A few weekends ago I was lucky enough to find myself on the Angels Farm Pottery Slowdown weekend with one of my closest friends, Kerry. We’ve done a short course together before, but that was about 20 years ago! So, off we went to the beautiful New Forest, stopping to look at the ponies on the way and reminiscing about our days working in that area many moons ago.
Arrival at Avalon House
We got to the B&B we’d booked, called Avalon House – and met the nicest host ever, Nick. He was super helpful with where to eat and we had a great chat with him about travel and life in general. The breakfast there was top notch too!
Day 1 – Angels Farm
Anyway…onto the pottery. Kerry and I did the two day course, which was perfect for me fitting around the kids (thanks bro for watching them for the weekend!). Day 1 was throwing – we arrived for the start at 9.30 and were firstly treated to a demo by Jo Osman. Jo glided through the throwing process as you might expect from someone with 50 years of experience, but she certainly didn’t rush – explaining what she was doing, where she was placing her hands and how to make the most of the clay. I asked a couple of questions as we went along, which were fully answered. Before we knew it – it was over to us! We selected a couple of machines (although because we were busy chatting we didn’t get to select our machines early – meaning Kerry and I got separated – this may have been a good thing from the POV of actually learning though!) and got to work.
We were given creative freedom to make whatever we liked – and could take up to 6 pots home. Now…I have never used clay like the Angels Farm clay – it literally popped off the wheel when wired off, no pulling and tugging things out of shape! I asked if this was available to buy, but this amazing clay is for the learners at the pottery – another reason to return! I was sat opposite Susanne, who made some absolutely stunning moon jars – I had a go at following her lead but have to say they were no-where near as good…more practise needed!
Break from the make
At 11am (and 4pm) there was a well earned break (for us, not for Jo though who had already worked hard on home-baked biscuits). Everything was served in Angels Farm crafted pots and mugs, which was a lovely touch. The biscuits were very moreish, you can’t beat a nice homemade biscuit! Jo’s cottage garden is absolutely stunning – with the best wisteria we’d ever seen – it’s a place you really don’t want to leave. But…the pots were calling!
Then back to it!
We returned to the wheel and carried on, fed and watered, to make more items through the morning and then after lunch too. Derek and Anne (Jo’s Apprentices) were so lovely – nothing felt like too much trouble and Derek took the time to show me spiral wedging too and what was needed. I feel much more confident doing it at home now. Derek had an obvious love for pottery, sharing tips and tricks as well as really knowing his stuff when we had any issues. He’s at @potts_pottery if you want to give him a follow, his pots are lovely!
Lunch
I hadn’t really read up about the lunch, but I have to say it was really pleasantly surprising. I’ll admit, I probably don’t eat enough vegetables, but if I could cook like Penny of Travels with Lemons, I would definitely reconsider! Lunch on both days was lovely with perfectly cooked Asian inspired dishes, enjoyed by all.
Day 2 – Angels Farm
Day 2 felt more relaxing after the faster pace of the previous day’s throwing. As I mentioned, we could choose 6 items to fire or take home – so I made my selection and the others went off to be reclaimed, and the clay reused. We were shown how to make handles for our pots and how to paint them with a variety of coloured slips. We had tools for carving, tools for smoothing and the good old needle tool for a few other things too!
I decided on a few bits and pieces – my kids love honey so I made a honey jar, as well as a heavier lidded jar that will hopefully hold pasta (or more likely biscuits) once completely finished. Also made a small bud vase. I made a bowl and spent most of the morning adding sgraffito decoration, but managed to smash this before firing – I am SO clumsy! The items can be shipped over to you once fired, but since I am lucky enough to have my own kiln I have popped them in there – I’m still waiting for the final glaze firing but will try and add this here once done.
My thoughts on Angels Farm
I think it’s pretty evident that I really enjoyed the trip to Angels Farm. We had a great stay at Avalon House, coupled with a brilliant couple of days at the pottery. I’d definitely return for another session there with the lovely Angels Farm team. You can stay at Angels Farm too, but spaces are limited – so if you want to stay on site I’d say to book up quickly.
To book, visit www.angelsfarm.co.uk. They are on instagram @angelsfarmpottery. Avalon house can be booked via their website www.avalonhousebandb.co.uk
PS – The pots on the right hand picture are from everyone – not just me!
Dawn Reed Pottery 
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