Question 1

Can I bring my own clay?

Accepted Answer

No. For safety, consistency, and quality control reasons, all clay must be purchased from the studio.

Question 2

What happens if a piece breaks in the kiln?

Accepted Answer

We work with careful processes, but ceramics is an artisanal practice. We cannot guarantee results in every firing. The important thing is to enjoy the process and keep creating!

Question 3

Should I bring my own tools?

Accepted Answer

Members are expected to bring their own tools, but a limited amount of wheel throwing and handbuilding tools are available for use a the studio. We also sell basic kits at the studio.

Question 4

Can I take my greenware pieces with me and then return to fire them?

Accepted Answer

No. Pieces must be completed at the studio, using studio clay. If you choose to take your creations with you, we cannot receive them back for firing.

Question 5

How do I book a class or workshop?

Accepted Answer

You can do it directly on our website: www.pottersunion.com
You can also write to us at hello@pottersunion.com or chat with us on the website.

Question 6

I’m new to pottery. Are there beginner-friendly classes?

Accepted Answer

Definitely! We offer a 8-week Beginner to Wheel Throwing course designed specifically for beginners. This course gives you a solid foundation in pottery basics with plenty of hands-on guidance in a small, supportive class setting.

Question 7

How should I prepare for my pottery class?

Accepted Answer

Dress comfortably in clothes and shoes you don’t mind getting dirty—clay usually washes out, but glazes may not. Tie back long hair, trim your nails for better control at the wheel, and leave jewelry like rings and bracelets at home so they don’t get in the way. Please bring a towel and an apron. We also sell Potters Union aprons at the studio.

Question 8

How many students are typically in a class?

Accepted Answer

Our wheel throwing classes usually have up to 10 participants, and our handbuilding classes usually have between 10-16 students, so there’s plenty of opportunity for hands-on guidance.

Question 9

What kinds of clay do you use?

Accepted Answer

We offer three types of clay bodies, Laguna B-Mix 5, Standard 112, and Standard 266.

Question 10

What pottery techniques will I learn?

Accepted Answer

We teach wheel throwing techniques and handbuilding techniques, such as pinching, slab building and coiling — so you can create everything from bowls to more complex forms.​

Question 11

How long does it take for my pottery to be fired and ready?​

Accepted Answer

Finished pieces typically take 3–5 weeks to process, depending on firing schedules. We will send you a notification when your work is ready. We kindly ask that you pick up your pottery as soon as you can once notified. There is no need to call or email ahead—just swing by during open hours. If we do not hear from you within 14 days, we will send one reminder for pickup. Due to limited storage space, any work not picked up within seven days of the second email will be considered abandoned and will be recycled or donated. If a friend took the class with you, you are welcome to pick up their work too.

Question 12

Can I make up a missed class?

Accepted Answer

We don’t generally offer make-up classes, but please let us know ahead of time if you need to miss a session. We offer limited credits for cancellations with advance notice.

Question 13

What’s your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

Workshops: Cancellations must be made at least 48 hours in advance for a credit to use towards another workshop. No monetary refunds for missed workshops.
Classes: If you are unable to attend the first class, we recommend joining us for another class series. We cannot provide a refund but will give a credit to use at a different time. If you miss a class and need open studio time, notify us within 24 hours.
Memberships: Upon enrollment, a three-month minimum commitment is required. Following the initial three-month period, memberships may be canceled at any time by submitting written notice via email at least 30 days prior to the next billing cycle. Please note that the final month’s dues are non-refundable.

Question 14

Do you offer classes for children?

Accepted Answer

Currently, our classes and workshops are for ages 15 and up.

Question 15

Can I rent the studio for private events?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Contact us at hello@pottersunion.com to discuss availability and rates.

Question 16

What is your inclement weather policy?

Accepted Answer

Potters Union may close the studio at owners’ discretion due to inclement weather based on Federal, State and Local Government guidance. We only close the studio if we think that conditions are unsafe for members, students and instructors to travel to the studio. Any classes or workshops scheduled on days when the studio is closed because of inclement weather will be rescheduled for a future date. We will announce all inclement weather closings on our Instagram and by email to the email address on file.

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