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How to Be Fearless with Underglaze | Tony Young
SUMMER CAMP
Tuesday July 28th | 4-9pm
In this high-energy workshop, Tony Young of Riot Ceramics shares his layered approach to building rich, dynamic surfaces using underglaze. Participants will learn how depth and complexity are achieved through multiple applications and a wide range of techniques.
Tony’s process includes stenciling, sponging, underglaze transfers, stickers, taping, hand painting, screen printing, and more - all layered intentionally to create bold, graphic results. He’ll also discuss the development of his custom screens, how he incorporates AI into his design workflow, and the playful influences that shape his imagery (yes, his cats may make an appearance in the conversation).
This workshop breaks down underglaze in a way that removes hesitation and builds confidence. Whether participants are brand new to surface decoration, experienced ceramic artists looking to refine their voice, or makers who have struggled with underglaze in the past, this class offers practical tools and clear strategies for achieving stronger results.
Tony will walk through his full creative process, sharing tips for avoiding common pitfalls and explaining how to get the vibrant, crisp finishes he’s known for. Expect technical insight, lots of experimentation, and plenty of encouragement to push boundaries.
Participants will leave with an expanded arsenal of underglaze techniques — and the confidence to use them fearlessly.
You will be decorating a tumbler during this workshop.
Class is limited to 24 participants
Beale Pottery will be providing a small variety of underglaze transfers and screen prints for you to play with. You are welcome to bring your own if you’d like a specific design.
Tony’s suggested items to bring:
Stickers! Stickers typically used for garage sales, little stars, circles, squares, etc are great, but any unique shapes work…. ALSO if you have a Cricut and can print some vinyl that would be great!
A towel - I use this to pad my table. I work on ALL bisque, and even then work is fragile.
Underglaze transfers - Lots of the variety and visual interest I generate comes from these. Best companies are SANBAO Studios, Elan Transfers, and PLUM Island. I use all three of theirs - mixing and matching them for the different things I do.
Screenprints - If you have some great. This is not something I think you should get JUST for this workshop.
Scissors - Any good pair will work.
Bring a tooth brush! They’re fun and just use an old one you’re retiring.
Printed imagery - Just print anything you’d like to transfer. Stars, numbers, etc. Imagery with strong line work is best, and print multiple sizes so you can fit it to the tumbler. I’ll show you how to transfer it.
Additional Camp Information:
BYOB Policy
We can’t provide beer or wine, but you’re welcome to bring your own if you’re 21+ and sip responsibly.
Camp Patches
Each camper will receive a limited-edition patch designed by the featured workshop artist. Each one reflects the spirit of that class, and the techniques explored. Sew them onto your apron, tote, or camp hoodie, and start a collection! I mean… that’s pretty sweet, right?!
Camp Loyalty Perks
• After paying full price for one workshop, you will receive 10% off each additional workshop.
• Attend allworkshops and you’ll receive a limited edition 2026 Summer Camp Claypron (complete with logo and room for your patches) plus 20% off overall.
**Please note: John Britt’s workshop is not eligible for discounts.
Closing Ceremony
Saturday August 1st | 5PM Sharp
What’s a week at summer camp without a closing ceremony and ribbon awards? If you attend just one workshop, you are invited to display your favorite pieces from your week at camp to share with everyone, and for the chance to earn a ribbon. Tried something new? Mastered a tricky technique? Created a masterpiece? Survived kiln drama? There’s likely gonna be a ribbon for that. We’ll cheer. We’ll clap. We may ooooh and ahhh….
Patches will be proudly displayed. Stories will be told. This is our moment to celebrate the beautiful community that forms when we gather to create with one another… and play in the mud.
A Quick Camp Policy Note
All workshop sales are final — no refunds or credits. We operate Summer Camp with built-in discounts to make it accessible, and we plan carefully to create something truly special. Our guest artists travel to be here and are paid for sharing their knowledge with our community. Thank you for understanding and supporting that commitment.
SUMMER CAMP
Tuesday July 28th | 4-9pm
In this high-energy workshop, Tony Young of Riot Ceramics shares his layered approach to building rich, dynamic surfaces using underglaze. Participants will learn how depth and complexity are achieved through multiple applications and a wide range of techniques.
Tony’s process includes stenciling, sponging, underglaze transfers, stickers, taping, hand painting, screen printing, and more - all layered intentionally to create bold, graphic results. He’ll also discuss the development of his custom screens, how he incorporates AI into his design workflow, and the playful influences that shape his imagery (yes, his cats may make an appearance in the conversation).
This workshop breaks down underglaze in a way that removes hesitation and builds confidence. Whether participants are brand new to surface decoration, experienced ceramic artists looking to refine their voice, or makers who have struggled with underglaze in the past, this class offers practical tools and clear strategies for achieving stronger results.
Tony will walk through his full creative process, sharing tips for avoiding common pitfalls and explaining how to get the vibrant, crisp finishes he’s known for. Expect technical insight, lots of experimentation, and plenty of encouragement to push boundaries.
Participants will leave with an expanded arsenal of underglaze techniques — and the confidence to use them fearlessly.
You will be decorating a tumbler during this workshop.
Class is limited to 24 participants
Beale Pottery will be providing a small variety of underglaze transfers and screen prints for you to play with. You are welcome to bring your own if you’d like a specific design.
Tony’s suggested items to bring:
Stickers! Stickers typically used for garage sales, little stars, circles, squares, etc are great, but any unique shapes work…. ALSO if you have a Cricut and can print some vinyl that would be great!
A towel - I use this to pad my table. I work on ALL bisque, and even then work is fragile.
Underglaze transfers - Lots of the variety and visual interest I generate comes from these. Best companies are SANBAO Studios, Elan Transfers, and PLUM Island. I use all three of theirs - mixing and matching them for the different things I do.
Screenprints - If you have some great. This is not something I think you should get JUST for this workshop.
Scissors - Any good pair will work.
Bring a tooth brush! They’re fun and just use an old one you’re retiring.
Printed imagery - Just print anything you’d like to transfer. Stars, numbers, etc. Imagery with strong line work is best, and print multiple sizes so you can fit it to the tumbler. I’ll show you how to transfer it.
Additional Camp Information:
BYOB Policy
We can’t provide beer or wine, but you’re welcome to bring your own if you’re 21+ and sip responsibly.
Camp Patches
Each camper will receive a limited-edition patch designed by the featured workshop artist. Each one reflects the spirit of that class, and the techniques explored. Sew them onto your apron, tote, or camp hoodie, and start a collection! I mean… that’s pretty sweet, right?!
Camp Loyalty Perks
• After paying full price for one workshop, you will receive 10% off each additional workshop.
• Attend allworkshops and you’ll receive a limited edition 2026 Summer Camp Claypron (complete with logo and room for your patches) plus 20% off overall.
**Please note: John Britt’s workshop is not eligible for discounts.
Closing Ceremony
Saturday August 1st | 5PM Sharp
What’s a week at summer camp without a closing ceremony and ribbon awards? If you attend just one workshop, you are invited to display your favorite pieces from your week at camp to share with everyone, and for the chance to earn a ribbon. Tried something new? Mastered a tricky technique? Created a masterpiece? Survived kiln drama? There’s likely gonna be a ribbon for that. We’ll cheer. We’ll clap. We may ooooh and ahhh….
Patches will be proudly displayed. Stories will be told. This is our moment to celebrate the beautiful community that forms when we gather to create with one another… and play in the mud.
A Quick Camp Policy Note
All workshop sales are final — no refunds or credits. We operate Summer Camp with built-in discounts to make it accessible, and we plan carefully to create something truly special. Our guest artists travel to be here and are paid for sharing their knowledge with our community. Thank you for understanding and supporting that commitment.