Business Details
11 Years
experience
Professional Pottery Studio & Ceramic Classes
The Pottery Studio was founded in 2015 by Marshall Blair, initially as a small community space for ceramic artists in Atwater Village. Starting with a single gas kiln and a handful of potters, we expanded organically through demand, opening our first dedicated studio in Cypress Park in 2018. Today, we operate eight locations across the United States, including Brooklyn, Manhattan, Chicago, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. Each studio provides 24/7 member access, professional-grade equipment, and Cone 10 reduction or mid-range electric firing capabilities. Our team includes experienced ceramicists and educators who lead monthly classes for all skill levels while maintaining rigorous safety and quality standards.We prioritize community-building through open studio environments, offering over 25 glaze options and specialized kilns constructed by renowned builder Paul Geil. With over 8 years of combined operational experience across our leadership team, we maintain transparent pricing structures, clear communication channels, and adherence to industry best practices in ceramic arts education and studio management.
Services
Pottery Classes
Studio Membership
Ceramic Workshops
Kiln Firing Services
Clay & Supplies
Private Events
Wheel Instruction
Glazing Workshops
Handbuilding Classes
Open Studio Access
Details
- Year established: 2015
Highlights and features
- We offer 24/7 studio access with professional-grade equipment across eight locations
- Our studios feature specialized Paul Geil kilns for Cone 10 and Cone 6 firing
- Monthly classes available for all skill levels with experienced ceramicists
- We maintain over 25 glaze options and comprehensive tool libraries
- Membership includes free bisque firing and discounted glaze firing rates
Services
Pottery Classes
Our structured monthly pottery classes accommodate all skill levels from beginners to advanced ceramicists. Each session includes four lessons with professional instruction, unlimited access to studio equipment during designated hours, and all necessary firing services. Students receive comprehensive guidance in wheel-throwing techniques, glazing methods, and handbuilding processes while working with our premium class clay.
Studio Membership
24/7 studio membership provides professional workspace with access to wheel stations, handbuilding tools, and firing facilities. Members enjoy free bisque firing, discounted glaze firing rates ($1.25/lb), and exclusive use of 25+ glaze options. Membership includes personal storage shelves and equipment access for both hobbyists and production artists working in Cone 10 or Cone 6 firing ranges.
Kiln Firing Services
We offer professional kiln firing services using Paul Geil-designed gas reduction and electric kilns across all locations. Our Cone 10 reduction firing achieves traditional ceramic finishes while mid-range Cone 6 electric firing provides versatile glaze options. Firing services include proper ware placement, temperature monitoring, and safe unloading procedures conducted by experienced ceramic technicians.
Private Events
Custom private events accommodate group gatherings, corporate team-building, and special occasions. Our studios provide dedicated instruction, materials, and workspace for groups of various sizes. Events include guided pottery sessions with professional oversight, all necessary tools and clay, and finished piece firing services. Advance booking is required for all private reservations.
Clay & Supplies
Our studios supply premium clay bodies and ceramic materials for wheel-throwing, handbuilding, and sculpting applications. Members and students access commercial-grade tools, underglazes, and surface decoration materials. We maintain extensive inventory of both functional and decorative ceramic supplies including our signature canvas toolbag with organized storage compartments for personal equipment.
People
Marshall Blair
Founder
Marshall Blair established The Pottery Studio in 2015 after developing ceramic tableware for his restaurant business. With prior experience in culinary arts and restaurant operations, he transitioned to ceramic arts full-time, expanding the studio to eight locations while maintaining community-focused programming and professional-grade facilities.
Questions
Do you offer one-time pottery classes or private events?
We occasionally accommodate private events with advance booking. Contact us directly with your preferred dates and event details to discuss availability and requirements.
What's included in a month of pottery classes?
Monthly classes include four lessons, daily studio access (10am-10pm), use of class clay, tools, and equipment. Firing services and glaze options are included in the session price.
Can non-members use studio firing services?
Firing services are exclusive to members. We require a minimum one-month membership for firing access, with all work needing to meet our Cone 10 specifications.
How do I join as a studio member?
Membership requires in-person registration during shop hours (Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday 12-4pm). We'll provide studio orientation, set up your storage shelf, and issue access credentials during your first visit.
What equipment is available to members?
Members access wheel stations, handbuilding tools, work tables, and 25+ glaze options. All studios include professional kilns, storage facilities, and equipment for both functional and artistic ceramic production.
Reviews (5)
Rena S.
Aug 26, 2021
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When I started pottery a few years ago there were so few options to find a space to learn and grow as a potter that was NOT confined to a set time and schedule. I have such a changing work schedule I needed a place that would allow me to go work when I wanted to work with clay. Then I saw this studio had opened up a very large space in the valley!! This place has been a godsend for me especially over the last two years!! The people are so great who run the place and they make sure it is a safe space for all who want to go and learn and explore life with clay! I cannot recommend the pottery studio
Summer R.
Aug 26, 2021
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I just took my first class -- Beginners on the Wheel -- with Anna, and it was SO MUCH FUN. Anna is a wonderful and casual teacher. She made the whole experience approachable and not intimidating at all, which was great because my 6-person class was composed of newbies like me. The studio access for enrolled students was impressive! You can get into the studio to practice outside of class 10am-10pm daily as often as you like while you're taking a class. And you have full access to wheels, tools, clay, and glaze, which was amazing! On the COVID front: It's an open airy space with good
Paul S.
Aug 26, 2021
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Just about to finish taking a "Beginners on the wheel" class at the Cypress Park/2808 Elm St location. We accidently booked a more advanced class and they switched us around to the beginners class without any problem. The class was a good mix of being challenging and practice time, but it does cover a lot and you have to be focused to keep pace. While you're a student you can come in outside of class time and still have access to one of the wheels and free clay (open 24 hours but students only have access 10am-10pm I think) which was great in case you want to practice. They
Ali L.
Aug 02, 2021
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I just took my first round of classes at The Pottery Studio in Cypress Park and LOVED it. The instructor, Olivia, was really encouraging and kind, and everyone at the studio is really helpful if you're struggling and need advice. The best part is the practice hours - as long as you're signed up for a class, you can come in anytime between 10 am and 10 pm to practice on the wheel, and you have access to all of the class supplies and studio glazes. Everyone respects COVID guidelines and gives each other space. Can't wait for my second round of classes!
Allison G.
Jul 26, 2021
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24/7 access and lots of nice/interesting potters. I've been a member for many years. Yes, every ceramics studio has a different vibe, I would say this one is 'open', not just 24/7 but in that everyone does their own thing artistically, there are amazing experts and those just starting out. Sometimes the size of the studio and range of expertise can leave newcomers feeling a bit awestruck, but it all shakes out and eventually it feels like 'home'. Kelley (the studio manager) works very hard to listen to concerns and suggestions to improve firing, glazes, etc... and kept
