Frequently Asked Questions
Your questions, answered. Everything you need to know before getting your hands in clay. DM on Instagram or send us an email by filling out the form on our contact page.
FAQs
Pottery Pick Up Hours
When can I pick up my pottery?
Firing ceramics takes time. Your piece will be ready approximately 3 weeks after your class.
Please mark your calendar, as we are unable to check the status of individual pieces due to volume.
Pickup details can be found on our Contact page.
How long will you hold my piece for if i can't make it on time!
We understand that not all aspects of life move at the pace of ceramics, and are happy to hold finished pieces up to 2 months past your class completion date.
Why didn't you return my call inquiring about my pottery pieces?
We work to ensure that everything is ready 3 weeks after your class.
Due to the volume of inbound requests, we are unable to individually check on your pieces, and appreciate your understanding.
Some pieces are missing! What do I do?
Part of learning ceramics is about learning to let go to the pieces that don't make it off the wheel, or out of the kiln. It's a part of the process.
Pottery is volatile as a medium - meaning that it's fired at exceptionally high temperatures and any number of things could occur that would mean your pieces don't make it out of the kiln.
If you're missing some pieces in your pickup please do let us know, but it's likely due to breakages in the kiln, or pieces that could have lead to explosions in the kiln.
While our team does everything we can to ensure we are able to get your pieces to their home, breakages like this are covered in our Studio Policy.
About Our Classes
Do you offer single pottery classes?
Yes! We offer single classes unless stated otherwise on the individual listing.
Do we get to paint our pieces?
Yes, we offer underglaze paints for all of our classes, please be mindful of time!
Do we glaze our pieces?
No, we apply a clear glaze for you before we fire it in the kiln.
Do you offer Pottery Courses?
Yes! We offer 3 week, 4 week and 8 week courses for those who want to master their craft! Check out our courses here.
What is the difference between Table Wheel and the Pottery Wheel?
Our unique Table Wheels classes start you on the wheel, then invite you to add your personal touch using handbuilding techniques. This is a standing class at regular table height. Traditional wheel classes use larger wheels where you are seated and follow a more classic pottery setup.
I've never done pottery before, does that matter?
Not at all. All of our classes are designed for all levels. You can work at your own pace, and our instructors will be there to support you. We recommend starting with our 2 hour wheel or handbuilding classes.
Can I tip my instructor?
Yes, tipping is greatly appreciated. To recognize the hard work of our staff, cash tips are encouraged. Please note that we are a completely cashless site, so if you wish to leave a gratuity, please bring cash with you.
What do I bring to Class?
We recommend you bring an apron, a small hand towel and clothing you don't mind getting a little dirty! All the necessary tools and equipment will be provided to you at the studio.
I can't attend one week of my multi-week class
Due to the nature of our class scheduling, we're not able to offer make-up classes. Please be sure to book a class block that works for your entire schedule.
Open Studio Membership
Who is Open Studio Membership for?
Open Studio is available to potters with a minimum of 3 months of experience who can work independently without guidance.
Participants must commit to at least 3 months, understand proper studio cleaning procedures, and complete a studio tour and orientation prior to joining.
Can I cancel anytime?
All memberships have a 3 month minimum commitment. Cancellation requires 30 days’ written notice.
What are the Firing guidelines for Open Studio Membership?
Have access to one full glaze-firing shelf per month (maximum height of 8 inches)
Firing Add-Ons
Additional firing space beyond the included monthly shelf is available at the following rates:
• Quarter shelf: $13
• Half shelf: $22
• Full shelf: $45
Height Surcharge
• Pieces taller than 8 inches (20 cm) are subject to a $5 surcharge for every additional 4 inches of height.
Firing Process and Turnaround
• Firing turnaround time may take up to 3 weeks and may be faster or longer during peak periods.
• A firing request form must be submitted to the studio technician prior to firing any piece.
• The studio is not responsible for breakage, cracking, explosions, or final firing results.
• Fired work must be collected promptly. Unclaimed pieces left longer than 4 weeks may be discarded.
What are the Glazing guidelines for Open Studio Membership?
• Studio glazes must not be altered or modified.
• Members may bring their own glazes. All outside glazes must be tested on a tile prior to firing, and test tiles must be approved by the studio team.
• Outside clay and unapproved glazes are not permitted.
• The bottoms of all pieces must be kept clean. A $10 cleaning fee will apply for glaze drips.
• A cookie or stilt must be used when testing runny or unknown glazes. A $10 cleaning fee will apply if glaze drips occur.
As a member, can I buy extra clay?
• Clay is available for purchase in-studio at $45 per 10 kg sleeve.
• Members may bring their own mid-fire (cone 6) clay with prior approval. Tuckers or PSH clays are recommended.
• Clay from other manufacturers must be approved by the studio technician before use.
• Black and red clays are not permitted.
How much storage space do I get?
• Membership includes one personal storage shelf measuring 80 × 50 cm.
• An additional half-shelf may be available for $25 per month, subject to availability.
• All in-progress work must be stored on your assigned shelf.
• Finished pieces must be picked up within 1 week to maintain proper shelf rotation.
• Members are responsible for thoroughly cleaning their station after each session.
Can I access both studio locations with my membership?
No, membership access is limited to one studio location only, either Richmond or Dundas.
Membership Commitment and Billing Policies
• A minimum 3 month commitment is required.
• Memberships are billed monthly online
• A minimum of 30 days’ notice is required to cancel after the initial 3 month commitment is completed.
• Membership fees are non-refundable.
• Membership hours do not carry over from month to month.
• Missed sessions are not credited or refunded.
• Memberships are non-transferable and may only be used by the registered member.
• The studio reserves the right to terminate a membership after two warnings in accordance with studio policies and the membership agreement.
Private 1:1 Pottery Sessions
What is Private 1:1 Pottery Sessions?
Our Private 1:1 Pottery Sessions let you book a junior or senior instructor by the hour for focused, hands-on support. Enjoy tailored guidance designed to help you learn, grow, and master your craft in a private 1:1 environment.
Who is this for?
All levels are welcome!
Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to refine your wheel or handbuilding skills, your instructor will tailor the lesson to your goals, techniques, and creative style.
How do I book?
Visit our website, click the drop down menu under classes and select Private 1:1 Pottery Sessions. Fill out the form. We will be happy to schedule you in!
Kids Programs
How many weeks does the after school kids programs run for?
After school programs run Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 4-5:30pm. You can enroll your child for both days or just one. Jan classes are running for 3 weeks due to holiday closures. Otherwise, all programs run for 4 weeks long.
Schedule
Group 1: Tuesdays
Group 2: Wednesdays
Booking Options
• Once a week — choose Tuesdays or Wednesdays
• Twice a week — join both days for extra clay time
How old does my child have to be for the After school kids program?
Ages 6-12.
We also have a teens class available if they're above 12 years old!
How old does my teen need to be for the Teen Series Program?
Ages 12-16.
Paint Your Own Pottery
Where did the pottery come from?
The pieces are all handmade by our instructors. So unlike some other Paint Your Own Pottery experiences, we don't offer mass produced pieces to paint. There's so much variety and they are all one of a kind!
What does the $23 fee include?
This price includes the workshop, your seat, one small piece! You can purchase more items (and larger ones) once you're in studio.
Can I come in to paint a pottery piece at any time or does it have to be in a designated workshop time?
All pieces must be painted during class. Please be mindful of time to ensure you have enough time to finish painting your piece.
Studio & Cancellation Policies
My schedule changed, can I cancel my class?
We would be happy to reschedule you to a class at a future date that works for you, or offer you a class credit! (as long as we have 72 hours notice). Please note we don't offer refunds.
Can I reschedule my class for another date/studio?
You can reschedule free of charge up to 72 hours before your class directly through your class confirmation email.
Please contact us to reschedule a class with less than 72 hours notice. Rescheduled classes with less than 72 hours notice are subject to a rescheduling fee.
Why do I have to bring my own apron?
We ask our students to bring their own aprons for two main reasons: to reduce waste and to prevent cross-contamination.
By bringing your own apron, you are helping us reduce the amount of water, energy, and detergent that we would need to wash and dry the aprons after each use. This way, we can minimize our environmental impact and save resources.
By bringing your own apron, you are also ensuring that you are not exposed to any potential allergens, germs, or stains that might be present on a shared apron. This way, we can maintain a high standard of hygiene and safety for everyone
I am running late, will I still be admitted to class?
Seating late arrivals is left to the discretion of the instructor. We know how disappointing it might be, but pottery is a hands-on activity that requires preparation and attention. If you arrive late, you may miss important instructions, demonstrations, or safety guidelines that are essential for your learning. Also our classes are social and collaborative which involves sharing and respecting the space, equipment, and materials with other students and instructors. If you arrive late, you may disrupt the flow and the learning of others in the class.
All classes start on time.
We understand that sometimes things happen that are beyond your control, and we appreciate your communication and cooperation in such cases. However, we also have to respect our policies and schedules, and ensure that everyone has a positive and rewarding experience at Clay With Me. Therefore, we reserve the right to refuse admission to late arrivals, and we do not offer refunds or rescheduling for missed classes.Â
Studio Policy
Please check our our Studio Policy for more details on booking, pick up and classes.
All About Our Clay
Are the finished pottery pieces foodsafe?
Yes! All of our glazed pottery is food safe, dishwasher safe, oven & microwave safe. After you've decorated your Paint Your Own Pottery pieces, we'll clear-glaze them for you to make them food-safe and durable.
What kind of clay do you use at Clay With Me?
We use white or beige speckled cone 6 stoneware clay at our studios.
Do you sell clay or offer firing services?
All of our supplies and tools are for use in studio only. As such we don't offer supplies for purchase and use outside of the studio - this includes clay, tools or glazes. We don't offer firing services.
Gift Certificates
Do you have ecards?
We're excited to offer ecards that can be emailed to your gift recipient for booking a class of their choice!
Check out our options here.
Do you offer physical gift cards?
Yes! You can purchase physical gift cards in studio.
Send us an email
Faqs
Questions?
Studio Policy
Get in touch
Fill out the form on our Contact Us page