Pottery Classes FAQ | Claya Denver

Pottery Classes FAQ

Everything you need to know about taking pottery classes at Claya in Denver.

What's included with my class?

Everything you need: Clay, all tools, glazes, aprons, kiln firing, and a personal shelf for storage during your session. You also get studio access outside of class hours to practice on your own.

Do I need any experience?

Not at all. Our Intro to Wheel Throwing class is designed for complete beginners. Your instructor walks you through every step — wedging, centering, pulling walls, trimming, and glazing. Most students are throwing recognizable bowls and cups by week 3.

How long is a class session?

Each class meets once per week for 6 weeks. Sessions run 2 to 3 hours depending on the class:

  • 2.5-hour sessions — 15 hours total instruction (most Intro classes + All Level)
  • 3-hour sessions — 18 hours total instruction (Monday evening Intro, Intermediate, Handbuilding, Thrown & Altered)

Plus unlimited practice time during open studio hours outside of class.

How many students are in a class?

Classes are capped at 12 students to ensure everyone gets hands-on attention from the instructor.

What should I wear?

Comfortable clothes you don't mind getting a little dirty. We provide aprons, but clay can splash. Shorter sleeves work best at the wheel, and you might want to leave rings at home so they stay clean.

Can I buy more clay if I run out?

Yes. Additional clay is available for purchase at the studio. Your included 25 pounds is usually enough for the 6-week course, but if you're practicing a lot during open studio you may want more.

Do I get studio access outside of class hours?

Yes. On the first day of class you'll receive a key-code that gives you access to the studio during open hours. The code is active for the duration of your 6-week session. You can come in and practice whenever the studio isn't being used for another class.

What happens to my finished pieces?

After your final class, your glazed pieces go into the kiln for firing. Firing takes about 1-2 weeks. We'll email you when your work is ready for pickup. All firing is included in the class price.

Can I reschedule or cancel a class?

Yes. Use our cancellation page to cancel a class. Cancel 5 or more days before class start (cutoff: 11:59 PM Denver time on the day 5 calendar days before class day) for a full refund. Cancel less than 5 days before class start for full store credit toward any future class, tool, or membership. To reschedule, the easiest way is to cancel your current class and re-book a different time on our classes page — your refund or store credit makes the swap simple.

What if I want to keep going after my 6-week class?

You have two options: sign up for another class (like Intermediate Wheel Throwing if you took Intro), or become a studio member. Members get 24/7 key-code access, personal storage, and unlimited use of all wheels and glazes, free bisque firing, glaze firing free up to 250 cubic inches per month, then $0.05 per cubic inch (allowance resets monthly, no rollover), and clay available for purchase at near-wholesale prices for $140/month. Email info@clayastudios.com or sign up online.

Where is Claya located?

3440 Walnut Street, Denver CO 80205 — in the RiNo Arts District. Street parking is available near the studio on Walnut Street. Get directions.