Wheel Workshop – Leaf Rimmed with Tom Darby

Hobbyland hosts Tom Darby for an intensive workshop focused on creating bowls with a leaf rim, a distinctive technique developed by the artist over the years. Based in Bavaria, Tom is recognized for his structured teaching approach, designed to guide students toward an independent and conscious practice on the wheel.

The workshop is structured as a complete and progressive path: each phase is clearly demonstrated before execution, allowing participants to work with confidence and full control of the process. From building the base forms to defining the rim and finishing, the work follows a logical sequence that makes the technique reproducible independently.

During the course, participants will explore the creation of various wheel-thrown forms designed for stability and dynamism, techniques for pulling and shaping the leaf rim, and managing the fluidity and movement of the edge. Particular attention will be given to identifying common mistakes and strategies to avoid them.

Learning takes place through a combination of demonstration and guided practice: participants will create a small series of bowls to consolidate the technique through repetition and develop a concrete understanding of the process.

The course provides not only technical skills but also a working method that can be applied over time, enabling participants to continue independently with greater control and awareness.

The workshop will be held in Italian and English.

Topics covered

Day 1 – Form and Foundations

Introduction to leaf-rim bowls, analysis of different bowl shapes, and creation of base forms on the wheel to be used throughout the course.

Day 2 – Building the Leaf Rim

Learning techniques to pull and shape the leaf rim: hand positions, water management, and creation of a natural, fluid edge on thrown pieces.

Day 3 – Sculpting and Finishing

Carving, shaping, and finishing the bowls, followed by surface work using tools, sponges, and brushes to harmonize each piece.

• Creation of various base forms on the wheel (designed for stability and dynamism)
• Techniques for pulling and shaping the leaf rim
• Rim finishing and control of line “fluidity”
• Turning and shaping the foot using different supports (chucks)
• Early identification of common issues and strategies to avoid them

Learning method:

• Each phase is demonstrated in depth, followed by guided practice
• You will create a small series of bowls to consolidate the technique through repetition
• You will complete the course with skills that can be applied independently in your work

What is included in the price

All materials and tools required for the workshop will be provided.

Additional informations

The course will be confirmed with a minimum of 6 participants.