Business Details
26 Years
experience
Pottery Classes and Workshops in Louisville, KY
Payne Street Pottery was founded in August 2000 by Tonya Johnson, a dedicated ceramic artist and educator. With a Master of Arts in Ceramics and over two decades of teaching experience, Tonya combines her passion for functional pottery with a commitment to community engagement. The studio offers hands-on classes for all skill levels, from introductory Try-It sessions to structured 12-hour session courses. Private group events and team-building workshops cater to diverse audiences, while the on-site gallery showcases handcrafted ceramics for sale.Tonyas work emphasizes durability and aesthetic expression, reflecting her belief in pottery as both art and everyday utility. The studio also provides monthly rental space for experienced artists and participates in regional craft markets. Operating in Louisville, Kentucky, Payne Street Pottery remains a hub for creative exploration and artistic collaboration.
Services
Pottery Classes
Private Workshops
Gallery Sales
Studio Rentals
Team Building Events
Details
- Year established: 2000
Highlights and features
- Owner Tonya Johnson holds a Master of Arts in Ceramics with 25+ years of teaching experience.
- Flexible class formats include 12-hour sessions and 90-minute Try-It classes for all ages.
- Private group events accommodate birthdays, team-building, and educational workshops.
- On-site gallery features functional ceramics for sale, created by local and regional artists.
- Monthly studio rentals available for experienced potters seeking independent workspace.
Services
Pottery Classes
Structured pottery classes teach wheel-throwing techniques, glazing, and finishing processes. Students create personalized ceramic pieces under expert guidance. Sessions include 12-hour courses or single 90-minute Try-It classes for beginners.
Private Workshops
Custom private workshops accommodate groups of six or more for birthdays, team-building, or educational purposes. Activities include collaborative pottery projects and personalized instruction for all skill levels.
Gallery Sales
On-site gallery sells handcrafted functional ceramics by local artists. Pieces include mugs, bowls, and decorative items suitable for personal use or gifts, available during open house events or by appointment.
Studio Rentals
Monthly studio rentals provide experienced potters with unlimited access to equipment and kilns. Renters receive technical support while creating independent projects in a professional ceramic environment.
Team Building Events
Collaborative pottery sessions designed for workplace teams. Participants engage in hands-on projects to foster creativity, communication, and camaraderie in a relaxed studio setting.
People
Tonya Johnson
Owner/Teacher/Artist
Tonya Johnson holds a Master of Arts in Ceramics and has taught pottery since 1998. She founded Payne Street Pottery in 2000, combining her passion for functional ceramics with community education.
Questions
What types of pottery classes are available?
We offer 12-hour session classes (6-8 weeks) and 90-minute Try-It classes for beginners. Sessions include weekly meetings with all materials included.
Can I book a private event for a group?
Yes, we host private events for groups of six or more, including birthdays, team-building, and educational workshops. Contact us for scheduling details.
Are materials included in class fees?
Basic materials are included in class fees. Advanced students may incur additional costs for extra materials based on project complexity.
Do you sell finished pottery pieces?
Yes, our on-site gallery features handcrafted ceramics for sale, including functional items like mugs and bowls, available during open house events or by appointment.
What is the cancellation policy for classes?
A 48-hour notice is required for cancellations. Refunds are issued minus a $35 fee if notice is not provided within this timeframe.
Can children participate in pottery classes?
Try-It classes welcome participants aged 10+ with adult supervision. Session classes are for ages 16 and older. Advance notice is required for minors.
Reviews (7)
Wendy Linscott
Aug 04, 2021
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Ian was super helpful and helped us not feel anxious or embarrassed by our lack of skill. This was a lot of fun!
Scott Fargo
Jun 19, 2021
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Ian was a wonderful instructor. So positive and patient with our group. We all had a great time. We are looking forward to our next trip!
Dustin Link
Mar 21, 2021
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Absolutely enjoy our time! First time ever doing potery, date night bucket list checked off for wife. The instructor Amy was very patient and encouraging. If I may make a suggestion... I think if we would have gotten to keep one of our potery pieces that would have made the experience that much better, without the addition cost. Great job and thank you!!
Rhonda Drury
Jul 12, 2020
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It was awesome and Tonya was amazing. Patty was sweet and showed us around to look at other pieces as well.
Loved it!!!
Loved it!!!
Kenny Schindler
Jul 05, 2020
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Payne Street Pottery is such a cool place. Purchased a 2 hour class for my fianc and I. Shes hooked and already looking to book more classes. It took a while for me to get things shaped, but Caitlyn (sp?) was super helpful. Out of everything I was able to make 2 bowls, picked out 2 colors for glazing and in about a month get to come back and pick up. Everyone is spaced out and COVID protocols are followed. Bring a couple towels as it does get a little messy.
Tim Kaelin
Dec 17, 2019
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Training was perfect. Assistance while making the clay pots was very helpful. If you have not tried working with clay you need to go here. My Wife made the 4 on the left . I made the 4 on the right.
Liz Turner
Nov 29, 2019
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When I got a divorce, I didnt know what to do with myself or my time. I decided to pick up ceramics as a hobby. I mostly choose Payne Street Pottery because they had classes and you could bring your own alcohol to drink during it (always a perk). Not thinking it would stick because I lack artistic creativity, I have been taking classes for a year now and love it. Tonya and all who works there are funny, down to earth, encouraging, and make you feel welcomed. Always having a love for ceramics but never thought that I could be artistic enough to do it, until Payne Street Pottery. I tell anyone
