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North Carolina

The Art of Working Clay by Hand

Program No. 21934RJ
Discover the thrill of working clay by hand as you join experienced instructors to create your own unique masterpieces. Plus, explore the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains!

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At a Glance

Encourage and inspire your creative spark as you experience the joy of working clay by hand. Working under expert guidance in a fully equipped pottery studio, use soft clay slab construction and extruded forms to learn and apply a range of techniques including slip and score construction, the slump mold process, scraffitto design and glazing. Begin with raw clay, form it, glaze it and fire it to produce decorative and functional pieces you can take home proudly. It may all sound foreign now, but by the end of the program you’ll sound — and look! — like a pro.
Activity Level
On Your Feet
Daily climbing a flight of stairs to the second floor of a building where classes are held, walking up and down hills.
Small Group
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.

What You'll Learn

  • Work with a professional potter to create your own pieces.
  • Go home with useful and beautiful finished pieces as well as a toolbox full of new skills that will surely spark your interest to do more with clay!
  • Learn specific handbuilding, throwing, glazing and kiln/firing techniques, as well as gaining new insight into the culture of clay.

General Notes

The Retreat Difference: This unique, often basic and no-frills experience at a Road Scholar Retreat includes opportunities for early morning exercise, interaction with the local community for insight into local life, an authentic farm-to-table or locally sourced meal, a live performance or event, and a value-priced single room. Appropriate for beginners and more advanced students. Opportunities are available for traveling companions to attend a different program at Montreat during the same week. Due to the nature of this program, listening devices are not available.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Profile Image
Sarah Peters
Sarah Friday Peters grew up surrounded by the pottery traditions of North Carolina. She started making her own pots while working summers in Montreat as an arts and crafts instructor, as well as a handbuilding pottery instructor. Sarah began Wellspring Creative in 2006, making handcrafted jewelry and gifts, and is current president of the Triangle Potters Guild in Raleigh, North Carolina. Nature, spirituality, fellow potters, and new tools, textures, and techniques continue to inspire her. She and Cathie are looking forward to inspiring you!

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Becky Garrity
Becky Garrity View biography
Becky Garrity studied sculpture and ceramics at the College of William and Mary and landed a pottery apprenticeship in Japan. After a brief stint as a graphic designer, she devoted herself to pottery, and since 1998, she has been committed to making pots and teaching pottery. Her aesthetically influenced work is showcased in several galleries, and she claims her pottery is inspired by the energy of her eager students.
Profile Image of Ann Laird Jones
Ann Laird Jones View biography
Rev. Dr. Ann Laird Jones has been working in the Sally Jones Pottery at Montreat for 26 years, and loves every part of working with clay! She is driven by the vigorous conversation between arts and theology, and is moved by the collaborative opportunities to work in community with great artists. She has served as Montreat Conference Center's director of arts ministry since 1993.
Profile Image of Tracy Bailey
Tracy Bailey View biography
Tracy has been on the program staff of Montreat Conference Center since 1986. She began working with Elderhostel programs in 1989, and in 1997 assumed the additional role of on-site coordinator. A native of the area, she graduated from Asheville-Buncombe Technical College in 1981. Her favorite hobbies are hiking, pottery and reading. Tracy married Sam in 2007, and added three daughters to her family. In addition to her own grown children, she and Sam have been foster parents since 2010. They have four grandchildren.
Profile Image of Sarah Peters
Sarah Peters View biography
Sarah Friday Peters grew up surrounded by the pottery traditions of North Carolina. She started making her own pots while working summers in Montreat as an arts and crafts instructor, as well as a handbuilding pottery instructor. Sarah began Wellspring Creative in 2006, making handcrafted jewelry and gifts, and is current president of the Triangle Potters Guild in Raleigh, North Carolina. Nature, spirituality, fellow potters, and new tools, textures, and techniques continue to inspire her. She and Cathie are looking forward to inspiring you!
Profile Image of Cathie Dodson
Cathie Dodson View biography
Cathie Dodson, an artist and former English teacher who moved to Montreat from Louisiana six years ago, has worked on Montreat summer staff at Sally Jones Pottery since 2018. She enjoys sharing the sanctuary space that exists in the pottery studio and helping others explore their own creative gifts in new ways.
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Meals
15 Meals
5 Breakfasts
5 Lunches
5 Dinners
The following choices may be available when requested in advance: Low Fat, Vegetarian, Low Salt, Gluten Free
Lodging
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Display
Aug 24, 2025 - Aug 29, 2025
  • Aug 24, 2025 - Aug 29, 2025
  • Aug 04, 2024 - Aug 09, 2024
  • Aug 25, 2024 - Aug 30, 2024
  • Sep 08, 2024 - Sep 13, 2024
  • May 11, 2025 - May 16, 2025
  • Aug 03, 2025 - Aug 08, 2025
  • Aug 24, 2025 - Aug 29, 2025
  • Sep 07, 2025 - Sep 12, 2025
5 nights
Montreat
Located at the heart of the Montreat Conference Center overlooking Lake Susan, the historic and impressive stone Assembly Inn has 100 comfortable guest rooms. Guest rooms have either a king, a queen, or two twin beds. The majestic 1928 Inn and guest rooms, updated in 2014, have small tiled guest bathrooms (all private baths) with tub/shower units, contemporary in-room sinks with granite countertops, large mirrors, individual heating and air conditioning units, and information on local dining and shopping options. Wifi service for your personal devices is included. To encourage guests to better appreciate Montreat’s beauty and serenity, guest rooms do not have television sets or telephones (but there is a television in the main lobby). It would be helpful to bring an umbrella, a flashlight, an individual make-up mirror, and shampoo and conditioner, if desired. Loan of an iron or hair dryer can be arranged, and needed amenities can be purchased at the front desk. In the beautiful Assembly Inn Lobby, one will find comfortable furnishings, a large fireplace with hearth, and a baby grand piano. This impressively pillared public space with quiet corners and a cozy reading room invites fellowship, enjoyment of puzzles and games, or individual relaxation. A large screen TV is located in the main lobby. Two attached patios beckon, with outdoor seating and views of the lake. The Inn is equipped with both an elevator and passenger lifts for those who wish mobility assistance. These lifts service the Inn’s meeting spaces as well as the Galax Dining Room and all guest rooms. ADA compliant guest rooms feature a walk-in shower and raised toilet seat. The front desk is staffed around the clock for your stay. Montreat is a private, non-profit conference center with roots in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). We strive to demonstrate intentional hospitality to all. We will not tolerate discrimination on our campus. All are welcome.
5 nights
Montreat
Located at the heart of the Montreat Conference Center overlooking Lake Susan, the historic and impressive stone Assembly Inn has 100 comfortable guest rooms. Guest rooms have either a king, a queen, or two twin beds. The majestic 1928 Inn and guest rooms, updated in 2014, have small tiled guest bathrooms (all private baths) with tub/shower units, contemporary in-room sinks with granite countertops, large mirrors, individual heating and air conditioning units, and information on local dining and shopping options. Wifi service for your personal devices is included. To encourage guests to better appreciate Montreat’s beauty and serenity, guest rooms do not have television sets or telephones (but there is a television in the main lobby). It would be helpful to bring an umbrella, a flashlight, an individual make-up mirror, and shampoo and conditioner, if desired. Loan of an iron or hair dryer can be arranged, and needed amenities can be purchased at the front desk. In the beautiful Assembly Inn Lobby, one will find comfortable furnishings, a large fireplace with hearth, and a baby grand piano. This impressively pillared public space with quiet corners and a cozy reading room invites fellowship, enjoyment of puzzles and games, or individual relaxation. A large screen TV is located in the main lobby. Two attached patios beckon, with outdoor seating and views of the lake. The Inn is equipped with both an elevator and passenger lifts for those who wish mobility assistance. These lifts service the Inn’s meeting spaces as well as the Galax Dining Room and all guest rooms. ADA compliant guest rooms feature a walk-in shower and raised toilet seat. The front desk is staffed around the clock for your stay. Montreat is a private, non-profit conference center with roots in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). We strive to demonstrate intentional hospitality to all. We will not tolerate discrimination on our campus. All are welcome.
5 nights
Montreat
Located at the heart of the Montreat Conference Center overlooking Lake Susan, the historic and impressive stone Assembly Inn has 100 comfortable guest rooms. Guest rooms have either a king, a queen, or two twin beds. The majestic 1928 Inn and guest rooms, updated in 2014, have small tiled guest bathrooms (all private baths) with tub/shower units, contemporary in-room sinks with granite countertops, large mirrors, individual heating and air conditioning units, and information on local dining and shopping options. Wifi service for your personal devices is included. To encourage guests to better appreciate Montreat’s beauty and serenity, guest rooms do not have television sets or telephones (but there is a television in the main lobby). It would be helpful to bring an umbrella, a flashlight, an individual make-up mirror, and shampoo and conditioner, if desired. Loan of an iron or hair dryer can be arranged, and needed amenities can be purchased at the front desk. In the beautiful Assembly Inn Lobby, one will find comfortable furnishings, a large fireplace with hearth, and a baby grand piano. This impressively pillared public space with quiet corners and a cozy reading room invites fellowship, enjoyment of puzzles and games, or individual relaxation. A large screen TV is located in the main lobby. Two attached patios beckon, with outdoor seating and views of the lake. The Inn is equipped with both an elevator and passenger lifts for those who wish mobility assistance. These lifts service the Inn’s meeting spaces as well as the Galax Dining Room and all guest rooms. ADA compliant guest rooms feature a walk-in shower and raised toilet seat. The front desk is staffed around the clock for your stay. Montreat is a private, non-profit conference center with roots in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). We strive to demonstrate intentional hospitality to all. We will not tolerate discrimination on our campus. All are welcome.
5 nights
Montreat
Located at the heart of the Montreat Conference Center overlooking Lake Susan, the historic and impressive stone Assembly Inn has 100 comfortable guest rooms. Guest rooms have either a king, a queen, or two twin beds. The majestic 1928 Inn and guest rooms, updated in 2014, have small tiled guest bathrooms (all private baths) with tub/shower units, contemporary in-room sinks with granite countertops, large mirrors, individual heating and air conditioning units, and information on local dining and shopping options. Wifi service for your personal devices is included. To encourage guests to better appreciate Montreat’s beauty and serenity, guest rooms do not have television sets or telephones (but there is a television in the main lobby). It would be helpful to bring an umbrella, a flashlight, an individual make-up mirror, and shampoo and conditioner, if desired. Loan of an iron or hair dryer can be arranged, and needed amenities can be purchased at the front desk. In the beautiful Assembly Inn Lobby, one will find comfortable furnishings, a large fireplace with hearth, and a baby grand piano. This impressively pillared public space with quiet corners and a cozy reading room invites fellowship, enjoyment of puzzles and games, or individual relaxation. A large screen TV is located in the main lobby. Two attached patios beckon, with outdoor seating and views of the lake. The Inn is equipped with both an elevator and passenger lifts for those who wish mobility assistance. These lifts service the Inn’s meeting spaces as well as the Galax Dining Room and all guest rooms. ADA compliant guest rooms feature a walk-in shower and raised toilet seat. The front desk is staffed around the clock for your stay. Montreat is a private, non-profit conference center with roots in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). We strive to demonstrate intentional hospitality to all. We will not tolerate discrimination on our campus. All are welcome.
5 nights
Montreat
Located at the heart of the Montreat Conference Center overlooking Lake Susan, the historic and impressive stone Assembly Inn has 100 comfortable guest rooms. Guest rooms have either a king, a queen, or two twin beds. The majestic 1928 Inn and guest rooms, updated in 2014, have small tiled guest bathrooms (all private baths) with tub/shower units, contemporary in-room sinks with granite countertops, large mirrors, individual heating and air conditioning units, and information on local dining and shopping options. Wifi service for your personal devices is included. To encourage guests to better appreciate Montreat’s beauty and serenity, guest rooms do not have television sets or telephones (but there is a television in the main lobby). It would be helpful to bring an umbrella, a flashlight, an individual make-up mirror, and shampoo and conditioner, if desired. Loan of an iron or hair dryer can be arranged, and needed amenities can be purchased at the front desk. In the beautiful Assembly Inn Lobby, one will find comfortable furnishings, a large fireplace with hearth, and a baby grand piano. This impressively pillared public space with quiet corners and a cozy reading room invites fellowship, enjoyment of puzzles and games, or individual relaxation. A large screen TV is located in the main lobby. Two attached patios beckon, with outdoor seating and views of the lake. The Inn is equipped with both an elevator and passenger lifts for those who wish mobility assistance. These lifts service the Inn’s meeting spaces as well as the Galax Dining Room and all guest rooms. ADA compliant guest rooms feature a walk-in shower and raised toilet seat. The front desk is staffed around the clock for your stay. Montreat is a private, non-profit conference center with roots in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). We strive to demonstrate intentional hospitality to all. We will not tolerate discrimination on our campus. All are welcome.
5 nights
Montreat
Located at the heart of the Montreat Conference Center overlooking Lake Susan, the historic and impressive stone Assembly Inn has 100 comfortable guest rooms. Guest rooms have either a king, a queen, or two twin beds. The majestic 1928 Inn and guest rooms, updated in 2014, have small tiled guest bathrooms (all private baths) with tub/shower units, contemporary in-room sinks with granite countertops, large mirrors, individual heating and air conditioning units, and information on local dining and shopping options. Wifi service for your personal devices is included. To encourage guests to better appreciate Montreat’s beauty and serenity, guest rooms do not have television sets or telephones (but there is a television in the main lobby). It would be helpful to bring an umbrella, a flashlight, an individual make-up mirror, and shampoo and conditioner, if desired. Loan of an iron or hair dryer can be arranged, and needed amenities can be purchased at the front desk. In the beautiful Assembly Inn Lobby, one will find comfortable furnishings, a large fireplace with hearth, and a baby grand piano. This impressively pillared public space with quiet corners and a cozy reading room invites fellowship, enjoyment of puzzles and games, or individual relaxation. A large screen TV is located in the main lobby. Two attached patios beckon, with outdoor seating and views of the lake. The Inn is equipped with both an elevator and passenger lifts for those who wish mobility assistance. These lifts service the Inn’s meeting spaces as well as the Galax Dining Room and all guest rooms. ADA compliant guest rooms feature a walk-in shower and raised toilet seat. The front desk is staffed around the clock for your stay. Montreat is a private, non-profit conference center with roots in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). We strive to demonstrate intentional hospitality to all. We will not tolerate discrimination on our campus. All are welcome.





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