Business Details
Your Local Pottery Cooperative for Classes & Handcrafted Ceramics
Clayworks is a pottery cooperative located northwest of Lansing, Michigan, dedicated to fostering artistic growth within a supportive community. We provide a platform for artists to create, share, and showcase their work through classes, workshops, and special events. Our mission emphasizes the value of collaborative creativity and the celebration of handmade art. With over a decade of experience in pottery education, our instructors guide students of all skill levels in techniques like wheel throwing, hand-building, and glazing. The studio maintains a welcoming environment where artists can access shared resources, including kilns and studio spaces during designated lab hours.Our retail store offers handcrafted pottery for sale, featuring unique pieces created by local artists. We host seasonal sales events and maintain flexible shopping options, including private appointments. The cooperative structure ensures members receive comprehensive support, including firing services and material supplies. Our commitment to quality craftsmanship is reflected in the durability and aesthetic appeal of every piece produced. Community engagement remains central to our operations, with social media platforms and email updates keeping patrons informed about upcoming classes and events.
Services
Pottery Classes
Raku Firing
Wood Firing
Gas Firing
Cone 6 Electric Firing
Highlights and features
- We offer pottery classes for all skill levels with professional instructors
- Our studio provides access to specialized firing techniques like Raku and wood firing
- Seasonal sales showcase unique handmade ceramic pieces from local artists
- Flexible studio access through scheduled lab hours and private appointments
- Cooperative environment fosters artistic growth and community collaboration
Services
Pottery Classes
Ten-week pottery classes teach wheel throwing, hand-building, and glazing techniques. Sessions include 50lbs of clay, glazes, and kiln firing. Students access studio facilities during lab hours with instructor guidance.
Raku Firing
Traditional 16th-century Japanese firing technique creates unique metallic and crackle effects. Involves controlled combustion process that produces one-of-a-kind surface patterns on ceramic pieces through chemical reactions.
Wood Firing
Labor-intensive process using wood-burning kilns for 20-30 hours. Creates distinctive surface textures through ash and flame interaction. Requires constant monitoring and precise stoking intervals for optimal results.
Gas Firing
High-temperature gas kiln firing at 2400F. Controlled oxygen-gas ratio produces rich glaze colors through carbon monoxide interaction. Achieves unique chemical effects unattainable with other firing methods.
Cone 6 Firing
Precision electric kiln firing between 2232-2264F. 13-hour firing cycle followed by controlled cooling. Produces durable stoneware with consistent glaze results suitable for functional pottery.
Questions
What pottery techniques do you teach?
We teach wheel throwing, hand-building, extruder work, glazing, Raku, wood firing, gas firing, and Cone 6 electric firing techniques.
Are classes available for beginners?
Yes, our classes accommodate all skill levels from beginners to experienced potters with personalized instructor guidance.
How can I purchase handmade pottery?
Visit our studio store during second Saturday hours (10am-2pm) or schedule private appointments for shopping.
What class schedule options exist?
We offer four annual terms with Tuesday morning (9am-12pm) and evening (6:30-9:30pm) class times.
Do you offer studio access outside classes?
Yes, lab sessions are available Tuesday noon-3pm, Thursday 6:30-9:30pm, and Saturday 9am-12pm for independent work.
What materials are included in class fees?
Class fees include 50lbs clay, glazes, kiln firing, and studio access during designated lab hours.
Reviews (1)
Deborah Wood
Aug 11, 2016
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This is a great place to shop for gifts or to take classes. Their members are very talented and helpful.
