Surface Art: Sgraffito
Unveiling Hidden Depths: a PIE Ceramic Workshop
Date and time
Saturday, 26. April 2025, 16.30 O'clock
Further dates
Overview
Beginner
No previous knowledge required for this event.
De & En
Our guide speaks fluent German and English.
Studio Zürich
2.5 hours
A one-off hands-on skill-sharing session for 2–4 hours
Workshop
Weekly classes to build real skills, step by step.
What we will be doing
Scratch beneath the surface — and reveal something beautiful.
Sgraffito — from the Italian “to scratch” — is a decorative ceramics technique that’s all about revealing contrast, pattern, and surprise. In this inspiring 3-hour workshop, you’ll learn how to turn a simple slab of clay into a stunning ceramic plate using this ancient and captivating method.
We’ll start by rolling and shaping your plate by hand, then applying a layer of coloured slip (liquid clay). Once that’s set, the real magic begins — you’ll carve into the surface to create your own design, revealing the clay underneath in bold lines, fine textures, or whatever shapes your imagination leads you to. No drawing skills needed — just a sense of curiosity and a love of detail.
You’ll be guided every step of the way in a relaxed and welcoming studio atmosphere. From the first press of clay to the final scratch of your carving tool, you’ll explore the sgraffito process with hands-on support, plenty of encouragement, and a glass of something refreshing in hand — your choice of wine, tea, prosecco, or something non-alcoholic to sip as you shape.
After the session, we’ll take care of glazing and firing your piece. Your finished sgraffito plate will be ready for pickup in about 4 weeks. One plate is included in the price — if you’re inspired to make more, you can simply pay for extra materials on the spot.
This workshop is perfect for anyone looking to slow down, scratch beneath the surface, and uncover something beautifully their own.
✨ How PIE Ceramics Workshops Work
Our ceramics workshops are one-off sessions designed for intensive skill-sharing in a relaxed, creative atmosphere. Whether you’re just starting your journey with clay or already have some experience and want to explore a new technique, this is the perfect chance to get your hands dirty, learn something new — and follow your creativity wherever it leads.
Each workshop focuses on a specific process or form, guided by a professional ceramic artist. You’ll learn the core technique step by step, then have space to experiment, personalise, and take your piece in whatever direction feels right to you. It’s structured, supportive, and creatively wide open.
Workshops take place in our cosy, fully-equipped studios in Zürich and Basel, where everything’s set up to support your creative flow — including materials, tools, good lighting, and good vibes.
No pressure, no perfection — just the joy of discovering what you can create with your own two hands.
🏺 What’s Included
- All tools, materials, and clay
- Personal guidance from an experienced ceramic instructor
- One piece included for firing and glazing (extras optional for a small fee)
- A welcoming and inspiring studio space to explore ceramics at your own pace
- The option to return and glaze your piece in one of two ways:
→ Join a glazing workshop at a discounted price
→ Or glaze it yourself in our Creative Café for CHF 20 — walk in or reserve a table during opening hours
🔥 Firing & Pickup
We take care of firing and glazing your ceramic piece after the workshop.
Firing takes approx. 4 weeks – we’ll contact you when your piece is ready for pickup.
🥂 A Toast to Creativity
Every workshop starts with a complimentary welcome drink to help you settle in and spark your creative side. Choose from:
- A soft drink or hot drink
- A glass of wine, prosecco, or beer
- Or our rotating Cocktail of the Week
Feeling fancy? Upgrade to a signature cocktail, mocktail, or smoothie for just CHF 5–9.
🍴 Hungry for More? (in ZH)
Our Creative Café is open during your session — with wraps, bowls, snacks, sweet treats and more to fuel your inspiration. Additional drinks and food are available à la carte throughout the workshop.
📋 Good to Know
- Arrival: Please come 10–15 minutes early to settle in and grab your welcome drink
- Cancellations: Tickets are transferable, but non-refundable within 36 hours
- Rescheduling: Possible up to 72 hours before the workshop
- Pickup: Pieces are ready around 4 weeks after your session
- All levels welcome — no experience needed, just curiosity and a willingness to get a little messy
- Alcohol: Only served to guests aged 18+
👉 Full terms & policies: shop.paintiteasy.ch/en/tickets/terms
What are PIE workshops?
Learn new techniques in 3-4 hours in intensive courses
Learn more about PIE Workshops
Private event
You can also enjoy this or similar events privately. To the event planner
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«One of the best places in the city to switch off with creative projects, good coffee and a warm atmosphere. The studio offers unique courses and workshops - with a great team that combines knowledge with fun.»
Salony Roongta
«The evenings in the PIE Studio are always wonderful. A place where you can give free rein to your creativity and connect with like-minded people. Don't miss the chance - become part of the community!»
Laura Company
«A great place to get a little happiness boost and be creative! Wonderful people and a great atmosphere - definitely worth a visit. I've already done several drawing and painting courses in the studio and I'm really pleased that there's now a café too!»
Valentijn Broeken
«Paint It Easy is my creative feel-good place in Zurich. Whether painting courses, open studios or brunch & paint - everything is just right here. Great team, relaxed atmosphere and always new ideas to try out!»
Ally Z
«We absolutely loved the Creative Café - delicious food, a relaxed atmosphere and the creative freedom to just get started spontaneously. We painted ceramics, got inspired and immediately wanted to try lino printing on our next visit!»
Janiza Ouarab
