During the COVID-19 pandemic, while many were perfecting sourdough recipes, Steph Brown discovered a passion for pottery. She began by hiring a small pottery wheel and, through months of self-guided practice and YouTube tutorials, honed her skills. This journey led her to establish Tasman Clayworks, a pottery school in Windsor Mall, which opened in late 2023.

"I hired a wheel during COVID and then bought one quickly, just a little baby one, and spent months just practising and just learning from YouTube tutorials and practising for months,” Steph said. Although primarily self-taught, she also attended professional classes to understand effective teaching methods and to shape the offerings at Tasman Clayworks.

In August 2023, Steph and her team made a swift decision to open a shop in Windsor Mall. She recalled, "We crash-landed into that shop in the mall in August 2023 after making a split-second decision to go and find a shop. That was on Monday, and we had the shop by Friday."

Tasman Clayworks offers a variety of classes, including beginner taster sessions, "Wheels and Wine" parties for groups, and ongoing classes. What sets Tasman Clayworks apart is its ability to bring people together. Steph said. "We've had everyone from a 90-year-old and her family, to Hen's nights and baby showers to grandparents bringing their grandchildren."

While "Wheels and Wine" classes are typically social events for groups or families, individuals are also welcome. Steph mentioned, "If there's an extra person, I've had no problems with them fitting into a group whatsoever. In fact, they all get together and have a little laugh at what they've made."

Many students return to continue their pottery journey, moving from six-week beginner classes to advanced lessons. Steph said. 

Beyond teaching, Steph creates and sells her handcrafted pieces at her Windsor Mall shop and local markets. Her work has been particularly successful at the Hills Markets at Wiseman's Ferry, Bella Vista Farm, and the Redbank Market in North Richmond, where she plans to return this year, schedule permitting.

For class bookings or to view Steph's pottery collection, visit Tasman Clayworks at 181 George Street in Windsor Mall or book a class online at https://www.tasmanclayworks.com/classes.

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