Colm de Rís who has been featured on the US shopping channel QVC on several occasions gave a master class in ceramics from his thriving pottery studio in North County Dublin. The three apprentices had to first identify a market and then decide on a product that would best suit their market. Colm gave the group guidance as they battled to control not only the potter’s wheel but also the setbacks from lost pieces in the kiln. All three apprentices produced their end pieces with just enough time to give a final glaze to their products. The Apprentices: Name: Caoimhe Woods Profession: Waitress/Student From: Monaghan Profile: Caoimhe has just completed her final year in the National College of Art and Design. She mostly hand builds in clay so working with a potter’s wheel threw some challenges her way. Name: Ian Carty Profession: Unemployed From: Sligo Town Profile: Ian is currently unemployed and pottery making has been his saviour over the past few years. This is Ian’s big chance to break through in the world of ceramics and his ultimate aim is to start up his own business. Name: Deirdre Beatty Profession: School Teacher From: Dublin Profile: Deirdre is a busy mum of three who is currently on a break from her primary school teaching job to explore her more creative side in the world of craft.