Frequently Asked Questions & Answers
We receive many questions from new students who are joining our studio. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced potter, we’ve got your questions covered! In this section, we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions to provide you with all the information you need. We believe that pottery is not only an art form but also a delightful and fulfilling experience. That’s why we strive to create a warm and welcoming environment for everyone who walks through our doors. If you have a question or concern that isn’t covered on this page, please contact us and we’d be happy address any and all questions!
Are there any studio rules I should be aware of?
Yes! Please see our Studio Rules and Etiquette page for additional information.
Can I take pottery classes with no prior experience?
Absolutely! Creating an inclusive creative environment for all is one of our core values. We offer pottery classes to potters of all levels!
How do I pay for my classes?
We accept cash, check, Venmo, or Zelle. If you wish to pay using Zelle, please use our studio phone number: 845-781-6560. If you are paying via check, please make your check payable to Marilyn at Warwick Pottery Studio, 91 Waterbury Rd., Warwick, NY 10990.
What should I wear to pottery?
We encourage you to wear comfortable clothing and close-toed shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty or stained as clay and glaze can stain. We recommend keeping your jewelry or valuable accessories at home as clay could scratch or wear your jewelry down. Using an apron or pair of overalls is also recommended.
Do I need to purchase my tools?
You do not need to purchase your tools. We have a wide selection of tools from a variety of companies available at our studio! If you choose to purchase your own tools you are more than welcome to bring them into the studio but please make sure you bring them home with you, we’d hate for them to go missing!
Do I need to purchase my clay?
Yes, you are responsible for purchasing your clay from our studio as you need it. Our clay is $40.00 per 25lb bag and is available in white stoneware, red stoneware, and porcelain. We have dedicated storage bins in our studio to store your clay, this will keep you from having to transport your clay to and from the studio.
Do I need to purchase my glazes?
We have a wide selection of commercial and boutique glazes available at our studio. If you find yourself consistently using the same commercial glazes, we encourage you to purchase your own to keep in your personal pottery stash. Glazes must fire at Cone 6 and be food safe and non-toxic. If you wish to purchase your own glazes, please ask Marilyn to verify the glaze meets our studio requirements and provide the firing instructions and ingredient listing before making your purchase.
Can I gift classes to someone?
Yes! If you wish to gift classes to someone, please contact us to determine which classes are currently available. Payment is due on or before the first day of the semester.
How long is each class?
Each class is 3 hours in duration with each semester running for 6 weeks (18 hours total). Open studio time is available most Sundays from 1:15PM – 4:15PM costing $20.00 per session.
What skills do I learn in pottery classes?
In addition to learning how to create beautiful pots, pottery teaches you the importance and value of centering oneself, intention, and uniqueness. Pottery is a great way to get in touch with yourself.
Can I bring a friend?
Our classes and open studio time are open to currently registered students of our studio. We happily offer private and group lessons for those who wish to take classes with a friend or group.
Can I be refunded if I need to cancel my semester?
Please know that upon registration, materials and supplies are ordered for each student who comes into the studio. This happens within a week of the start date for each semester. Unless it is a true emergency, refunds will not be available within 72 hours of a semester’s start date.
Health, Mobility, and Pregnancy
The Warwick Pottery Studio and its staff want to keep the studio as healthy and safe as possible for everyone. Please know that we are extremely conscious and conservative when it comes to everyone’s health. While pregnant we are very cautious and ask that you not come into the studio. Though the clay is not an issue, chemicals, tools, spills, and wet floors could all be hazardous when nurturing your unborn baby. Please enjoy your pregnancy and do the best job you can… We’re happy for you! When your baby is here, please feel free to come back to classes! For any mobility or respiratory issues, there is an elevator that goes from the ground floor to the second floor where our studio is located. We encourage you to use the elevator if needed and will do all in our power to accommodate everyone.