Pottery Classes near Aurora

Aurora is one of the most diverse and expansive cities in Colorado, stretching from the busy urban stretch of Colfax Avenue to the open spaces of the eastern plains. It is also home to a thriving population of creatives, many of whom are searching for dedicated studio space and expert instruction. If that sounds like you, Claya is about 20 minutes west in Denver's RiNo Arts District, and our doors are open for beginners, returning potters, and everyone in between.

Why Aurora Residents Love Claya

Aurora has its own arts hub along Original Aurora's corridor of galleries and performance spaces, and that creative spirit translates beautifully to the pottery wheel. Claya gives Aurora residents access to a professional ceramic studio without having to invest in their own equipment. The commute is straightforward: about 20 minutes west on Colfax Avenue or I-70, depending on which part of Aurora you call home. Our class times are designed around working schedules, so you can make it part of your weekly routine without rearranging your life.

Classes and Membership

New to clay? Our Intro to Wheel Throwing is a six-week course that takes you from your very first pull to finishing glazed pieces you will be proud to use at home. Classes are capped at a small group of students so everyone gets hands-on attention from the instructor. When you are ready for the next challenge, Advanced Beginner Wheel builds on those foundations with more complex forms and decorative techniques. If you want to practice independently, our studio memberships come with your own keycode, are $140 per month, and include kiln access, personal storage, and full use of our glaze and tool library.

Getting Here from Aurora

Drive: about 20 minutes outside rush hour. From central Aurora, take Colfax Ave west, then head north on Downing St into RiNo and turn left onto Walnut St near 38th St. From the I-225 corridor or northeast Aurora, I-70 west to the Brighton Blvd exit is usually fastest, then follow Brighton southwest into RiNo. Claya is at 3440 Walnut St, Denver, CO 80205, between 34th and 35th.

Parking: street parking near 38th and Blake. Leave a little extra time on Friday and Saturday evenings.

Train: the A Line runs west from Peoria station, where the R Line from Aurora connects, straight to 38th & Blake. The studio is a short walk from there.

Local tip: the train is a low-stress way to make a weeknight class from Aurora. Park at Peoria and skip I-70 traffic both ways.

At a glance: six-week classes are $325, taught in small groups. Try the Pottery Wheel is one night for $60. Membership is $140 per month with a 2-month minimum. Studio hours are Monday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday 10 AM to 6 PM, and Sunday by appointment.

Before and After Class

One of the best parts about coming to RiNo for pottery is the neighborhood itself. Grab dinner at one of the restaurants inside Denver Central Market before class, or reward yourself afterward with a craft beer at one of the many breweries and taprooms that line the district. If you are new to RiNo, take a few minutes to walk the streets and soak in the murals. The whole neighborhood is a gallery.

For Aurora potters, our pottery studio in Denver is an easy trip west to 3440 Walnut Street in the RiNo Arts District.

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