Sgraffito and Modern Mishima — A Carving and Surface Design Workshop
Instructor: Sue Sprague
Date: Saturday, March 14th, 2026
Time: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Place: Sue Sprague’s home studio in Prescott, AZ
“Carving and color are what define my work. In this hands-on workshop, I’ll teach two of my favorite surface techniques: sgraffito and modern Mishima.”—Sue Sprague
Sue will begin with a brief overview of both techniques, using examples from her own pottery to demonstrate how each approach influences surface, line, and depth. She will then demonstrate both methods, sharing practical design strategies, carving tips, and problem-solving techniques developed through years of working with clay.
Participants will start by practicing on a leather-hard clay tile using guided design ideas. From there, Sue will lead you as you carve and decorate two leather-hard pieces that you bring to the workshop. There will be ample time to explore and practice both techniques.
This workshop is designed to provide real, usable skills—not just a demonstration. You’ll leave with finished work in progress, a clear understanding of both processes, and the confidence to continue carving and developing your own surface style.
Materials: Two tiles, underglaze and carving tools supplied.
We are asking each participant to bring two, leather-hard pots, either wheel thrown or hand-built, to practice each technique on. The clay body must be at least cone 6.
Limited to 8 participants. A minimum of 6 participants are required for workshop to proceed.
Workshop Cancellation Policy: Full payment due at time of registration. Refund of 50% with cancellation up to 2 weeks prior to the workshop date. No refunds after that date.
Sgraffito and Modern Mishima — A Carving and Surface Design Workshop
Instructor: Sue Sprague
Date: Saturday, March 14th, 2026
Time: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Place: Sue Sprague’s home studio in Prescott, AZ
“Carving and color are what define my work. In this hands-on workshop, I’ll teach two of my favorite surface techniques: sgraffito and modern Mishima.”—Sue Sprague
Sue will begin with a brief overview of both techniques, using examples from her own pottery to demonstrate how each approach influences surface, line, and depth. She will then demonstrate both methods, sharing practical design strategies, carving tips, and problem-solving techniques developed through years of working with clay.
Participants will start by practicing on a leather-hard clay tile using guided design ideas. From there, Sue will lead you as you carve and decorate two leather-hard pieces that you bring to the workshop. There will be ample time to explore and practice both techniques.
This workshop is designed to provide real, usable skills—not just a demonstration. You’ll leave with finished work in progress, a clear understanding of both processes, and the confidence to continue carving and developing your own surface style.
Materials: Two tiles, underglaze and carving tools supplied.
We are asking each participant to bring two, leather-hard pots, either wheel thrown or hand-built, to practice each technique on. The clay body must be at least cone 6.
Limited to 8 participants. A minimum of 6 participants are required for workshop to proceed.
Workshop Cancellation Policy: Full payment due at time of registration. Refund of 50% with cancellation up to 2 weeks prior to the workshop date. No refunds after that date.