Frequently asked questions.
When are you open?
Our current schedule is “generally'“ as follows with the exception of breaks in our class schedule, cancellations or holidays. Please call ahead to verify we are open if you are coming to pick up your work.
Monday 10AM-9PM
Tuesday 10AM-9PM
Wednesday 12AM-4PM
Thursday 10AM-9PM
Friday 12AM-4PM
Sunday 12AM-5PM
Where can I park?
Parking is free downtown. If there are no spots available in front of the studio you can also find additional parking behind our building in the Dollar General parking lot.
When do classes open for registration?
Our classes open for registration two weeks before the start of the next session (i.e if the current session end date is Jan 8th, the next class that begins on Jan 15th will be posted and open for registration on Jan 1st). This allows existing students to decide if they want to register again and allows new students time to register. Our classes fill up very quickly and we encourage you to be ready!
Do you offer kid’s classes?
We currently do not offer kid’s classes. All participants must be 16+ to attend. We love kids… but just not in the studio ya know!
I missed a class! Help!
Of course this might happen…life happens. Students are able to make up 1 session during our independent open studio hours during the time of your 6 week class. (non transferable past course schedule, only one make up provided) If you wish to use the studio any additional hours ask your instructor about our open studio time for registered students.
I need to cancel my workshop or class, what now?
Click here to read our Cancellation Policy.
What should I bring?
The studio has the necessary tools for you to use. Clay and glazes are included in the cost of class. For wheel classes we ask that all students bring an old hand towel to drape over their laps and to dry hands throughout the studio working time.
Do I need to have clay experience?
Nope! We’ve designed our classes and workshops with beginners in mind. We added open studio time to the class so that you can practice what you’ve learned. There is no instruction during this time. But…questions will certainly be answered and the community of clay people have tons of great information to help you along.
What happened to my piece after I finished building it?
After class your creations will need to fully dry for a few days. Works will then be placed in the kiln for the first of two firings (called BISQUE). The second firing a glaze is applied and the work is fired to 2232 degrees to vitrify and flux the glaze. Kiln firings take up to 48-64 hours from loading to unloading. They will be on the ware shelves for pick-up. This takes on average 3-6 weeks and we will call you when your work is ready for pickup!
My first time taking a weekly class. What can I expect?
At your first class you will meet your instructor, discuss the course objectives, and get a tour of the studio and all the equipment. Then we begin working with clay, how to handle it and the care in process of making. Don’t expect a finished product the first week of class. The clay work has to go through a drying and firing process. Wheel working takes some practice…expect small gains the first few classes. The focus is on getting comfortable with the processes and techniques of clay. Each week we will expand to more complex forms and projects.
At the end of a six-week course, what can I expect to have accomplished?
Beginners can expect to create simple forms such as cylinders, small bowls or mugs. Intermediate/advanced potters can work on more complicated pieces. Talk to us regarding ideas you may have and we’ll lead you to success!
What should I wear to class?
Wheel throwing, handbuilding and glazing can be very messy. You will get dirty! The clay used in the studio will not stain your clothing. However, glaze can stain, so don’t wear your favorite shirt! If concerned about clothing please bring an apron or large covering. We do recommend wearing comfortable apparel. For your safety: Please remove any jewelry from your hands and wrists or dangling necklaces, prior to entering the studio. Long hair should be tied back. If your nails are long, trimming them will make your time on the potter’s wheel a lot easier. Closed toed shoes will keep your toes safe. Be advised that clay and glaze can spill on shoes.
Is the pottery I make safe to use?
All of our glazes and clay bodies are food safe. When using studio glazes please take care to follow all instructions and outlined safety measures. Please note, no outside unaccounted-for clay or glazes can be brought into the studio.
Do you offer firing services for at home potters?
We are not offering firing services at this time. Because there are many different clay types, each requiring specific firing temperatures and glaze formulas, all the clay used in the studio is provided by Belmar Clay Project. The studio clay and glazes are designed to work together successfully and with our kilns and firing temperature. (We fire between cone 5-6)
Why is my giftcard not working?
Unfortunately, we only can apply one gift card at registration. You can email us @belmarclayproject@gmail.com and we will apply any additional certificates to you purchase and refund you the amount of your gift certificate. We know this seems ridiculous, TRUST US, we wish our system let you apply multiple codes on one purchase.