaster sledging/profiling with a metal tool and template for irregular/asymmetric shapes • Teapot, sugar and cream jug handle and spout modelling • Sprig moulding and relief plaster modelling for surface decoration • Jigger/jolley moulding for machine plate and bowl production • Plaster mould making (from simple drop-out to multi-part moulds) You are welcome to bring a current project with you or start something new with me. Some guests bring along an existing item (such as a found object, existing glazed ceramic shape or wheel-thrown or hand built leather-hard pot) that they wish to make moulds from. I'm also available to travel and deliver mould making tuition in your own workshop anywhere in the UK, Europe and worldwide. If you don't require the use of my plaster turning lathe or bench whirler, I can bring a selection of tools and specialist equipment with me to wherever you’re located.

What's included in the price?

Use of specialist tools, equipment and materials. If booking more than one day of tuition, I can recommend local accommodation options. Complimentary transport can be arranged to and from your accommodation.

Duration

1 day

Cancellation policy

Easy - Cancellation and a full refund can be obtained up to 2 weeks before the course starts

Maker

Ed Bentley, Ceramic Artist, Designer and Tutor

with Craft Courses since 2013

Message the tutor

For over thirty five years Ed Bentley has worked within the global ceramic tableware and giftware industries as a shape designer and product developer. He offers expert tuition in plaster modelling and mould making for slip cast ceramics. Ed specialises in taking a concept from a sketch through to a final piece, using his knowledge to develop designs that are both original and easy to produce. He works from his own studio or on-site anywhere worldwide. His clients include The Royal Collection, H.E Smith Tiles Ltd, Chris Dyson Architects, Suzie Hoodless London, The Portland House Project, BCB Ceramics biannual, Lenox China USA, Queensberry Hunt and Steelite International. He has also worked closely with artists/designers Paul Scott, Kit Anderson, Layla Khoo, Ian McIntyre, Tony Laverick, Sasha Wardell and Sue Pryke.

Suitable for

Adults
Seniors
Teenagers
Wheelchair users
Hearing impaired
Vision impaired
Limited mobility
Learning difficulties (SEN)
Long term / weekly / monthly
Public transport
Hen dos
Advanced/pro level
Corporate days out & team building
School holiday workshops & activities
Suitable for all abilities
Parking provided
Suitable for beginners
Daytime (weekdays)
Tutor can travel
Engagement, birthdays & anniversaries
Weekends
Stag dos
Intermediate level

What does this mean?

Message the tutor

Venue

Seafield, Llanasa Road, Gronant, PRESTATYN, Clwyd, LL19 9TF

Reviews

All maker's reviews

9 Oct 24'

Vera reviewed: Plaster mould making for slip cast ceramics with Ed Bentley

"I feel very fortunate to have attended a 5-day workshop on plaster for models and moulds in my home country (BE), led by the brilliant Ed Bentley. The main focus was on sledging, a technique that, to my knowledge, is not commonly taught here—except perhaps in construction work. We were a very demanding group, each with our own project, but Ed navigated this masterfully, seamlessly switching between students. Every step was explained clearly, with a touch of British humour. As non-native English speakers, we found Ed perfectly understandable (though communicating the other way around may have been more of a challenge!). We all managed to create several models and moulds by the end. Some of us also had the chance to try out the lathe and the whirler, though sledging remained the central topic. It's worth noting that Ed was teaching outside of his own studio, without his usual materials or even the plaster he was used to. Yet, as participants, we hardly noticed this. Throughout the workshop, Ed remained good-humoured, pleasant, and fun. It was an incredibly rewarding experience, both in terms of technical learning and the human connections we made. I will definitely sign up again if Ed crosses the channel once more!"

15 Jul 24'

Kayt Hughes reviewed: Plaster mould making for slip cast ceramics with Ed Bentley

"I spent 4 days with Ed making 2 models and 2 moulds. I already had some knowledge about mould making but Ed taught me really professional processes and I learned a number of new techniques, including using the lathe, which will hugely elevate the moulds I make. Ed is super friendly and takes every step at the pace of the learner, with lots of photos and opportunities to ask questions, meaning the knowledge can be transferred beyond the workshops back in your own studio. I would recommend these sessions to anyone! "

23 Jun 24'

Lisa S reviewed: Plaster mould making for slip cast ceramics with Ed Bentley

"I spent a day with Ed in his studio at the Spode works making a model and a mould for my current art project. His tuition was excellent and very thorough and even though I have some prior knowledge I learned an incredible amount about the nuances of this very skilled process. I brought away a beautiful model and mould so I can now slip cast with some excellent well informed background knowledge. I would recommend to all other makers and will return for some future projects. "

1 Apr 24'

Polly Taylor reviewed: Plaster mould making for slip cast ceramics with Ed Bentley

"I am doing research into setting up a pottery abroad and I went to Ed to get more of an idea of what was involved in creating moulds for slipware. I had a great day learning so much in Ed's studio - all very relaxed and Ed was very patient explaining the steps on how to go about it and gave me great tips and pointers, with lots of examples on his shelves to illustrate what he meant. We turned a small bowl out of plaster on the lathe as the first part of the mould- making process. If only I had more days to hand to spend with Ed - I will certainly be back once I have got things up and running. I can highly recommend this course. "

12 Dec 23'

Charlotte Dawson reviewed: Plaster mould making for slip cast ceramics with Ed Bentley

"In total I spent 10 days working with Ed in his studio in Stoke on Trent, Over the course of 3 months. Together we produced, 1 large sculpture mould and 6 smaller scale moulds for hand sized sculptures. Between tuition dates I was able to contact Ed to ask for advice and always looked forward to returning to commence our next sessions. Ed is an excellent teacher and none of the stages felt rushed, he provided us with plenty of time to take each stage at the pace required to learn, encouraged me to take pictures at every stage and had no issue answering any questions I had about the process we were learning or other slip casting processes. I now feel I could successfully produce slip casting moulds independently, but could also always attend some top up session for more difficult shapes. The moulds we produced together are to an incredible standard and really beautifully finished. Ed is definitely worth every penny! "

28 Jun 23'

Caz Hildebrand reviewed: Plaster mould making for slip cast ceramics with Ed Bentley

"I was very fortunate to have the opportunity to do a course on mould making with Ed Bentley. It was such an invaluable experience. I learnt so much, felt inspired and encouraged to develop more complex moulds and tackle challenging forms. Ed is an excellent teacher, most generous in sharing his vast knowledge, very positive and supportive and interested in helping you find the best techniques for your practice. He is also a kind and thoughtful host. I can't wait to go back and learn more. "

23 May 23'

Cathy Dickinson reviewed: Plaster mould making for slip cast ceramics with Ed Bentley

"I spent 3 fabulous days with Ed creating plaster moulds for my sculptures. It was absolutely brilliant being immersed in creativity and learning so much from the plaster mould master! Not only is Ed a very patient, knowledgeable and amazing teacher but he’s also a truly lovely person. "

22 Apr 23'

Leora Honeyman reviewed: Plaster mould making for slip cast ceramics with Ed Bentley

"I had an excellent experience working with Ed to learn sledging skills. We produced a large form and I am very grateful to be able to learn from someone with Ed's level of skill. He was generous with his knowledge and very welcoming. I had a great time - a pleasure all round."

14 Feb 23'

Helen Felcey reviewed: Plaster mould making for slip cast ceramics with Ed Bentley

"I had a fantastic day working with Ed and would highly recommend Ed's craft courses. Working to produce a model with Ed was a brilliant learning experience and of course, resulted in a beautiful model (a bowl in my case), crafted to a standard which is only achieved after years and years of experience! It was also a thoroughly enjoyable day – you feel at home in no time working in Ed's studio. I'm looking forward to returning and truly value the fact that I'm still able to work in a very hands–on fashion with someone in this way. Ed is a real master craftsman – a rare individual! "

12 Jan 23'

Liz reviewed: Plaster mould making for slip cast ceramics with Ed Bentley

"I had a great time working with Ed in his studio. I brought quite a complex shape with me thinking that we would need to rebuild something similar together, but we got to work straight away using the piece that I had brought along. Ed's calm and skilful approach to mould-making meant that we successfully made a mould from this object and I feel much more confident about attempting the same myself in the future. I would thoroughly recommend working with Ed on any of your plaster needs! "

23 Nov 22'

Katie Timson reviewed: Plaster mould making for slip cast ceramics with Ed Bentley

"I thoroughly enjoyed the day I spent with Ed in his studio. He was instantly warm and welcoming and with a lot of care and patience, managed to find a mould-making solution to a problem that I’d thought for several years may be unsolvable. I was able to take plenty of notes, photos and videos of various parts of the mould-making process to help me make a more moulds at home and there were lots of tips along the way. Ed is a lovely teacher and I’d highly recommend him for mould-making tuition and expertise. I only wish I’d got in touch sooner! "

30 Sep 22'

Pris M reviewed: Plaster mould making for slip cast ceramics with Ed Bentley

"I booked a 10 day course with Ed as I wanted to refine my mould making techniques. I gained invaluable knowledge and skills to help me with my journey in a professional and personal capacity. During my time, we critiqued drawings and discussed ideas, refining them into elegant forms. These discussions were extremely beneficial as I was able to resolve design issues with someone who has worked in industry. Ed is an incredible being. He is passionate, knowledgeable and talented. Everyday day was met with a smile and a positive attitude. Graceful and delicate in his approach to working, Ed’s manner put me at ease and filled the studio with a relaxing vibe. The workshop is amazing, the setup is smart, full of creativity and has a lovely atmosphere where you can immerse yourself in the creative process. Overall, it has been an unforgettable and invaluable experience. I would 100% recommend Ed for tuition!"

7 Jul 22'

Sarah Brabbin reviewed: Plaster mould making for slip cast ceramics with Ed Bentley

"Ed, a thoroughly nice chap showed me how to create a plaster mould from one of the little ceramic birds I had made. Although a simple 2-part mould, it wasn’t as daunting and technical as I had imagined it would be, it all made perfect sense and I left with a sense that I could give it a good go on my own back at the workshop."

27 Jun 22'

Heather Elvidge reviewed: Plaster mould making for slip cast ceramics with Ed Bentley

"I have recently spent an absolutely brilliant couple of days making a 4 part mould for one of my designs with the exceptionally talented Ed at his Spode Studio. Ed was incredibly generous with both his time and his wealth of knowledge and he made the whole process, from advising small adjustments to my design (to make it more ‘mould friendly’!) to sharing his wealth of experience when making the mould itself. Ed was wonderful company with a very warm and supportive approach to teaching. I felt like I learned an enormous amount in a relatively short space of time. My mind is now buzzing with all the potential ceramic projects that could be aided with the use of moulds and I am very much hoping to return to Spode to get more help from the lovely Ed! I highly recommend this course to anyone who wants to learn or experiment further with mould making, and there would be no better person to teach you. Thanks Ed ☺️"

2 Jun 22'

Jemma Millen Ceramics reviewed: Plaster mould making for slip cast ceramics with Ed Bentley

"I had a fantastic 3 days with the brilliant master that is Ed, learning everything there is to know about mould making and plaster. Ed is incredibly generous with his time, skill sharing and patience. I came away feeling miles more confident in mould making/plaster work, as well as motivated to get back to my own studio to give it all a go by myself - so I absolutely recommend this course to anyone at any level interested in learning correct making practices for mould making and plaster work. I only wish he could figure out how to copy himself to also share a studio with me as I'll definitely miss our chats! I stayed at the Pot Bank hotel too recommended by Ed, as it's situated on the Spode Works site where his studio is based. It took all the travel stress away as I'm a maker based in Northern Ireland, so not too familiar with the area in Stoke."

9 May 22'

Sarah shorthouse reviewed: Plaster mould making for slip cast ceramics with Ed Bentley

"I was lucky enough to have a one day mould making course with Ed. It was brilliantly taught and I came away knowing how to make spriggs and the pitfalls to avoid. Ed is a truly gifted teacher and so generous with his time and sharing of his amazing knowledge. Thank you."

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