FAQs
How do I enroll in a class?
You can enroll in a class by navigating to the “Classes” section. Choose your desired course, select the date and time that works best for you, and complete the checkout process online.
Can I enroll over the phone?
As it turns out, we do not take enrollments over the phone. Our streamlined online booking system ensures accurate scheduling and a smooth experience for everyone.
Why does pottery take so long to be made?
Creating pottery involves multiple steps: forming the piece, drying (which can take a week or more), bisque firing, glazing, and a final firing. Each stage requires time to ensure the piece doesn’t crack or warp. Good things take time, and your patience will be rewarded with a piece that lasts forever.
What should I wear to my pottery class?
Wear something you don’t mind getting a little messy—we have a few aprons available to borrow but clay has a way of sneaking past them! Comfortable, close-toed shoes are a must, and tie back long hair for wheel classes. If you have long nails, we can try to offer accommodations but, generally short nails make throwing pottery a lot easier.
What is the age limit on pottery wheel classes?
Our pottery wheel classes are open to participants ages 13 and up. From our experience, younger students may find the wheel challenging, but they are welcome to try our handbuilding classes instead.
What is the age limit on handbuilding classes?
Handbuilding classes are designed for all ages, but children under 10 should be accompanied by an adult to help them out.
How do I book studio time?
Independent studio time can be booked through our website.
Why do I have to have a membership to book independent studio time?
Membership helps us maintain a safe, consistent community of potters. Members also get perks like discounted studio time and access to special events!
How do I cancel my studio membership?
You can cancel your membership anytime through your online account settings or by emailing studio@fridaypottery.com. Be sure to cancel before the next billing cycle to avoid additional charges.
Why do you never answer your studio phone?
We’re probably up to our elbows in clay! The fastest way to reach us is by email at studio@fridaypottery.com.
What’s the difference between the Beginner Pottery Wheel 4-week course and the Hobbyist Starter 4-week course?
The Beginner Pottery Wheel course focuses exclusively on wheel techniques, while the Hobbyist Starter course introduces both wheel and handbuilding methods, perfect for those who want to try it all.
Why can’t I take my pottery home the same day I make it?
Pottery needs to dry completely before it’s fired in the kiln. Skipping this step risks cracks and breakage during firing. Trust the process—it’s worth it!
Why do I have to come back to glaze my pottery?
Glazing is a separate process that requires your bisque-fired piece to be cool and ready for decoration. This second visit lets you get creative with your finish and ensures a properly completed piece.
How long does it take to fire my pottery?
Each kiln firing takes 24-48 hours, depending on the size of the load and the firing temperature. We bisque fire first, then glaze fire, so your pottery will spend up to 4 days in the kiln altogether.
Do you have walk-in hours, or do I always have to make an appointment to visit the studio?
Appointments are required for classes and studio time. However, you can drop by during open hours on Saturdays and most Sundays between 10 AM and 3 PM to pick up finished pieces or browse.
What’s with the telephone art installation on the back wall?
That’s a playful nod to the “missed calls” we get on our studio phone! It’s our way of blending art with a touch of humor.
Why are the prices for corporate classes different than kids’ parties?
Corporate classes are designed for team-building and often include additional services like catering, custom projects, and larger groups. Kids’ parties are simpler and more playful in structure.
What kind of kilns do you have?
We use electric kilns from brands like Olympic and Skutt, perfect for firing to Cone 6 for our studio needs. While our kilns fire to Cone 10, we do not fire to Cone 10 regularly to extend the life of our kilns and kiln elements. If you need to fire to Cone 10, we suggest reaching out to Oklahoma Contemporary.
What clays do you carry in the studio?
We stock a variety of moist stoneware, porcelain, and earthenware clays, including popular brands like Mammoth Clay Company, L&R, Laguna, and Seattle Pottery Supply.
Do you recycle unfired clay?
Absolutely! Unfired clay is rehydrated and reused whenever possible. Waste not, want not! By the way, reclaimed clay is great for practicing on the wheel and IT’S FREE TO USE! Take that, capitalism!
Do you sell TAKE-HOME clay?
Yes! We sell small 5 lb bags of clay perfect for home projects. Just ask during your visit or shoot us an email to check availability. We also sell in 25 lb bags and boxes if you’re working on a larger project.
Why do you require corporations with more than 1,000 employees to donate to the ACLU to book a group class?
We believe in aligning our work with our values. Encouraging donations is a way for us to support organizations fighting for equity and justice.
Can you fire clay I found on vacation or in my backyard?
While it’s a fun idea, local clay is unpredictable and can damage the kiln if it’s not processed correctly. For everyone’s safety, we only fire studio-approved clays.
Want more info? Ask away! We’re here to keep the clay talk rolling.