Ceramics designer-maker
Ceramics designer-makers design and create products made from clay.
Also known as: Ceramicist
- Typical hours40 to 42 a week
What you'll do
In a large company, you could:
- interpret the client's ideas to create a design
- research trends and competitor products
- create designs for mass production
- manage the production process and check quality
- make sure materials are costed and production is within budget
As an independent designer-maker, you may also:
- design and produce one-off designs and sets
- market your own business
- mange your business admin and finance
Working environment
You could work in a factory, in a creative studio, in a workshop or from home.
Skills and knowledge you'll need
You'll need:
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- knowledge of the fine arts
- the ability to work on your own
- ambition and a desire to succeed
- the ability to work well with your hands
- the ability to sell products and services
- persistence and determination
- the ability to come up with new ways of doing things
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
How to become a ceramics designer-maker
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- workshop courses with a private studio
University
You could do a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in an art and craft subject like:
- visual arts
- 3D design and craft
- ceramics
- fine art
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- a foundation diploma in art and design
- 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
College
You could do a Level 3 Diploma in Art and Design at college. You'll need to check that the course covers ceramics or pottery before you start.
An interest in art and crafts is usually more important than qualifications to join a course.
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
Apprenticeship
You can apply to do a Craft Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship with a design studio or workshop.
This can take up to 2 years to complete.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
Work
You could start as a design studio assistant and specialise in ceramics through workshops and training on the job.
Other routes
You could attend workshops and training courses offered by ceramic artists and design studios. These can help you to develop your skills and make contacts in the industry, which could lead to work.
Courses vary in length and cost and are often open to all abilities.
Career path and progression
With experience you could:
- become a senior designer
- work as a freelance ceramics designer-maker
- set up your own business
- teach in schools, colleges, universities or private training providers
Career tips
You'll need to put together a portfolio of work to show to potential employers and course providers. You can also use social media and online craft communities to market yourself and get your work recognised.
Guides for this industry
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