Ceramic Design & Production Consultation with Ed Bentley

Description

Duration: 30 minutes (online) via WhatsApp, FaceTime or Messenger, or in person. Who it’s for: Potters, manufacturers, artists, students, or indeed anyone wishing to transform their ceramic design concepts into beautifully crafted finished pieces. * Please get in touch with me first to confirm availability before booking a time slot, as this can change on a daily basis * This focused online consultation is ideal if you’re ready to take your ceramic shape design from a drawing or sketch, to a slip-cast and fired/glazed product. Whether you’re developing a single piece, or planning small-batch production, I can guide you along the most effective path forward. You’re also very welcome to discuss your project with me on the phone, or in person at my studio, if you’re not too far away geographically or just passing through. I cover everything from tableware, giftware, lighting to sculptural designs and art installations. I have over 40 years of experience, working within the global ceramic industry, to share with you. What we’ll cover: - Assessing your design’s feasibility. - Advice on clay choices (earthenware, stoneware, bone china, porcelain). - Design for function, aesthetics and ease of production from the beginning. - Range expansion. - An idea of development costs and production considerations. - Production sourcing and manufacturer recommendations. You’ll receive tailored guidance based on your design, functionality goals and production needs, ensuring your idea is not only beautiful but also practical and manufacturable. What I offer: I provide a comprehensive ceramic design and product development service, including: - Shape concept development/styling/sketching through to technical drawings. - Precision hand modelling of new plaster/clay shapes. - Block and case making for repeat working moulds. - Finished size prototype development for retailer meetings. - Small-batch production, supply and support. Skill-building opportunities: Want to build your own skills? I also offer in-depth tuition in: - Shape design and technical drawings. - Plaster modelling by hand. - Lathe and whirler turning. - Handle, spout & lid modelling. - Sprig modelling & moulding. - Plaster sledging. - Single and Multi-part Mould making. - Jigger/Jolley moulds. Tuition can take place either in my fully equipped workshop, or at your own space anywhere in the UK or globally. This ‘industry level’ tuition is ideal for makers looking to invest in their long-term creative and business growth. Industry connections: I work closely with trusted ceramic manufacturers and can recommend production partners who specialise in various clay slips like earthenware, stoneware, bone china and porcelain. They will advise on the best methods and help bring your product to life. Before the consultation: Once you’ve confirmed a time slot with me via this website, please prepare the following: - Sketches, photos or drawings. - References of any existing work. - Notes on function, scale and your production goals. This initial consultation is more than just advice, it’s a great way of building trust and weighing up all options before committing to any product development or tuition time. It also provides the perfect opportunity to discuss your project with me one-to-one and find out how I can best assist you going forward. So, wether you’re looking for a freelance designer and product developer, or expert guidance from a tutor with over 40 years of professional experience in the global ceramic industry, I’m here to support your creative journey every step of the way.

Cancellation policy

Medium - Cancellation and a full refund can be obtained up to 4 weeks before the course starts

Maker

Ed Bentley, Ceramic Artist, Designer and Tutor

with Craft Courses since 2013

Message the tutor

For over thirty five years Ed Bentley has worked within the global ceramic tableware and giftware industries as a shape designer and product developer. He offers expert tuition in plaster modelling and mould making for slip cast ceramics. Ed specialises in taking a concept from a sketch through to a final piece, using his knowledge to develop designs that are both original and easy to produce. He works from his own studio or on-site anywhere worldwide. His clients include The Royal Collection, H.E Smith Tiles Ltd, Chris Dyson Architects, Suzie Hoodless London, The Portland House Project, BCB Ceramics biannual, Lenox China USA, Queensberry Hunt and Steelite International. He has also worked closely with artists/designers Paul Scott, Kit Anderson, Layla Khoo, Ian McIntyre, Tony Laverick, Sasha Wardell and Sue Pryke.