Pottery Painting 101: How to Use Underglaze, Slip, and Glaze to Create Masterpieces

Looking for a new creative hobby in Manchester? Whether you’ve just finished a pottery throwing taster session or you’re a seasoned maker, learning how to decorate your work is where the magic really happens.

When you choose a pottery school, you aren’t just renting a wheel; you are investing in a lineage of craft. At 7 Spot Pottery, we believe that to teach well, one must never stop learning.

What sets us apart from your average "sip and paint" studio? It’s the fact that we are trained teachers first and practicing ceramic artists always. Here is a look at the philosophy and the world-class expertise that fuels our Manchester studio.

Most potters start their journey by dipping their work into a bucket of "mystery liquid" and hoping for the best. But if you’ve ever been disappointed by a "drab" brown when you expected a "vibrant" blue, it’s time to look under the hood.

At 7 Spot Pottery, we are proud to host the only comprehensive Glaze Chemistry Workshop in the North West. While many studios focus purely on form, we empower you to master the finish.

Ready to explore slip decoration in the studio?
Join one of our upcoming workshops or book a course at 7 Spot Pottery. We'll help you dive into these techniques, try new tools, and build confidence with clay — one slip at a time.

Painting pottery is fun — but making it from scratch? That’s where the magic happens. There’s a world of difference between decorating a ready-made mug and actually forming it with your own hands. Pottery making is slower, messier, more honest — and far more rewarding. You don’t just walk away with a pretty object. You walk away with a skill, a deeper connection to yourself, and something that’s truly yours.

Feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or creatively stuck? Pottery classes offer a powerful reset. Reconnect with your hands, embrace imperfection, and find calm in clay.

Not all great pottery tools come with a price tag. Discover which tools are worth the splurge (hello, Mudtools) — and how to DIY the rest without compromising quality.

Feeling anxious, low, or disconnected? Discover how pottery classes offer calm, connection, and confidence — no art skills needed, just a willingness to try.

From absolute beginners to experienced makers, our Manchester pottery classes offer expert guidance, creative freedom, and a supportive space to grow your skills.