Discover Handmade Ceramics by Ricky Blanding
Functional art for everyday rituals — shaped by hand, fired with intention.
About Us
Ricky Blanding
a Detroit-based potter, instructor, and artisan with over 15 years working in clay.
His work is showcased at regional art fairs through the Guild of Artists & Artisans and via his studio brand, Ricky Blanding Ceramics.
His teaching philosophy: “simplifying the craft, honoring material, and creating pieces that fit into people’s lives — not just on a shelf.”
Why choose us ?
we pour all the beauty into the pottery
- Mastery of Form: With more than a decade of throwing, glazing and kiln-firing, each piece reflects deep craftsmanship.
- Instruction for All Levels: Ricky leads beginners and experienced students alike through in-studio classes and workshops.
- Small-Batch & Local: Hand-crafted in Detroit; limited runs so you’re getting something unique.
Our Classes
Utilize your craftsmanship here
Experience the joy of creating with your own hands — every class begins with clay and ends with something uniquely yours
Beginner Wheel Throwing
Perfect for those brand new to ceramics. You’ll learn how to center clay, pull walls, and shape simple forms like mugs and bowls. Each student leaves with their first finished piece, glazed and kiln-fired.
Sculptural Ceramics
Explore hand-building, slab construction, and organic sculptural forms. Students learn to merge utility with expression using tools and natural textures. No prior wheel experience required.
Advanced Studio
For experienced potters ready to refine their craft. Work one-on-one with Ricky to design, produce, and critique a series of cohesive works. Emphasis on advanced throwing, precision trimming, and glaze control.
Intermediate Glazing & Surface Design
Move beyond form and into surface expression. This class covers glaze layering, underglaze painting, carving, and texture techniques. Students experiment with finishes and develop a cohesive personal style.
Group Workshops
A relaxed introduction to pottery designed for groups of 4–10. Ricky provides guided instruction for everyone to make a small vessel or mug. Ideal for corporate team-building, birthdays, or creative nights out.
Mastering the Clay Body
Dive into the materials that make up your clay and glazes. Learn how temperature, mineral content, and technique affect the final piece. Perfect for potters who want to take control of every step of the process.
Every curve tells a story — from the wheel’s rhythm to the warmth of the kiln
Fun fact
The Art of Clay, Shared With Many Hands
Working with clay is more than just creating—it’s connecting. Every year, dozens of new students join Ricky’s studio to experience the satisfaction of shaping, glazing, and firing their own work. Whether you’re here to unwind or master the craft, you’ll leave with something far more meaningful than just pottery.
Grounded by Clay
“Clay has a way of grounding us. Each session starts with patience, ends with pride, and reminds us that art lives in our hands.” — Ricky Blanding
Testimonial
What they say about our class
FAQ
The most question we had
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Blog & article
read our article
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