Family Ceramics Workshop | Create Pottery Together at Matérica

Family ceramics workshop in Porto at Oficina Matérica, a creative author’s space dedicated to hands-on making and the development of artistic skills through genuine material engagement. Led by Marco, creative director and manager of Matérica, this session invites families to discover ceramic fundamentals side by side, parents and children working together in a bright and welcoming studio where collaboration, tactile exploration and the simple pleasure of making something together are the whole point. No prior experience needed for any age.

The workshop offers two distinct pathways to suit different family interests and age ranges. The clay modelling pathway teaches hand building techniques including pinching, coiling and slab construction to create functional plates, bowls or mugs from raw clay. The ceramic painting pathway uses brushes, sponges and decorative tools to apply colourful underglazes and glazes to pre-fired bisqueware pieces, creating personalised designs that fuse permanently during kiln firing. Families choose the approach that suits them best or combine both across the session. All finished pieces receive professional kiln firing and are available for collection after the firing cycle completes, extending the experience into a second moment of anticipation and celebration when the transformed pottery is finally ready.

What you’ll learn

🏺 Hand building techniques including pinching, coiling and slab construction for the clay modelling pathway

🏺 How to shape functional plates, bowls and mugs from raw clay using accessible methods

🏺 Underglaze and glaze application techniques for the ceramic painting pathway

🏺 Decorative approaches using brushes, sponges and tools to create personalised designs

🏺 How kiln firing transforms raw clay and painted bisqueware into permanent functional ceramics

What’s included

🎨 Choice of clay modelling or ceramic painting pathway

🎨 All materials including clay or pre-fired pieces, glazes, underglazes and tools

🎨 Full guidance from Marco throughout the session adapted for all ages and skill levels

🎨 Professional kiln firing of all finished pieces

🎨 Collection of your finished functional ceramics after firing

What your family leaves with

Functional pottery, a plate, bowl or mug, made and decorated together, fired and ready to use at home as a daily reminder of an afternoon spent making something that actually lasts.

I am Marco, creative director and manager of Oficina Matérica in Porto. Matérica is an author’s space dedicated to the presentation and production of handmade artistic objects and the development of creative workshops for children and adults, always involving diverse raw materials, processes and techniques rooted in the plastic arts. All sessions are managed by me directly, with broad and varied experience in the creation, production and development of creative pedagogical experiences. Whenever possible we work in partnership with specialist artists and technicians who collaborate on the thematic diversification of our activities.

Suitable for all ages and all skill levels. No prior ceramics experience needed. Professional kiln firing included with collection arranged after firing completes.