About Us: Our Team & FAQs
Ka Ching ("KC") Ip
KC, a native of Hong Kong and student of Ceramic Design at Central St Martins, is deeply engaged in the world of ceramics. She explores glazing techniques and unconventional firing methods with enthusiasm. Alongside her academic pursuits, KC is a devoted mother of two and a co-founder of Cone8. In her leisure time, KC enjoys the art of puppetry and finds relaxation in the soothing sounds of sound baths. As a resident wheel-throwing instructor at Cone8, she shares her knowledge with a blend of tradition and innovation. KC's genuine dedication and expertise serve as inspiration to those around her, embodying the essence of creativity and community.
@kaching_pottery on Instagram
Sarah Feder
Sarah's artistic journey is shaped by her New Zealand DIY upbringing and her diverse Malaysian, Chinese, and Scottish heritage. Her educational background, including a Bachelor of Architecture and Masters in Design Innovation, enriches her creations with a blend of cultural traditions and contemporary aesthetics. Specialising in home-styling items and jewellery, Sarah's focus on hand-thrown tableware reflects her dedication to both functionality and beauty. Beyond ceramics, Sarah enjoys culinary exploration and unraveling mysteries through true crime podcasts. Guided by her mentor-turned-business partner KC, Sarah's commitment to her craft shines through as she transitions from student to co-founder, crafting pieces that seamlessly merge practicality with aesthetic appeal.
@smfederceramics on Instagram.
Lisa Castle
Lisa, a versatile artist with a BA from Central St Martins, infuses her creations with a blend of skill and flair. With expertise honed at Corrie Bain International Ceramics School, she excels in throwing exquisite tableware on the wheel and employing diverse hand-building techniques like Nerikomi. Beyond clay, Lisa's background is as colorful as her creations: from swinging on the trapeze in the circus to mastering the art of floristry. Currently residing on a houseboat in London, she finds inspiration in the ebb and flow of river life. Lisa's eclectic journey and passion for craft fuel her boundless creativity, making her a dynamic force in the ceramics community.
Abby Spiller
Hailing from the creative and vibrant city of Bristol, Abby is a final year student of ceramics design at Central Saint Martins. An enthusiast of intricate designs and mythology, she is a specialist in the ancient technique of agateware.
Layla Simner-Lock
A graduate of BA Ceramics Designs at Central Saint Martins, Layla's an expert sculptor whose works have been exhibited at SET, Lethaby Gallery, and featured in photoshoots by Luca Wowcyna with the musician Dorian Electra.
Layla's art carries a bold and dynamic flavour, and she is ready to share her knowledge and skills with you in one of our hand building classes!
Arianna (Ari) Magana-Jones
Arianna embodies minute organic detail and pattern into her work, celebrating the intricate beauty of the natural world. Working in tandem with other artists, she’s contributed on projects including a Roman Heritage Project, and production for the White Cube Gallery.
Arianna has had a transient upbringing across the UK before settling in London to study BA Ceramic Design at Central Saint Martins.
Arianna has a passion for teaching and inspiring students about all things clay. Cone8 is excited to offer the chance to be under Arianna's guidance, come start your journey!
Nyler Neptune
Studied in Social and Community Work at Goldsmiths University of London and with extensive experience in childcare, Nyler (She/they/them/theirs) applies equal care and creative playfulness to their ceramics practice.
Their warm infectious personality paired with their communication skills with people of all ages is a major asset, and you can meet them in person every Saturday at our Cone8 Ceramics studio!
FAQs
General
What does "Cone8" mean?
Cone8 is our ceramic sweet spot! In ceramics, we use pyrometric cones to gauge the heat inside our kilns, with each number representing a different temperature range. Cone8 corresponds to a kiln temperature of about 1,250°C, where clay creations come to life!
But Cone8 represents more than just a temperature. It signifies the ‘connate’ creativity within each of us, waiting to be shaped and fired with dedication and skill. Join us at Cone8, where we seek to nurture the connate potential within you.
What makes Cone8 different from other ceramics studios?
We are a women-owned boutique studio dedicated to cultivating a supportive and inclusive community. We are focused on managing capacity to avoid crowding, ensuring a comfortable and focused environment for our participants and residents.
Further, we prioritize fair compensation for our teachers, recognizing their expertise and dedication to the craft. This allows us to attract and retain top talent, enriching the learning experience for our community members.
Can I teach at Cone8?
Teaching opportunities are primarily reserved for our resident artists. However, we do offer a variety of master classes taught by guest instructors. If you have unique ideas or expertise you'd like to share with our community, we'd love to hear from you at hello@coneeight.co.uk!
Can I bring my kids?
We offer child-friendly classes designed specifically for caregivers with little ones. Children must be at least 5 years old to participate. Children up to the age of 14 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
If you're considering a residency membership and have questions about bringing your child into the studio, please don't hesitate to reach out.
What kind of throwing wheels do you have in the studio?
We have four Shimpo RK55’s and two Brent Model B’s.
What is your privacy policy?
We prioritize the security and privacy of your personal data. This policy outlines how we collect, use, and protect the information you provide when using our website, booking classes, or subscribing to our email distributions.
Data Collection: We collect personal data you voluntarily provide, including name, email address, and contact information.
Data Usage: We use this data to facilitate bookings, send important updates, communicate about products and services with your consent, and enhance our services.
Legal Basis: We process your data based on contract performance, consent for marketing, and legitimate interests.
Data Retention: Your data is retained only as long as necessary or required by law.
GDPR Rights: Under GDPR, you have rights to access, rectify, erase, restrict processing, and data portability.
For questions or concerns about this policy or your data, email us at hello@coneeight.co.uk.
Classes & Courses
I’ve never done ceramics before – what class should I sign up for?
We’re excited to introduce newcomers to the world of ceramics, and our studio offers a range of options to suit every experience level. For your first visit, we recommend trying one of our taster classes. These hands-on sessions in hand building or wheel throwing provide a fantastic opportunity to explore different techniques and discover what resonates with you.
If you're looking for a more immersive experience, consider our 4-week or 8-week courses. These longer programs allow for a deeper dive into the world of ceramics, fostering skill development and creativity over time. For those seeking personalized guidance, our private lessons offer tailored instruction to help you achieve your specific goals.
No matter which option you choose, our small class format ensures that you'll receive individualized attention and support throughout your ceramic journey. We can't wait to see you in the studio!
How large are your classes?
To ensure a quality learning experience and reduce crowding, our throwing classes are limited to six people. We can fit a bit more into hand building classes. This allows our instructors to dedicate ample time to every student, fostering a supportive and focused environment for creativity to flourish.
Can I take home my creations?
Absolutely! We encourage you to take your creations home with you; we charge £5 per item (or by weight a rate of £0.01 per gram for certain types of courses).
These fees contribute to covering the costs of clay, kiln firings, and the time we spend trimming and glazing your items if necessary.
What is your cancellation policy?
For taster class or private lesson cancellations, we kindly ask for at least 48 hours' notice by email to hello@coneeight.co.uk. Master Class and multi-week course bookings are non-refundable.
For private events, we require at least 14 days' notice for cancellation via email.
Can I host my birthday / corporate outing / other event at your studio?
Absolutely! Enhance your gatherings with Cone8! Whether it's a private celebration, corporate team-building event, or a unique stag/hen do, we specialize in crafting memorable experiences with clay.
For tailored events accommodating up to 14 guests, email us at hello@coneeight.co.uk.
Contact Us
Studio 84, Adansbeck Court, 33 Rookwood Way, London E3 2XT
Opening hours: By appointment