Next-Level Handles with Naomi Clement

Advanced techniques for handles that are distinctly you

You know how to make a handle. Now let's make it yours.

This 2-hour virtual workshop is for makers who are ready to go beyond a standard pulled handle — and start thinking about handles as a real design opportunity. Whether you've already taken my signature Handle It workshop, you want to learn some new techniques, or you're feeling stuck in a handle rut,  this workshop is for you.

We'll dig into the details that separate an ordinary handle from an extraordinary one: the techniques, the decisions, and the relationship between a handle and the pot it lives on. (Because yes, that relationship matters. A lot.)

In this workshop, you'll learn:

• Hand-built handles, hollow handles, and multi-part handles — plus variations on pulled handles that go beyond the basics

• How to create attachment points that form a smooth, elegant transition from handle to pot — and how to avoid the cracks and shrinkage that haunt us all

• Techniques for backfilling handles to add visual weight and strength

• Handle embellishments — thumb rests, decorative elements, and other ways to make your handles distinctly you

• Larger handles: how to form large, elegantly shaped handles for a basket or teapot

• A fresh perspective on handle placement and the relationship between the handle and the body of the pot

• Ergonomics in relation to the size and shape of the pot — because a beautiful handle that's uncomfortable to hold isn't really a great handle, eh?

• How handles can be more conceptual — and what that even means for your work

PLUS — included bonuses:

• A collection of on-demand videos to get (or refresh) your foundations before the live session: pulling handles 101, handle ergonomics, placement and more

• An on-demand video on forming hollow handles

• A handle inspiration guide to spark your creativity in the studio

"Thank you, Naomi! This was helpful, especially working with smaller pieces and roughly shaping before pulling. Getting the handle position versus shape/volume was a revelation!" — Kim, handle workshop participant

A handle may be a small piece of clay, but it has a big job to do. Handles are where our hands connect directly to those of the maker — a real opportunity to say something new and leave your mark as an artist.

Ready to take your handle-making to the next level?

You'll leave this workshop with fresh techniques, a sharper eye, and enough inspiration to head straight to your studio and make some kick-ass handles of your own.