Clay Programming Expands with Two Fall Series at the Makerspace at 16 State

Clay programming is taking shape at the Makerspace at 16 State, and this fall, there will be even more room to grow.

Following the launch of Summer of Clay, interest in hands-on ceramics programming has continued to build. We are responding by expanding the fall schedule from one flexible workshop series to two distinct six-week offerings, giving participants the opportunity to begin working with clay or take their skills further.

Both series will be led by Jade Thayer and begin in late September.

Handbuilding I: Six Weeks, Six Projects

Handbuilding I runs Wednesdays from September 23 through October 28, from 5:30 to 8 p.m.

Designed for beginners and returning makers alike, the series introduces a different technique and project each week. Participants will create bowls, plates, garden sculptures, mugs, baskets and bud vases while building confidence with clay and exploring their own creative style.

The flexible format allows participants to register for the complete six-week series or choose individual workshops based on the projects that interest them and the dates that work for their schedules.

Handbuilding I is open to ages 12 and up, all experience levels are welcome and materials are included.

The complete six-week series is available for $275 through September 10. After that date, registration increases to $300. Individual workshops are also available for $60 each.

Handbuilding II: Functional Tableware

For makers ready to dig a little deeper, Handbuilding II: Functional Tableware introduces a more advanced, project-focused experience.

The six-week cohort meets Tuesdays from September 22 through October 27, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Participants will move through the series with the same group, giving them more time to refine their techniques, develop their creative process and design a custom set of functional tableware.

Unlike Handbuilding I, this offering is structured as a complete six-week cohort rather than a collection of individual workshops. Some experience with clay is helpful, but it is not required. Participants will still have plenty of creative freedom as they explore design, practice and the process of turning individual pieces into a cohesive collection.

Registration for the complete Handbuilding II cohort is $315 through September 10 and will increase to $340 after the introductory pricing period.

Building a Lasting Clay Program in Downtown Ellsworth

Offering two fall series marks another step forward for creative programming at the Makerspace at 16 State.

Handbuilding I preserves the welcoming and flexible format that gives new makers an approachable place to begin. Handbuilding II creates a pathway for participants who want more time, consistency and room to develop their skills. Together, the two offerings allow us to serve a wider range of makers while continuing to grow the program alongside community interest.

This expansion is part of our broader work to establish the Makerspace as a downtown destination for making, learning, gathering and creative skill-building. Each new offering helps us create more consistent activity at 16 State Street, provide paid teaching opportunities for artists and give community members more ways to connect through the arts.

Early registration is encouraged and helps ensure each six-week offering can move forward as scheduled.

Learn more about both fall clay series and register at www.makerspaceat16state.org/creative-programming.