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Production throwing with Sofie Goethals

Production throwing with Sofie Goethals

In this course, you will learn how to throw functional pottery efficiently and consistently in series. You will develop muscle memory and perform only the essential movements to build speed when throwing sets of cups, bowls, plates and mugs. By weighing and measuring accurately and practising precise throwing techniques, you will soon be creating beautiful sets of functional ware.

Price: €

350

Level:

Intermediate

9 modules, 59 lessons

Dutch spoken, English subtitles

Master the art of production throwing on the potter’s wheel

Zelf servies maken: een tas afdraaien op de draaischijf

Are you ready to take your pottery skills to the next level and learn how to make identical pieces in a series? Maybe you’ve always wanted to create a beautiful, uniform set of dinnerware – plates, bowls, mugs and cups that complement each other perfectly – but you’re not sure how to do it efficiently and consistently. You have some throwing experience, but producing identical forms still feels out of reach.

The challenge? Traditional lessons often fail to focus on refining techniques such as throwing in a series. You spend a lot of time on basic skills, but you miss out on the depth needed to develop precision and speed. Online tutorials often fall short, offering fragments of methodology without a clear structure. The result? You lose focus and become frustrated. What you need is a comprehensive approach to mastering the art of production throwing.

Serie maken: een serie kommetjes van klei voor in de oven te laden

Serie draaien: pastaborden draaien op de draaischijf met Sofie Goethals

With the right guidance and a structured learning method, you can make rapid progress. Production throwing relies on repetition to build muscle memory. It requires practice and patience, but the end result — a table full of uniform, handmade pottery — makes all the effort worthwhile.

Fortunately, your search ends here. In the online course ‘Production throwing with Sofie Goethals’, you will learn how to throw identical pieces step by step. Sofie will show you how to develop muscle memory, perfect your movements and work efficiently to achieve consistent results. With professionally recorded videos, diagrams and practical tips, you’ll have all the tools you need. It’s like having a front-row seat with crystal-clear views of the techniques.

Seriedraaien: tas afdraaien op de draaischijf

Eigen servies maken: demo draaien op de draaischijf door Sofie Goethals

Sofie Goethals is the perfect person to teach you the intricacies of production throwing. She has thrown thousands of plates, cups and bowls that are used every day in restaurants, bars and homes. She explains how to make the clay do exactly what you want and how to efficiently throw uniform series, step by step. The course includes practical tips, detailed visuals and step-by-step instructions to help you create your dream dinnerware set.

And the best part? You can learn at your own pace. There are no fixed lessons or strict deadlines – you have lifetime access to the course. Repeat techniques as often as you like, practise at a time that suits you and watch your progress speed up.

Start today with ‘Production throwing with Sofie Goethals’ and turn your dinnerware dreams into reality!

What's included in the course package?

Immediate and lifetime access: Get instant access to all lessons upon purchase. Learn at your own pace with lifetime access to the material, just like our 500+ satisfied students.
Clear learning method:The course consists of nine modules containing 59 video lessons to guide you through the process step by step. We cover everything you need to know to create beautiful sets of tableware, including bowls, plates, dishes, cups and mugs.
Professional instructional videos: Each technique is filmed in detail to show you exactly how to move your hands and work with the clay. Learn efficiently and effectively, without missing any important details.
Complete lesson notes and summaries : Each module comes with comprehensive notes that summarize the key points. Perfect for quick reference or refreshing your memory!
Practical worksheets: Download and print handy PDFs containing materials lists and step-by-step guides. These documents are designed for easy use in your studio, so you don't need to worry about electronic devices.
Personal support Stuck somewhere? Ask your question and get a quick answer. We add relevant questions and answers to the course so that everyone can benefit from them.
Learn with others: Become part of an active community of potters. Share your work, ask for feedback and find inspiration from fellow students who share your passion.

Who is the instructor?

Sofie Goethals

Sofie is a passionate ceramicist who has been practising her craft full-time since 2021. She specialises in creating unique dinnerware for individuals and businesses, crafting each piece with precision and care. As well as her passion for wheel-throwing uniform sets and glaze chemistry, Sofie enjoys sharing her extensive knowledge through workshops. Her inspiring approach and clear teaching technique make her a valued and in-demand ceramics teacher, whether you are a beginner or an advanced potter.

What our students say

"Everything is explained very clearly and simply! I wish I had taken my first throwing course with Sofie, it would have saved me a lot of struggle..."

Hannelore B.

"This is an excellent course with very clear visuals and lots of new information! Like chuck throwing, small tools for throwing foot rings, etc... Sofie explains everything thoroughly and it's well-structured. I gained most of my ceramics knowledge through the Cursist's online courses, each one a true gem. This one is also of very high quality!"

Karen R.

"Since taking the course, I can finally make identical pots. I can also create variations on the demonstrated pieces. I now have a much better understanding of throwing in series. My plates are now uniform too. It's also great that I can keep coming back to the lessons. You continue to learn new things when you rewatch them."

Véronique D.

"A very interesting course that has helped me throw series more efficiently and effectively. Sofie's explanations are incredibly pleasant, well-filmed, and she clearly explains why you should or shouldn't do certain things."

Angelique V.

What do you need to take this course?

To learn production throwing, you will need your standard throwing equipment. We also throw on bats. The size of the bats and bat system depends on the size of the pots you want to make. As well as the throwing equipment, you will need a measuring gauge. You can purchase one from a pottery supply store or make your own using skewers and a ball of clay.

You can download a handy materials list here, which includes everything you need to get started with production throwing. This list is also available in the course itself.

Here you’ll find a list of pottery supply stores. If you have any questions about materials or shops, we’re happy to help.

Free information session about this course

Want to know what an online course looks like? How video lessons work? Or how Sofie teaches? Sign up for one of our free information sessions and find out.

What will you make after completing this course?

What is covered in the course?

Module 1: Preparation

In the first module, Sofie shares her ten golden tips for throwing in series. Sofie shows you how to speed up your work using the spiral wedging technique, and explains which materials you need for throwing and trimming.
Module 2: A series of cups

You will learn to throw your first form in a series of sleek, tapered mugs (or cups or beakers). Sofie demonstrates how to centre efficiently, pull up and open, and finish. She also shows you how to set up your measuring gauge to begin your series. Finally, you will learn how to trim on a chuck.
Module 3: A series of small bowls

This module is dedicated to creating a series of small bowls with foot rings. Sofie demonstrates how to throw the bowls, achieve a consistent, beautiful curve and create uniform foot rings on all your bowls. Each module includes a real-time demonstration.
Module 4: A series of breakfast bowls

In this module, Sofie demonstrates how she uses bats and secures them to the wheel head with clay to throw a series of breakfast bowls. In this module, you will work with 750 grams of clay to throw an elegant, uniform set of breakfast bowls.
Module 5: A series of dessert plates

This module focuses on plates. Sofie uses her own unique technique to form and finish the rims of the plates. She also provides plenty of tips on making plates without straining your back and shoulders and on creating beautiful foot rings. Absolutely fascinating!
Module 6: A series of large plates

The large plates are the real challenge. In this module, we work with large bats containing 1300 grams of clay per plate. Sofie demonstrates the importance of measuring and continuous checking for achieving a uniform series. She also demonstrates an alternative method of centring larger quantities of clay.
Module 7: A series of pasta plates

In the seventh module, we tackle pasta plates. The heavier the load, the slower the wheel needs to turn. Sofie will demonstrate the entire process, sharing numerous tips along the way.
Module 8: A series of espresso cups off the hump

Throwing espresso cups is best done off the hump. The amount of clay is too small to centre effectively. Sofie shows how to throw in series off the hump and how to make your espresso cups nearly identical.
Module 9: Final steps

In the final module, you will learn how to stack your work in the kiln more efficiently. Sofie demonstrates how she fires cups and plates and attaches handles to mugs.

How does it work?

The course is entirely online. After purchase, you will receive an automatic confirmation email within 15 minutes containing your personal login details. These will give you access to our course platform, where you’ll find all of your purchased online courses.
On the course platform, you will find all the video lessons, as well as accompanying texts, and PDF documents containing overviews, step-by-step plans and lists. You can start learning straight away. There’s no need to be at your computer at specific times, all the material is continuously available.
You can follow the lessons from home with your own materials at your own pace, whenever it suits you. Need a break? Or do you want to watch the lessons again and again? No problem! You have lifetime access to the course. Read about the benefits of an online course Read about the benefits of an online course here.
Don’t have all the necessary tools? Each course includes a detailed list of materials you’ll need. You’ll find a list of pottery supply stores here.
No kiln? No problem. Here you’ll find an extensive list of ceramic studios and individuals worldwide who fire work for others for a fee. You’re sure to find somewhere near you!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take this course as a beginner?
This course is designed for potters who have moved beyond the beginner stage. You should already have a good grasp of basic techniques such as centring, pulling up, opening and shaping the clay, and wish to further refine these skills. There is no need to master large weights – tableware is typically thrown with a maximum of 1.3 kg of clay, and most pieces use much less. This course is ideal for intermediate and advanced potters. Even experienced ceramicists will gain new insights.

If you’re a beginner, we recommend starting with our beginner’s throwing course with Aster Caemaert.
What do I need for this course?
In order to learn how to throw in a series on the potter’s wheel, you will need your standard throwing equipment. We also throw on bats. The size of the bats and bat system depends on the size of the pots you want to make. As well as the throwing equipment, you will need a measuring gauge. You can purchase one from a pottery supply store or make your own using skewers and a ball of clay.

Here you’ll find a list of ceramics shops. If you have any questions about materials or shops, we’re happy to help.
Do I need a kiln to take the course?
In order to preserve your thrown pieces, they need to be fired in a kiln. However, kilns are a significant investment, so there’s no need to purchase one straight away. We’ve compiled a comprehensive list of ceramic studios and individuals who fire work for others for a fee. You’re sure to find somewhere near you!
When does the course start, and how long do I have access?
You can log in and begin the course as soon as you purchase it. You will have lifetime access and can work at your own pace — the course will adapt to your schedule.
How does an online course work in practice?
The course is entirely online. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing your personal login details for the course platform within thirty minutes. There, you will find all the video lessons, as well as the accompanying texts and PDF documents containing overviews, step-by-step plans and lists. You can start learning immediately from home with your own materials at your own pace. Whenever it suits you! Need a break? Or do you want to review the lessons later? No problem — the course will be available to you for life. Read about the benefits of an online course here.
I'm not very good with computers, will I manage?
The online learning platform is both user-friendly and intuitive. You will receive clear emails containing practical instructions on how to use it. Having trouble? Don’t worry! We’re always here to help with any technical queries you may have. Just send us an email!
What if I don't have enough time to watch the lessons?
Don’t worry! You have lifetime access to the full online course. What’s more, you will automatically receive access to all future updates and additions to the course.
Where can I go if I have questions about the course?
You can ask questions about every course on the Cursist platform. We believe it’s important that you receive good guidance throughout your online course, to help you progress smoothly. You can submit your queries via our online form or by email. We add the questions and answers to the course, enabling other students to benefit from them too. You’re also welcome to join the Facebook group to get ideas and feedback from fellow students.
Can you really learn ceramics online?
I had my doubts at first, too. Cursist began as an experiment. The idea for an online video course about ceramics came about during a workshop in 2019. It was quite daring because nothing like it existed yet. I often saw students filming with their mobile phones during workshops, producing shaky video footage and poor-quality audio.

As a professional videographer, I thought, ‘We can do better!’ A few months later, we launched the first Dutch-language online video course in pottery throwing. For the first edition, 95 enthusiastic students signed up, ranging from complete beginners to those with experience of throwing.

After initially focusing on courses for beginners and advanced students, we expanded our offering to include more courses on various themes with different instructors. To date, over 3,000 students have taken one of our online courses. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive: learning ceramics online works!

On this page you will find all frequently asked questions