Redware Sgraffito Workshop

Join us in the newly restored Grist Miller’s House on November 1 from 10 AM-4 PM for a hands-on redware sgraffito pottery workshop hosted by Master Artisan Denise Wilz.

This redware workshop focuses on the sgraffito technique used by 18th- and 19th-century Pennsylvania German potters to make expressive designs in their folk-art pottery. Sgraffito means to “scratch” and workshop participants will draw and scratch a design on a redware plate. Participants can choose a traditional Pennsylvania German design or create their own.

After the workshop, the plates will be dried, glazed and fired (process takes 4-5 weeks). Participants will be notified when their plates are ready and can be picked up at the Grist Miller’s House. Contact Jackie Armao if shipping is necessary.

About the Artist

Denise Wilz has been creating Pennsylvania Redware since 2002. She has a degree in Studio Art from Moravian University and was a computer programmer and craft hobbyist prior to embarking on a career as a redware potter. She is a Master Artisan of the Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsmen (PGC) and is currently on the PGC board. Wilz is also included in the Directory of Traditional American Crafts presented by Early American Life. Her article Pennsylvania Redware was published in Pottery Making Illustrated’s March/April 2008 issue. Learn more about Wilz and her work at wilzpottery.com.