Frequently Asked Questions
Please read our FAQs to answer common questions. If you don't find the answer to your question, please reach out to Cheryl at cheryl@clayfulpotters.com
I have no experience – can I take a workshop?
You are in the right place! We specialize in workshops for casual potters. We will teach you everything you need to know to complete the project you've signed up for. Once you've mastered the basics, you can take another class or join our Open Studio sessions. But all of our workshops are designed for casual potters.
What will I learn in your pottery classes?
You'll learn the basics of handbuilding pottery, including how to slip and score, attach handles, and prevent cracking. for the benefits of handbuilding, scroll down. You'll also learn the basics of glazing including dipping and painting, using transfers and underglaze.
Can my child take a class?
Yes, children can take our classes if they are 10 years or older. Any child under 16 must be accompanied by a parent/adult. It helps us to also know if a child is coming so if possible, please send us an email at cheryl@clayfulpotters.com to give us a heads up.
Are there more difficult projects to create once I’ve done the basics?
Yes, absolutely! We recommend you begin with a basic project. All of our workshops are rated with either "Basic" or "Advanced". Learning the basic skills on an easier piece will make the more advanced pieces more fun for you, and increases the odds of the piece turning out. There are so many ways that pottery can go wrong - in the drying phase, bisque or glazing phase. Increase your chances of a successful piece by learning the basics first.
What happens if my piece doesn’t turn out?
There is a saying in the pottery world - "Don't fall in love with your piece until it is out of the glaze kiln". And even then, something can go wrong. Clay is organic matter and as such, sometimes things don’t go as planned. There are several variables and stages that a pottery piece goes through before it is a finished product. Throughout those stages, the pieces may crack, glaze can run, etc. Don’t despair, we are here to help if we can. We all have fails, it happens. We call those “happy accidents”. Most times pieces turn out beautifully but the odd time, well it can be pretty disheartening. Even professional potters experience mishaps. Try and try again. It's all part of the fun!
Do I get to glaze my own piece?
Yes! The second workshop is for glazing after your piece has been through the bisque fire. We will stick to basic glazing techniques with either dipping or painting glazes, but can also get into using underglazing and transfers in some of our workshops.
When will I get my pottery back?
We will do our best to have your finished piece ready for pick up within two weeks of your second workshop. Certain circumstances may require more time, but we will communicate this with you. You'll receive an email when your piece is ready.
Can I organize a private party?
We love private parties! Having a group of friends get together to make pottery is a perfect way to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, bridal parties and just a fun night out. For more information, check out our page on Private Classes or contact Cheryl at cheryl@clayfulpotters.com.
What is your cancellation policy?
We understand that some things come up that won't allow you to attend the workshop you registered for. As we have limited space in our workshops, we do have a cancellation fee. For every cancellation there is an administrative fee of 5% of your registration fee. If you cancel less that one week prior to the workshop, you will be refunded 50% of your registration fee. If you cancel less than 72 hours prior to the workshop, you will be refunded 25% of your registration fee. Less than 72 hours notice will provide no refund.
What happens if I miss a class?
We will do our best to fit you into a similar class, but if the piece is not the same that may not be possible. As there are only two workshops in a session, you should be able to ensure that you can attend both. If it happens that you must miss one, please contact Cheryl at cheryl@clayfulpotters.com to try to make alternative arrangements. If we reschedule to a private session, there may be an additional fee.
What is the minimum age to take a class?
Students must be 16 or older, unless otherwise specified. Younger students age 10+ may enroll in the course with an adult, but please reach out to us before registering, if this is the case. You may email us at cheryl@clayfulpotters.com.
Benefits of Handbuilding
We offer handbuilding workshops only.
Handbuilding is often considered easier than wheel-thrown pottery for several reasons.
It allows us to design our workshops for casual potters where anyone can make a piece they are proud of!
Accessibility for Beginners:
Control and Flexibility:
Creative Freedom:
Handbuilding techniques, such as pinch pots, coil building, and slab construction, are more intuitive and easier for beginners to grasp. These methods require fewer specialized skills and can be learned quickly.
Handbuilding allows for more control over the clay and greater flexibility in shaping it. This method enables potters to work at their own pace and make adjustments easily. Wheel throwing requires coordination and speed, which can be challenging to master.
Handbuilding offers more opportunities for creative expression and experimentation. It allows for the creation of irregular and organic shapes that might be difficult to achieve on a wheel.
Lower Skill Barrier:
Reduced Physical Strain:
The learning curve for wheel throwing can be steep. It requires developing a sense of balance and rhythm, as well as specific hand movements to center the clay and shape it. Handbuilding techniques, on the other hand, can be learned and executed without these precise skills.
Wheel throwing can be physically demanding, requiring strength and endurance to control the clay on the wheel. Handbuilding is generally less physically taxing, making it more accessible to people of all ages and physical abilities.
Contact Us
Address
4220 Upper Dwyer Hill Rd.
Arnprior, Ontario
K7S 3G7
Contact
Hours
We are a workshop-based studio only and do not have drop in hours. If you wish to visit our studio, please email to make an appointment.
We service Ottawa and the surrounding area including Kanata, Stittsville, Pakenham, Arnprior, Kinburn, Carp, Almonte, Carleton Place, Renfrew, Pembroke and Petawawa.
