Business Details
28 Years
experience
Paint Your Own Pottery Studio in Traverse City
Handz On Art has been a cornerstone of creative expression in Traverse City, Michigan for over 25 years. Established in 1998, our paint-your-own-pottery studio provides a welcoming environment where individuals of all skill levels can explore their creativity. We specialize in transforming blank bisque pottery into personalized masterpieces, offering an extensive selection of items ranging from mugs and platters to figurines and ornaments. Our inclusive pricing model eliminates hourly charges, allowing guests to work at their own pace and return to complete unfinished projects. With flexible walk-in hours and dedicated event hosting for groups up to 100+, we cater to families, couples, and organizations seeking unique artistic experiences.Our team of experienced artists provides hands-on guidance while maintaining a relaxed atmosphere that encourages self-expression. We offer nationwide shipping for out-of-town visitors and maintain partnerships with local businesses to enhance community engagement. As a family-owned studio, we prioritize creating lasting memories through art, evidenced by generations of customers who return annually to continue their creative traditions.
Services
Pottery Painting
Event Hosting
Nationwide Shipping
Gift Creation
Art Classes
Details
- Year established: 1998
Highlights and features
- 25 years of experience fostering creativity in Northern Michigan
- No hourly charges - work at your own pace
- Nationwide shipping available for completed pieces
- Hosts private events for groups up to 100+ participants
- Inclusive pricing includes all materials and studio time
What people say
Creative freedom
Welcoming environment
Multi-generational fun
Exceptional customer service
Lasting keepsakes
Services
Pottery Painting
Create personalized ceramic masterpieces using our extensive collection of bisque ware and professional-grade materials. Guests select from thousands of pottery items, choose from 40+ glaze colors, and use stencils, stamps, and templates to bring their vision to life. Completed pieces are kiln-fired and available for pickup or shipping within two weeks.
Event Hosting
Host memorable celebrations in our 2,500 sq ft studio accommodating groups from 6 to 100+ participants. Ideal for birthdays, corporate team-building, bridal showers, and school field trips, we provide dedicated event spaces, flexible scheduling including after-hours options, and assistance with food/drink arrangements for special occasions.
Nationwide Shipping
Ensure your creations reach you anywhere in the continental US through our secure packaging and shipping service. For $25 per household, we professionally pack completed pieces and coordinate delivery within three weeks of completion, with tracking provided for every shipment.
Gift Creation
Craft meaningful heirlooms including handprint tiles, family platters, and commemorative ornaments. Our studio specializes in creating personalized gifts for grandparents, milestone celebrations, and family traditions, with techniques that preserve memories in durable ceramic form.
Art Classes
Learn pottery painting techniques through guided sessions with experienced artists. Our open-studio format allows self-paced learning with access to design tools, color theory guidance, and technical support for both individual projects and group instruction.
People
Julie O'Hearn-Cox
Owner
Julie founded Handz On Art in 1998 and has built it into a Northern Michigan institution. With over 25 years of experience, she has created a community hub for artistic expression, hosting thousands of events and preserving family traditions through ceramic art.
Questions
What are your current operating hours?
We're open Wednesday-Friday 11am-6pm, Saturday 11am-4pm, and Sunday 11am-3pm. Closed Mondays and Tuesdays.
Can I host a private event at your studio?
Yes! We accommodate groups of 6+ with reservations. Large groups (10+) can arrange extended hours for private events.
Do you offer pottery classes?
Our open-studio format provides hands-on guidance from artists. No formal classes, but staff assist with techniques during regular sessions.
How long does pottery firing take?
Completed pieces are ready for pickup or shipping within 10 business days after painting.
Can I bring outside food to my event?
Yes, we welcome outside food and beverages for private events. Refrigerator and serving space available.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept cash, credit cards, and Apple Pay at our Traverse City studio location.
Reviews (7)
Travis Mandenberg
Jan 08, 2022
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It was a relaxing experience that I was happy to share with my sister. It took me about 2 hours to paint an ornament because of my perfectionism, but I had fun and got to be creative. My family doesn't have a whole lot of holiday traditions, but I would be happy if we could do this at least once a year.
Michelle McKenzie
Apr 16, 2021
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It was a little pricey, especially with shipping, but it was a fabulous experience. My sister and I agreed that we would definitely do this again! The owner was kind and helpful, and there were so many ways to express your creativity through pottery painting
Kaitlin Hairston
Aug 11, 2020
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Our family had a wonderful time. Our rainy vacation day was saved. Mom, grandma, two teenage girls, and two young boys all had a blast with our creations!
Meg Smith
Jun 30, 2020
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I have been here on multiple occasions with both adults and small children and every time has been an excellent experience. The selection is outstanding and our painted creations always turn out to be treasures. Weve made some fun memories here and look forward to making more
Karianna Wilson
Sep 04, 2019
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Loved it! Kids had fun painting and the woman who helped us was super sweet! Can't wait to go back in a week to pick up our finished products
Kendra Hoggard
Nov 23, 2018
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Such a happy little place. I love going here, and have brought several friends in with me. Definitely kid friendly. I have made many projects now, and am allowed to leave it and come back to work on it whenever I please if it's not finished in one day. Lots of windows for natural light. Many color choices for paint, and lots of supplies. The lady that runs this is super nice and helpful as well.
Bryan Boettcher
Aug 04, 2018
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A locally owned, family friendly experience. I've never had a bad time here, even when my kids were being difficult. This is the perfect place to make a personalized gift, create something with your kids to cherish forever, of just head out for a date night! The proprietor of the business is amazing at remembering your name and what you made as it does take some time between creating the art and picking up the final "fired" and finished product. I was overcharged and almost a week later the owner recognized me and had my refund ready (though I didn't even notice the overcharge) and apologized