Forester Ceramics

Forester Ceramics Private & Small Group Pottery Instruction in Milton, Florida Welcome!

I’m Sonya Simpson, owner and instructor of Forester Ceramics. I’ve been creating pottery for over 30 years and had the privilege of studying under a master potter in Vilseck, Germany, where I spent four years developing traditional ceramic techniques and craftsmanship. Pottery has been a lifelong passion, and I love sharing that passion with others. Whether you’re completely new to clay or looking to refine your skills, my classes are designed to provide a welcoming, encouraging environment where creativity can flourish. Every student receives personalized instruction in a relaxed setting, allowing them to learn at their own pace while creating beautiful, functional works of art. 3-Hour Private Workshops $200 per person Perfect for beginners, visitors, or anyone wanting to experience pottery before enrolling in a longer program. Workshop options include: * Wheel Throwing * Hand Building * Returning Student Enrichment (refine techniques, complete projects, or learn new skills) Each workshop includes: * All clay and materials * Use of professional studio tools and equipment * Personalized, hands-on instruction * Bisque and glaze firings * A variety of glaze and finish options Projects are professionally dried, fired, and glazed according to your selections and will be available for pickup once completed. ⸻ Six-Week Pottery Programs Meet once each week for three hours in a private or small-group setting, allowing plenty of individualized instruction and hands-on practice. Every 6-Week Program Includes: * All clay (25 lbs) and materials * Use of studio tools and equipment * A wide variety of glazes, underglazes, and decorative finishing techniques * Both bisque and glaze firings * Step-by-step hands-on instruction * Individualized guidance in a private or small-class environment Programs Offered Introductory Wheel Throwing & Hand Building Combination Class $600 Experience the best of both worlds while learning foundational wheel throwing and hand-building techniques. This course is ideal for beginners who want a well-rounded introduction to ceramics. Wheel Throwing Intensive $900 Develop confidence on the pottery wheel while learning centering, opening, pulling walls, trimming, handle making, surface decoration, and glazing techniques. Perfect for students wanting to build strong wheel-throwing skills. Hand Building Intensive $900 Explore the endless creative possibilities of hand-built pottery using slab, coil, pinch, sculptural, and decorative techniques to create functional and artistic ceramic pieces. ⸻ At Forester Ceramics, I believe pottery is about more than learning a craft—it’s about slowing down, creating with intention, and experiencing the joy of making something with your own hands. Whether you’re discovering clay for the first time or continuing your artistic journey, you’ll receive the guidance, encouragement, and personalized instruction needed to grow your skills and confidence. I look forward to welcoming you into the studio and helping you discover the magic of clay. Age Guidelines To ensure every student has a safe, enjoyable, and successful experience, I recommend the following minimum ages: • Hand Building: Ages 8 & Up • Wheel Throwing: Ages 10 & Up Every child develops at their own pace, so exceptions may be made on an individual basis. If you have a younger student who is interested in pottery, I’d be happy to discuss the best learning option for them. Please feel free to contact me with any questions: Email: sonyasimpson123@gmail.com Text: (505) 414-4085 ⸻ Service Area Forester Ceramics happily serves students and families throughout Santa Rosa County and Escambia County, Florida. If you live just outside these areas but are within a reasonable driving distance, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m happy to work with families to arrange class times that help reduce travel and make participation more convenient whenever possible. I believe everyone should have the opportunity to experience the joy of working with clay, and I will do my best to accommodate your family’s needs. Individual Learning Needs Forester Ceramics welcomes students with a variety of learning styles and sensory preferences. I offer private instruction in a calm, low-stimulation environment for students who may benefit from a quieter, more individualized learning experience. Because every student has unique needs, I ask that parents or guardians contact me before registering so we can discuss your student’s learning style, goals, and any accommodations that may help create a positive and successful experience. This conversation allows us to determine whether my studio is the right fit and how I can best support your student’s creative journey.