Beginner Pottery Classes in Perth: What to Expect

If you've ever wanted to try pottery but weren't sure where to start, you're not alone. One of the most common things we hear is, "I've always wanted to have a go!"

The good news? You don't need any experience to enjoy working with clay.

At Perth Artists' Collective, our hand building workshops are designed to be relaxed, welcoming and creative. Whether you're looking for a new hobby, a fun activity with friends, or simply a chance to switch off for a few hours, pottery is a wonderful way to slow down and make something with your own hands.

Do I Need Any Experience?

Not at all.

Our workshops are suitable for complete beginners through to people returning to clay after many years. You'll be guided through each step by experienced ceramic artist Anna Fenelon from Mná & Mud, who will demonstrate the techniques before helping you create your own unique piece.

There's no pressure to be "good" at pottery—everyone learns at their own pace, and every finished piece has its own character.

What Will I Make?

Our first workshop focuses on creating your own handcrafted chip and dip bowl.

Over the three-hour session, you'll shape your bowl, learn simple handbuilding techniques and decorate it with your own design. No two bowls are ever the same, making each one a truly personal piece to use at home or give as a thoughtful handmade gift.

Once your piece has been completed, we'll carefully dry, glaze and fire it in the kiln. Your finished bowl will be ready to collect in approximately three weeks.

What Happens During the Workshop?

Our workshops are intentionally small, with a maximum of eight participants, so everyone receives plenty of individual guidance.

A typical workshop includes:

• A friendly introduction to hand building with clay.

• Step-by-step demonstrations.

• Time to create your bowl.

• A short break (feel free to bring your own snacks or lunch).

• Decorating and adding your own personal touches.

• Plenty of encouragement, conversation and creativity.

It's a relaxed atmosphere where you can enjoy the process just as much as the finished piece.

What Should I Wear?

Clay washes out easily, but we'd recommend wearing comfortable clothing that you don't mind getting a little dusty.

An apron is handy if you have one, but don't worry if you don't—we'll make sure you're comfortable while you create.

Why Try Pottery?

In today's busy world, it's rare to spend a few uninterrupted hours creating something with your hands.

Many people find working with clay incredibly calming. It encourages you to slow down, focus on the present moment and enjoy the creative process without worrying about perfection.

Whether you come on your own, with a partner or as part of a group, pottery workshops are also a wonderful way to meet new people and connect with your creative side.

Why Choose Perth Artists' Collective?

Perth Artists' Collective is more than just a gallery.

We're a creative community made up of more than 20 local artists who are passionate about sharing their skills and inspiring others to discover the joy of making.

When you visit, you'll not only learn from a talented local ceramic artist—you'll also have the chance to explore the beautiful handmade work created by artists across a range of mediums, from ceramics and jewellery to painting, textiles and sculpture.

Everyone is welcome, whether you're an experienced creative, completely new to art, or simply looking for a unique way to spend an afternoon.

Join Us for a Pottery Workshop in Perth

If you've been thinking about trying pottery, there's no better time to start.

Our small-group workshops are fun, friendly and designed for all skill levels. You'll leave with new skills, great memories and a handmade piece that is uniquely yours.

Places are limited to just eight people per workshop to ensure everyone receives personalised guidance.

Visit our Workshops page to see upcoming dates and book your place. We can't wait to welcome you to Perth Artists' Collective and help you discover the joy of working with clay.

Perth Artist's Collective

Why Perth Artists' Collective Isn't Just Another Gallery

Walk past Perth Artists' Collective and you might think we're a gallery.

White walls. Beautiful artwork. Handmade ceramics. Paintings, jewellery, textiles and sculptures carefully displayed throughout the space.

But step inside, and you'll quickly realise we're something a little different.

We're a creative community—a place where local artists can showcase their work, share their stories, and connect with the people who appreciate handmade.

More importantly, we're a place where everyone is welcome.

Art Isn't Just for Art Lovers

For some people, galleries can feel intimidating. They worry they have to know something about art, stay perfectly quiet, or feel pressured to buy something.

That's not us.

At Perth Artists' Collective, you're welcome to wander through, ask questions, chat with the artists when they're in store, or simply enjoy looking around.

You might be searching for a unique gift, decorating your home, looking for inspiration, or just escaping the hustle of the city for a few minutes. Whatever brings you through our doors, we're glad you're here.

A Home for Local Creatives

Perth Artists' Collective was created to support local artists by giving them a welcoming space to display and sell their work while building genuine connections with the community.

Today, our collective is home to more than 20 artists working across a wide range of creative mediums.

Every piece you'll find in the shop has been thoughtfully designed and handmade by one of our artists. Behind every mug, painting, necklace or sculpture is a person with their own story, inspiration and creative journey.

When you support handmade, you're supporting local people, local businesses and the creative community that makes Perth unique.

More Than a Place to Shop

While we love helping people find the perfect handmade gift or artwork, Perth Artists' Collective is also a place to learn, create and connect.

Throughout the year we host small-group workshops where beginners and experienced makers alike can discover the joy of working with clay.

There's something special about making something with your own hands. It slows you down, encourages creativity and reminds us that art isn't just something to admire—it's something everyone can experience.

Meet the Makers

One of the things we love most is seeing customers meet the artists behind the work.

Hearing the inspiration behind a ceramic bowl, discovering how a painting came to life, or watching an artist demonstrate their craft adds another layer to every handmade piece.

These conversations create connections that simply don't happen when shopping from a large retailer.

Building a Creative Community

Perth Artists' Collective is about more than selling art.

It's about celebrating creativity, supporting local talent and creating a welcoming space where artists and visitors feel equally at home.

Whether you're taking your first pottery class, looking for a meaningful handmade gift, or simply curious about what's inside, we invite you to come in and say hello.

You don't need to know anything about art.

You just need to be curious.

Visit Perth Artists' Collective

Next time you're in the city, step inside and have a look around.

Meet the artists. Discover something handmade. Find a unique gift. Or simply enjoy spending a little time surrounded by creativity.

You might arrive expecting a gallery.

We hope you'll leave feeling like you've discovered a community.

Perth Artist's Collective

Where to Buy Handmade Gifts in Perth

Finding the perfect gift isn't always easy.

Whether you're celebrating a birthday, housewarming, wedding, anniversary or simply want to show someone you're thinking of them, many of us are looking for something a little more meaningful than another mass-produced item.

That's where handmade gifts come in.

At Perth Artists' Collective, we believe the best gifts tell a story. Every piece in our store has been designed and created by a local artist, making each purchase as unique as the person receiving it.

Why Choose Handmade?

When you buy handmade, you're choosing something created with skill, creativity and care.

Unlike factory-produced products, handmade pieces often take hours—or even days—to complete. Every brushstroke, stitch, glaze and detail reflects the time and passion invested by the artist.

No two pieces are exactly the same, which means your gift is truly one of a kind.

Support Local Artists

One of the greatest things about buying handmade is knowing exactly where your money goes.

Every purchase supports local artists, helping them continue creating, developing their skills and sharing their work with the community.

When you shop local, you're investing in Perth's creative community and helping independent artists do what they love.

Handmade Gift Ideas

Looking for inspiration? Perth Artists' Collective offers a wide range of handmade gifts for every occasion.

Some popular ideas include:

• Handcrafted ceramics for the home

• Original paintings and artwork

• Handmade jewellery

• Textile art and homewares

• Sculptures and decorative pieces

• Functional pottery you'll use every day

• Unique greeting cards and smaller keepsakes

• Dirty dishes and cheeky sculptures

Whether you're shopping for someone who loves colour, contemporary design, nature, or something completely different, there's always something special waiting to be discovered.

A Gift with a Story

One of the things customers tell us they love most is hearing about the artist behind the work.

Knowing who made your mug, what inspired a painting, or how a piece was created adds meaning that simply can't be found on a department store shelf.

A handmade gift isn't just an object—it's a conversation, a memory and a connection to the person who created it.

More Than a Shop

Perth Artists' Collective is more than a place to buy beautiful things.

It's a welcoming creative space where visitors can meet artists, discover new work, explore different mediums and even take part in pottery workshops.

We want everyone to feel comfortable walking through our doors—whether you're searching for the perfect gift, decorating your home, or simply curious about the incredible talent being created by local artists.

Why Shop Local?

Choosing to buy locally has a ripple effect throughout the community.

It supports independent artists and small businesses, encourages creativity, and helps keep Perth's arts scene thriving.

Every handmade purchase is an investment in real people, real stories and the creative future of our city.

Visit Perth Artists' Collective

If you're looking for handmade gifts in Perth, we'd love to welcome you into Perth Artists' Collective.

Take your time exploring our ever-changing collection of ceramics, paintings, jewellery, textiles and more. Meet the artists when they're in store, discover something unexpected, and find a gift that's every bit as special as the person you're buying it for.

Because the best gifts aren't just bought—they're discovered.

Perth Artist's Collective

Father's Day Gift Ideas in Perth: Thoughtful Handmade Gifts He'll Actually Love

Father's Day is just around the corner, and if you're looking for something a little more meaningful than socks, chocolates or another last-minute gift, you're not alone.

The best gifts are the ones that feel personal—something chosen with care and made to last.

At Perth Artists' Collective, every piece is handcrafted by local artists, making it easy to find a gift that's as unique as the person you're buying for.

Skip the Ordinary This Father's Day

Finding a gift for Dad can be surprisingly difficult.

Whether he's practical, creative, loves entertaining, appreciates beautiful craftsmanship or simply enjoys supporting local businesses, handmade gifts offer something you won't find in a department store.

Each piece has its own character and story, making your gift feel far more personal than something mass-produced.

Gift Ideas for Every Kind of Dad

Looking for inspiration? Here are just a few ideas you'll discover at Perth Artists' Collective.

For the Coffee Lover

Handmade mugs are among our most popular gifts. Crafted by local ceramic artists, every mug is slightly different, making that morning coffee feel a little more special.

For the Entertainer

Serving platters, bowls and handmade ceramics are perfect for dads who enjoy cooking, hosting family gatherings or firing up the barbecue.

They're practical gifts that will be used and appreciated for years to come.

For the Art Lover

Original artwork makes an unforgettable Father's Day gift.

Whether it's something bold and colourful or calm and understated, choosing an original piece supports a local artist while giving Dad something he'll enjoy every day.

For the Dad Who Has Everything

When someone already seems to own everything they need, handmade gifts become even more meaningful because no two pieces are exactly alike.

It's not just another gift—it's something created by hand, with care and creativity.

Why Buy Handmade?

Every purchase at Perth Artists' Collective supports local artists and the creative community here in Perth.

Instead of buying something that has been mass-produced, you're choosing work that reflects hours of skill, passion and craftsmanship.

It's a gift that tells a story—and one that Dad will know was chosen especially for him.

Make a Day of It

If you're visiting the city before Father's Day, why not drop into Perth Artists' Collective and browse at your own pace?

Take your time discovering ceramics, paintings, jewellery, textiles and other handcrafted treasures created by our talented community of local artists.

You might arrive looking for a Father's Day gift and leave having discovered your new favourite local creative space.

Celebrate Father's Day with Something Meaningful

This Father's Day, choose a gift that's thoughtful, unique and made with heart.

Whether you're shopping for Dad, a grandfather, stepdad, father figure or someone who's simply made a difference in your life, you'll find something special at Perth Artists' Collective.

Because the best gifts aren't always the biggest—they're the ones with a story behind them.

Perth Artist's Collective

There is something about clay that makes the rest of the world go quiet.

For me, pottery is incredibly mindful. When I’m sitting at the wheel, watching it go round and round, with my hands completely focused on the clay in front of me, there isn’t much room for anything else. I’m thinking about pressure, movement, water and form. I’m watching something slowly take shape between my hands.

It’s almost meditative.

Handbuilding gives me that same feeling in a different way. I can lose hours playing with clay — rolling, pinching, joining and changing things as I go. And at the end of it, there’s something wonderfully simple about realising that I have literally turned mud into something tangible.

In a world where so much of our time is spent looking at screens, answering messages, thinking ahead and juggling endless mental lists, making something with your hands feels different.

Creativity gives our minds somewhere else to go

Art doesn't require us to be "good" at it to get something from the process.

Painting, drawing, sewing, pottery, jewellery making, photography or any other creative practice asks us to concentrate on what is happening in front of us. You're choosing a colour, making a mark, shaping a piece of clay or solving the tiny problems that naturally appear when you're making something.

That focus can give our minds a break from everything else competing for our attention.

There is growing recognition of the role creative activities can play in supporting mental wellbeing. Art can provide an outlet for expression, encourage connection and give us an opportunity to slow down and focus on the present.

And sometimes I think we simply need permission to play.

Why pottery can feel so mindful

Clay is particularly interesting because it's so tactile.

You can't really make pottery without engaging your senses. You notice whether the clay is too wet or too dry. You feel its texture and resistance. You have to respond to what it's doing rather than simply forcing it to do what you had planned.

On the pottery wheel, even small changes in pressure make a difference. Your hands need to be steady. You need to pay attention.

With handbuilding, the pace can be slower, but you're still working directly with the material — pinching, smoothing, rolling, joining and shaping.

For me, that physical connection is a huge part of why ceramics can be so calming. My hands are busy, my attention is on the clay, and for a while I'm simply there.

There is value in making something that isn't about productivity

As adults, we're very good at turning everything into something we have to achieve.

We work. We manage homes. We answer emails. We keep appointments. We tick things off lists. Even our hobbies can somehow become another thing we're supposed to be good at.

Creativity can be an antidote to that.

You don't have to become a professional ceramicist because you enjoyed a pottery class. You don't have to sell your paintings because you love painting. You don't need to master a craft for the time you spend doing it to have value.

You can make something simply because making it feels good.

And yes, sometimes your pot will collapse.

Sometimes the handle will fall off.

Sometimes what comes out of the kiln will look absolutely nothing like the picture you had in your head.

That's part of it too.

Clay has taught me a lot about letting go of perfection and accepting that not everything is completely within my control. Sometimes the unexpected result ends up being better than the original plan.

Art can also create connection

Creativity doesn't have to be solitary.

One of the things I love about creative spaces is watching people connect while they're making. Conversation happens naturally when everyone has something to do with their hands. There isn't the pressure of sitting opposite somebody and trying to make conversation — you're simply creating alongside each other.

That's part of what I want Perth Artists' Collective to be.

Yes, PAC is a place to discover and buy work from local artists. But I also want it to be a place where people can participate in creativity themselves — through workshops, events and opportunities to simply sit together and make.

You don't have to already consider yourself an artist to belong in a creative space.

Maybe we all need a little more time to make

Art isn't a replacement for professional mental health care, and I don't think we need to pretend that a ball of clay can solve everything life throws at us.

But I do think creativity can give us something valuable.

A few hours away from a screen.

Something to concentrate on other than our thoughts.

The satisfaction of learning something new.

A chance to connect with other people.

Permission to play, experiment and make mistakes.

And perhaps, at the end of it, something tangible that didn't exist a few hours earlier.

For me, that's clay.

I can sit at the wheel and watch it go round and round, or lose an afternoon handbuilding something from an idea that appeared in my head. For those few hours, the noise quietens.

I'm just making.

And sometimes, that's exactly what I need.

Perth Artists' Collective is a creative space in Perth bringing together local artists, art lovers and people who simply want to make something. Our workshops are designed to be welcoming and accessible, including for complete beginners. Visit our Workshops page to see what's coming up.

So, Perth seems to have collectively decided that we’re done with winter.

The days are getting a little longer, the sun has some warmth to it, and there are noticeably more people out and about. People are dressing in colour, they're lingering rather than rushing from one shelter to another, and the city seems to have a sunnier disposition.

Spring is almost here — and I am very ready for it.

Coming Out of Hibernation

There’s something about winter that makes us retreat. We stay home more, cancel plans when it’s raining and become very attached to the couch.

Then the first few warm days arrive and suddenly everything feels a little different.

People start making plans again. We go for walks, wander through the city, meet up with long lost friends and remember all the places we’ve been meaning to go.

I've really noticed that change at Perth Artists’ Collective lately. There are more people wandering through the city, popping their heads into the shop and taking the time to browse, chat and discover the work of our local artists.

It feels like Perth is waking up again.

A New Season for Creativity

I think creativity has its own seasons too.

Spring brings colour back into the world. Flowers start appearing, the light changes and everything feels a little brighter. It's hard not to feel inspired by it.

And perhaps that's why spring has always felt like a fresh start.

Not quite the “new year, new me” pressure of January — just a gentle little nudge to get out, try something different and make time for the things that make us happy.

That might mean picking up a paintbrush, getting your hands covered in clay, starting a craft project you've been thinking about for months or simply spending an afternoon looking at beautiful things other people have created.

Creativity doesn't always have to be about making something yourself, either. Sometimes it's simply about slowing down long enough to notice the things around you.

There's Plenty Happening at PAC This Spring

The timing couldn't be better because PAC is heading into spring with plenty happening.

We now have 23 artists in the Collective, working across ceramics, painting, textiles, jewellery, wood, glass, plants, 3D art and more. One of my favourite things about the shop is that it never really stays the same. New work arrives, displays change and there's almost always something you haven't seen before.

Our creative workshops are also underway, and we're getting ready to introduce Crafternoons — relaxed afternoons where you can bring along whatever you're working on, sit down, create and spend some time with other creative people.

Because that's really what I want PAC to be.

Not somewhere you have to know about art to walk through the door. Not somewhere you have to whisper and keep your hands behind your back.

Just a welcoming, creative space where you can discover something handmade, meet local artists, learn something new or simply have a wander.

Consider This Your Invitation

So, if you've spent the last few months hibernating, consider this your invitation to emerge.

Shed the winter coat. Find some sunshine. Wander around Perth. Have a coffee. Visit somewhere you haven't been before. Pick up that creative project you've been putting off.

And if you happen to be wandering through the Perth CBD, pop into Perth Artists’ Collective and say hello.

Spring is almost here.

And Perth is looking pretty lovely from where I'm sitting.

Every year, the same question rolls around.

“What do you want for Father’s Day?”

And every year, there’s a very good chance the answer is:

“Nothing.”

Helpful.

Father’s Day is this Sunday, 6 September, and if you’re currently staring at the calendar wondering what on earth to buy the dad, stepdad, grandad, husband or father figure in your life, you’re probably not alone.

The tricky thing about buying for Dad isn’t necessarily finding something. There are plenty of things you could buy. The challenge is finding something that actually feels like them.

And that’s where shopping handmade gets a little more interesting.

Forget the usual Father’s Day aisle

There’s nothing wrong with socks. Or another bottle of something. Or the annual novelty mug.

But one of my favourite things about having more than 20 local artists under one roof at Perth Artists’ Collective is seeing just how different everybody’s work is.

We have ceramics, woodwork, paintings, plants, textiles, jewellery, glass and three-dimensional art — and because everything has been created by an individual artist, there are pieces with quirks, personality and stories behind them.

Which means you can actually wander around and think:

“That is SO Dad.”

Maybe they're the person who takes their cheese board extremely seriously.

Maybe they have a favourite coffee mug that nobody else is allowed to use.

Maybe they love their garden.

Maybe they have a very particular sense of humour.

Maybe they're impossible to buy for because they already buy themselves everything they want.

Or maybe they genuinely don't need more stuff — but would appreciate something made by another person rather than something pulled from a warehouse shelf.

You don't have to know anything about art

This is something I really want people to know about PAC.

You don't have to be an “art person” to come in.

You don't have to understand techniques, know artists’ names or be able to explain why you like something.

You can just like it.

That’s enough.

The same goes for buying art and handmade pieces as gifts. You’re not trying to choose the most impressive or important thing in the room. You’re looking for the thing that reminds you of the person you're buying it for.

Sometimes that's a painting.

Sometimes it's a beautifully handmade bowl.

Sometimes it's a slightly ridiculous ceramic object that makes you laugh immediately.

Those are often the best presents.

And yes, you can leave it until the last minute

As someone who runs a shop, I probably shouldn't encourage procrastination.

But as a human being, I understand it completely.

The good news is that shopping locally means Father’s Day doesn't have to involve desperately refreshing a tracking number and hoping a parcel makes it across the country by Sunday.

You can come into the Perth CBD, have a wander, see everything in person and take your present home with you.

And if you genuinely cannot decide? We have gift vouchers too.

No judgement.

A little gift with a bigger story

There’s another part of buying handmade that I think is particularly lovely.

When you buy something from Perth Artists’ Collective, there's a real person behind it.

Someone designed it. Painted it. Threw it on a pottery wheel. Carved it. Sewed it. Fired it. Glazed it. Grew it. Made it.

You're giving Dad a present, but you're also supporting an Australian artist and helping them continue doing what they love.

That's a pretty nice story to attach to a Father’s Day present.

Even if Dad still insists that they “don't need anything.”

Happy Father’s Day to all the dads, grandads, stepdads, father figures and honorary dads out there.

And to everyone still trying to work out what to buy them:

Good luck.

We’ll see you in the shop.

Perth Artists’ Collective Murray Street, Perth CBD Open Tuesday–Saturday, 10am–5pm