FAQs—Clay Wheel

Our clay wheel workshops are 1.5 hours. That includes a demo, your time at the wheel, and a quick clean-up at the end.

Time flies in the studio.

So get to work, have fun, and don’t worry if it’s not perfect. Clay takes practice (and then more practice). That’s the whole point.

No complaining. Everyone gets it—eventually. It just takes time, practice, and maybe a few wobbly bowls along the way.

Keep going. You’ve got this (and clay’s more forgiving than it looks).

Our wheel classes are small and cozy—usually 4 to 9 students. We keep it that way on purpose. Smaller groups mean more wheel time, more instructor support, and a relaxed, creative vibe.

Because space is limited, classes fill up fast!

Absolutely none. Zero. Zilch. Just show up, listen to the demo and start spinning. We’ll guide you every step of the way.

The wheel is a skill you build over time. You will get it—it just takes practice (and then a little more practice). That’s part of the fun.

We use stoneware clay—usually speckled white or brown. It depends on what our supplier has in stock, but it’s always great quality and perfect for wheel throwing.

Nope. Sorry, we only fire pieces made in the studio using our clay.

Why? Because every clay is different—and mystery clay can cause major kiln drama (think cracks, bubbles, or full-blown explosions). We’re not risking the whole kiln going down, and neither should you.

Thanks for understanding—and keeping our kiln safe and happy. 🔥🫶

The number of pottery pieces you make is up to you! Our program is process-based and everyone works at their own pace. We will fire your best work after class, up to 2.

Remember, it's about practice over perfection, so don't worry if not all your pieces are "keepers."

Enjoy the journey. If you decide you want to keep more than 2 pieces, the cost is $10 per piece.

If you decide you want to keep more then 2 pieces, the cost is $10 per piece.

Shorter nails definitely make it easier to work on the wheel. Long nails aren’t a dealbreaker, but they can make things trickier—especially when centering clay.

So if you want the smoothest experience, a quick trim helps. But no pressure—it’s not impossible, just a bit more of a challenge.

After your piece is made on the wheel, we let it dry completely and then fire it in our kiln (basically a super hot oven). This process takes 14 days.

Then you come back to glaze it using professional-quality brush-on glazes. You choose the colours, brush them on, and we’ll handle the final firing.

Glazing is booked separately and isn’t included in your wheel time.

[Book your glazing session here.]

P.S. Members get discounts on glazing—just saying.

You always have the option to book extra glazing time at the studio.

Let’s talk kiln drama.

Sometimes things explode. Or peel. Or crack.

Is it your fault? Nope. Is it our fault? Also nope. It's just what happens when you mix glaze, clay, heat, and the mysterious laws of the ceramic universe.

Our kilns get hot (like, over 2000°F hot), and sometimes things don't survive the journey.

We get it: you made something amazing. And we want it to turn out just as much as you do. But every so often, the kiln says “not today.”

We’ll always do our best. But just know:

✨ The magic of clay comes with a little unpredictability.

🔥 And that fire? It has the final say.

Even pro potters lose pieces. No refunds or credits for pieces that don’t make it—we’re all at the mercy of the kiln gods. 🔥🫠

Thanks for rolling with the unpredictability. That’s part of what makes handmade so special.

This can occasionally happen, as clay is delicate and fragile before it is fired. We don’t offer refunds or remakes for damaged clay but we promise we treat each piece like it is a Rodin.

14 days after you glaze it—give or take a kiln mood swing. 🔥✨

We’ll hold onto it for 60 days, so no rush… but don’t forget it’s here waiting for you.

Congrats! You made something beautiful. Now here’s how to help it live a long, happy life:

Wash gently, like it’s your grandma’s teacup.

Hand wash with warm water, mild soap, and a soft sponge. No steel wool, no power tools, no weird TikTok hacks. Just good ol’ gentle care.

Avoid temperature shock.

Pottery does not love sudden drama. Don’t take it from the fridge to the oven or vice versa. Let it ease into the heat or chill—slow and steady wins the pottery race.

Is it food-safe?

Only if it has a shiny overglaze. That glossy coat = sealed and safe for snacks. If it’s matte or unglazed, admire it, don’t eat from it.

Show it off. Support it well.

Put it somewhere everyone can admire it (obviously). But when you move it, always lift from the base—not from handles or delicate bits. Pottery is proud, but it appreciates support.

Sunshine? Not too much.

Direct sun can fade the colours over time. Rotate your display now and then.

What if it breaks?

You can use superglue at home—but heads up, it’ll look cute, just not food-safe anymore.

This is a happy place—and we’re serious about keeping it that way.

Please:

– No swearing

– Be respectful to instructors and fellow students

– Treat the studio with care

– Keep conversation light and positive

If something’s not working for you, let’s talk about it.

Threatening, rude, or sarcastic behaviour isn’t welcome here. We’re all about kindness, creativity, and good vibes only. 🎨✨

The Studio Leader is in charge of all decisions in the studio. You're already speaking to the manager—there’s no one else to escalate to, and no alternate answer waiting in the wings.

Our policies are clear, and they exist for a reason: they help us create a space that’s fun, respectful, and welcoming for everyone.

We totally understand that not every studio is the right fit for every person. If our vibe or policies aren’t your cup of tea, that’s okay. We truly wish you well on your creative journey.

We’re all about trying new things, having fun, and making art in a supportive space. That’s the kind of studio we’re proud to run.