We spotted a clay making workshop inspired by Jellycats and I knew my teen would enjoy it – remember that Jelly Cat inspired birthday cake we made last year? Jellycat toys are so appealing with their soft textures, quirky designs and unique personalities. They are both visually appealing and collectible, so it is easy to see why teens enjoy curating their collections and sharing them online. I knew this would be a fun workshop and also a great way to spend time together.

Mini Jellycat Inspired Clay Workshop

Taking place in our local pottery cafe, Wick and Ceramic, the workshop took place over two different evenings. The first evening was to make our own Jellycat inspired creations; the second was to return and paint them after the first firing. We were given lots of examples from the Jellycat Amuseables range (the ones with smiles and feet!).

I followed the suggested creations and made a flower, a mug of tea and a star. The teen did her own thing, creating a mini birthday cake, Bartholomew Bear and a dinosaur. The clay was weighed out for us so it was easy to ensure each mini make was the same size.

We spent 2 hours creating our makes before leaving them to be fired. Our second session involved painting our models from a huge selection of paints.

The time passed quickly but we had a lot of fun together, discussing what we were making and decorating. We left out mini makes to dry before they received another firing in the kiln and a lovely coat of glaze.

We were so happy to go and pick up our makes a few weeks later. They turned out even better than we expected, and no little bits had fallen off in the process!

Enrolling your teen in a clay workshop can be a fantastic decision!

Fosters creativity and self-expression – Pottery offers teens a unique medium to express themselves artistically. Whether they’re beginners or have some experience, working with clay allows them to experiment, working with clay allows them to experiment with shapes, textures, and glazes, encouraging personal creativity and innovation.

Provides stress relief and mindfulness – The tactile nature of clay and the focus required during pottery can be incredibly calming. It’s often likened to a form of meditation, helping to reduce stress and promote mindfulness. This therapeutic aspect can be especially beneficial for teens navigating the pressures of school and social life.

Enhances focus and fine motor skills – Pottery demands attention to detail and precision, which can improve concentration and fine motor skills. These benefits extend beyond the studio, positively impacting other areas of life too.

Builds confidence and a sense of achievement – Completing a project provides a tangible sense of accomplishment. The process of creating something from start to finish can boost self-esteem and confidence.

Encourages social interaction – Group classes offer a supportive environment where you can meet new people, collaborate, and share experiences. This social aspect can help build friendships and a sense of community.

A break from screens – Engaging in a hands-on activity like pottery provides a healthy break from screens, allowing teens to develop new skills and hobbies in an offline setting.

Let me know if you’ve tried a clay class before.