Pottery Classes for Beginners, Where to Start
Did you know that the earliest piece of pottery on record is an estimated 20,000 years old? For centuries humans have made pottery, both for functional and artistic reasons.
Today, making ceramics at a local community pottery studio, in their basement, or garage is the hobby of thousands across the country. Why? Maybe its therapeutic, maybe it’s relaxing, or perhaps they enjoy the challenge?
No matter the reason, the fact you are here and reading this article tells us you yourself are interested in taking a pottery class, and we are so glad you’ve made this decision. Whether you got hooked watching the Great Pottery Throwdown, saw a reel on instagram, or simply want a new hobby, we’ll help you understand options and find a course that fits your goals.
Where should I start when choosing a beginner pottery class option?
Each and every studio has a different culture, offerings, and options. For example, some studios offer access to gas kiln firings, which can change the way glazes look at fit a pot. Here is a short list of other things you may want to consider:
Is the studio conveniently located to where you live, or work?
Is clay included in the cost of your class or membership?
What are the instructors like?
How much studio access is provided?
How much access do YOU need or want?
Some facilities require you to schedule ahead, while others have preset open studio times, and others still have rent-able shelves that give you 24/7 access to the facility.
If you grow to love making ceramics, a studio that has room and options for you to stick around may be worth considering.
How do pottery courses differ from studio to studio in Rochester, NY?
Out of all the things to consider when finding a facility that fits you, one of the most important things is getting to know the culture and workflow of a studio. Here in Rochester, NY you can find many different ceramic studios, each with different class options, pricing, amenities, and most importantly teachers.
Here at Wheel and Slab Pottery club we offer various types of membership options, we put a strong emphasis on culture, and we encourage learning and skill building. Most importantly, we believe everyone deserves a safe, accepting place to work and enjoy their hobbies.
What is a sample pottery course like?
To help you evaluate courses more easily, we’ve broken down how our intro to pottery course is structured, what we expect of students, and how our instructors operate.
Intro to Pottery Course at Wheel & Slab
Our standard intro course is 8 weeks long
Classes are held weekly on a designated morning / day / night
Each class features a short presentation filled with fun facts, info, and more
Each class features demonstrations of a new skill or technique
Lastly, we end our courses with a group potluck celebration. Because what better way to use the ceramics you make than to serve some delicious food!
How can you signup for class?
Signing up for pottery class is easy, simply visit our online store to signup. If we are between semesters you can join our wait list for advance notice when classes open back up.
Still have questions? Call or email us! Now more than ever people need a place to make art, a place to make friends, and space they can unplug.
