Best Pottery Classes NYC: Find Courses & Onsite Training

Learn More About NYC Pottery Courses

What is Pottery?

Pottery wares include anything from vases and mugs to plates and bowls, but the ceramics world extends far beyond vessels from which to drink and eat. Today’s potters and ceramicists make sculptures, home decor, and even jewelry, using their vast knowledge of clay bodies and glazing techniques to make both functional and aesthetic creations.

Historically, pottery predates the Neolithic period and can be traced in its varying forms throughout ancient Greece, China, and medieval times. Earthenware, used to describe a clay that is fired from a porous to solid state, dates back 9,000 years and is considered to be the first type of pottery. While today’s pottery looks a little different from the methods and materials used during earlier times, the longevity of this craft is a testament to its quality.

In its simplest terms, clay plus heat equals pottery, but it’s not quite so simple. Clay bodies, i.e., what the actual clay is composed of, vary from one clay to another and, therefore, must be treated accordingly. While some high-fire clays, like stoneware or porcelain, require more heat to become solid ceramic, other low-fire clays, like terracotta, don’t require as much heat or firing time. For clay to become pottery, it undergoes a significant chemical transformation, often reaching over 2000 degrees Fahrenheit inside a kiln for it to turn completely solid.

The truth is pottery is quite technical. From clay wedging and hand-building to glazing and kiln operation, there is much to learn. That said, the outcome is well worth taking the time to hone this timeless craft.

When it comes to a diverse art culture, few places compare to New York City. From Broadway theater to the Metropolitan Museum of Modern Art, New York City is positively bursting with artistic creation. For locals in the area or those looking to fill an itinerary for an upcoming trip to the Big Apple, a pottery course may be just the thing to (literally) sink your hands into this artistic atmosphere.

Why Learn Pottery?

Pottery has been celebrated for centuries and only made more popular by shows like The Great Pottery Throw Down, which excited a whole new generation of potters and encouraged more to partake in the art form. As one of the oldest forms of creation, this practice has withstood the test of time for good reason. While there’s an endless list of reasons why someone might want to learn pottery, here are a few of the immediate practical uses for professional and personal goals:

Build a Small Business

People love knowing they own something one-of-a-kind. In fact, in a survey released by Aytm, 81% of consumers reported they prefer buying handmade items, citing they wanted something “truly unique.”

Popular platforms like Etsy allow sellers to post their handmade wares online and sell through their easy-to-use application. While Etsy makes it super convenient to set up shop, communicate with customers, and reach a wide range of Etsy users, there’s no reason why someone who wanted to start a small business couldn’t post their products on their own website or reach a desired audience via social media. One of the major perks of starting a small business is getting to be one’s own boss and work at one’s own pace. So, for those who’ve learned pottery, why not start a small business and make some extra income while pursuing a hobby?

Decompress

The hustle and bustle of everyday life can be overwhelming, and it’s imperative to find healthy outlets, creative or otherwise, that allow for a bit of reprieve. As far as pastimes go, pottery has been known to be a great way to establish a mind-body connection, a way of describing the link between mental and physical states. Stress often sneaks up on people and makes them feel disconnected from themselves and reality, so having a way to re-establish that connection is immensely valuable.

Akin to other practices like yoga and meditation, pottery requires a certain element of mindfulness. In opposition to the chaos of everyday life, pottery forces people to slow down and respect the process with intention. In that way, Pottery is more so about the journey than it is about the destination or final product. The next time feelings of anxiety come up, consider giving pottery a try.

Give Handmade Gifts

Nothing quite compares to a handmade gift. Knowing someone took the time to make something personalized is truly special. For birthdays and holidays, consider replacing that generic candle with a hand-thrown mug, complete with a loved one’s name painted on it. There are so many easy gift options out there, but none quite as memorable (or likely to not get thrown out) as something made personally for them.

Meet New People

Tired of trying to make friends in the same old settings? Switch it up. Whether you’re looking to get good at pottery or not, joining a class is a great way to meet new people. It can be hard for adults to make new friends: a report released by SurveyFinds revealed that 45% of adults find it challenging to make friends. To curb this, attending a regular pottery course gives individuals the opportunity to meet new people in a low-stakes, creative environment. No matter what the end objective is, learning pottery presents the opportunity to join a community of people who are interested in similar activities.

What You’ll Learn in a Pottery Class?

As one of the more process-oriented art forms requiring artists to follow key steps to achieve desired results, there are many techniques and tools to be covered in a standard pottery course. That said, beyond the technical aspect of the creation process, partaking in a pottery course introduces certain soft skills as well, like following instructions, problem-solving, and practicing patience. Pottery courses range from beginner to more advanced levels, and so the subjects covered will differ by case. Here is a list of just some of the main, fundamental things students can anticipate learning in a standard pottery class:

Wedging the Clay

Preparation is key when it comes to clay. An artist can spend hours and hours on a single project only to have it blow up in the kiln, which is incredibly unfortunate. When this happens, it’s likely a result of unknown air still trapped in the clay that, when exposed to the high heat of the kiln, bursts, resulting in a broken pottery project (and likely damaging surrounding pottery in the same kiln load).

So, to prevent this from happening, artists use a technique called wedging to remove unwanted air bubbles before molding the clay. The goal of wedging is to ensure even consistency throughout. Artists achieve this by using a few different techniques, one of the most common being the ram's head method, whereby the artist moves the clay in a rocking motion and then presses it firmly down, repeating this process until all air bubbles are removed. Because kiln explosions do happen, wedging is typically one of the first things students learn in a class, as it affects not only their own pottery but also those of other students. Knowing how to wedge clay properly ensures the time and effort people put into their pottery projects are not wasted.

Wheel Throwing and Centering

Wheel throwing is one of the most mesmerizing processes. While the masters can easily throw a mug in a matter of minutes, it’s not quite as easy as they make it look. When it comes to throwing clay on a wheel, an important concept to master is what’s known as centering. If one’s clay isn’t aligned properly on the spinning wheel, the results will also be unaligned, uneven, and likely asymmetrical. Because of this, instructors dedicate time to showing students how to position themselves to successfully center their clay until it no longer wobbles and is ready to be pulled upwards into walls and formed into the desired shape.

There are many moving parts when operating a wheel, so there is an element of multitasking involved that takes practice to master.

Glazing Techniques

When artists coat, seal, or add color to their pottery, this is known as glazing. There are many different types of glazes, ranging from low, mid, and high fire, which come in a variety of colors and textures. One of the most important things to note when learning the fundamentals of pottery is matching up your clay body with the correct glaze type. For example, because they fire at the same temperatures, a low-fire clay would require a low-fire glaze, and a high-fire clay would require a high-fire glaze, and so on. In a standard course, students will likely be introduced to different glazing techniques, like dipping their pottery directly into the glaze or using brushes to paint on the glaze. Different techniques have different outcomes, so it all depends on the desired effect.

Hand Building

Unlike throwing, hand-building does not require the use of a wheel. As the name suggests, this type of clay formation refers to making creations with one’s own hands and tools. When learning basic hand-building techniques, students will become familiar with standard tools, including slab rollers, modeling, and texture tools, along with how to properly join two pieces of clay together through a process called scoring, whereby the points of contact between clay pieces are “scored” or scratched with tools and then bonded by adding a layer of slip to act like a sort of glue. Scoring is an essential step for making anything that has a handle or other added element. Without scoring, pieces would not stick to one another and would simply fall off after being fired in the kiln, which is not ideal.

How Long Will It Take to Learn Pottery?

Learning pottery depends on the desired level of mastery. For someone who is seeking to learn these skills for hobbyist use, the extent of the education could be a single course dedicated to learning the fundamentals. For those who are looking to become professional ceramicists, there is always the option to pursue a four-year degree. While introductory courses will cover the basics of hand building and wheel throwing, more advanced courses can cover topics like raku firing and mixing custom glaze recipes. There is a wide array of opportunities, and an individual’s pottery journey is truly up to them!

What are the Advantages of Taking a Pottery Class?

While attempting to learn pottery on one’s own is certainly possible, partaking in a class offers many advantages, including access to real-time instruction, kiln operation, and ample workspace.

Perhaps the biggest advantage of taking a pottery course is the access to real-time mentorship to guide individuals through the technical process and avoid common pitfalls. Sure, a YouTube video can show a step-by-step tutorial of how to throw a standard mug shape on a wheel, but if the course isn’t live, the person on the other end of the camera can’t offer real-time, tailored tweaks to help adjust one’s performance and ensure the mug is symmetrical. Pottery has a learning curve, and having the opportunity to ask questions will save time and resources (which can be pricey).

Another huge advantage to taking a dedicated pottery course is access to a kiln (and someone who knows how to operate that kiln).

Sure, one can buy the materials needed to make pottery, but then what? While it’s certainly an option to buy a kiln, they are expensive. Not to mention, in New York City, where space is already limited, it would be beneficial to have studio access where one can fire their wares safely. While air-dry clay is an option and does not require the use of a kiln, this type of clay is not food-safe, which eliminates a lot of projects, including mugs, bowls, and plates.

As noted, space in New York City is hard to come by, and unlike other hobbies and crafts that don’t take up much room, pottery does require a certain amount of workspace. Not to mention, pottery is essentially playing with mud, which does mean some mess, albeit the fun kind, is inevitably involved. By attending a class, you can utilize a dedicated work area without having to mess up your own living area.

Best Pottery Classes in NYC

Home to schools like New York University and the Fashion Institute of Technology, the Big Apple is known for many things, one of them being its diverse and expansive art scene. Because of this, New York City is a great place for beginner and advanced potters to take courses and hone their craft. For those looking to level up their pottery skills or for those simply looking for a fun way to meet new people, Here is a list of the best pottery classes offered in New York City:

3-Week Wheel Throwing Course: Hosted by Ceramics on 10th, this crash course is ideal for beginner potters looking to learn the basics of wheel throwing, glazing, and firing. With expert instruction, students will be given step-by-step guidance and receive live tutorials as they gain the fundamental skills required for successful wheel throwing. Given the three-week course structure, week one focuses on using the actual wheel, while week two focuses on trimming and smoothing out projects before glazing and kiln firing. Beyond throwing, students will also be introduced to various glazing techniques, including dipping and hand painting. At the end of this course, participants will be able to pick up their finished, fired products one week after the final class.

Hand Building Workshop: For those looking for a more intimate, smaller class size (about five to eight people), consider this hand-building course hosted by e.e.ceramics. Throughout the class, students will receive guidance from a personable instructor as they learn the fundamentals of hand building to create a customized bowl or mug. Previous participants of this course found that the instructor was particularly insightful and patient, noting how they assisted in helping students trust their artistic vision when bringing their creations to life. At the end of this course, students have the option to either pick up their projects in three to four weeks or have it delivered for an additional charge.

Clay & Slip & Sip: Let your creativity flow in this course hosted by Mud On My Hand. This class is a great option for anyone hoping to gain more experience in using slip, a watered-down clay slurry often used to create designs on pottery. Instructors will provide all materials and tools as well as hands-on instruction and guidance. Beyond the clay, this class offers participants snacks and drinks to enjoy while they create, making it an ideal option and atmosphere for those looking to meet new people in a creative setting!

One Day Wheel Throwing: Hosted by Choplet Ceramic Studio, this single-day wheel-throwing course is suited for all skill levels. In this hands-on workshop, students will receive expert instruction as they learn the basic techniques of throwing on the potter’s wheel. Upon completion of the course, students will be able to take home one of their creations, which will be cleaned, glazed, and ready for pickup approximately four weeks after firing. The cost of this course includes the instruction, clay, tools, towels, glaze, and firing of one project.

In a Glaze: One Day Intensive for Advanced Students: For those who already know the basics of pottery and are looking for something a bit more challenging, consider a course focused on all things glazing. A good course option for seasoned potters, this intensive course hosted by BKLYN Clay covers more advanced glaze applications, including glaze layering, post-glaze, refiring, and troubleshooting. Students who decide to partake in this course should note one of the requirements includes coming prepared with one’s own bisqueware, which must be rated for cone 6.

Hand-Building Ceramic Dinnerware Workshop: Learn how to create beautiful ceramic plates, charcuterie boards, and salad bowls in this hand-building workshop hosted by Bat Haus. While some dinnerware is made using a wheel, this is not always a requirement! Throughout this interactive course, instructors will show students how to build functional, handmade table settings with their own two hands. All skill levels are welcome to partake, and all materials are provided to participants.

Live Online Pottery Classes

While in-person classes offer an immersive learning environment and grant access to certain tools and resources, learning from home can be just as fun! For those who still want to partake but would rather do so in the comfort of their own homes or perhaps want to host a group of people in an online setting, there are a variety of virtual course options. Here is a list of a few live, online pottery classes:

DIY Hand Building Pottery: Hosted by Open Objects Studios, participants of this beginner-friendly course will receive a DIY kit in the mail before the virtual workshop begins. During this class, students will learn the fundamentals of hand building, including pinching and coiling methods to form whatever shape they please. Because participants will be using air-drying clay, there is no need for a kiln! DIY kits include all necessary materials, including paint and brushes, to decorate creations after they’ve dried. Given the nature of this live virtual workshop, students will be able to interact with the instructor and ask any questions along the way.

Pottery Workshop - Virtual: These days, many teams operate in remote settings, which can make it more challenging to build and foster professional relationships. What better way to establish connections and boost morale among team members than by getting creative and bonding over some clay? Hosted by Stuck in the Mud Pottery, this hour-long online workshop is a unique option for groups looking for a team-building activity. Before the course, each team member will receive an award-winning home pottery kit to ensure they have the materials they need to get started. Expert instructors will guide teams through basic hand-building techniques as they create clay pots, vases, or candle holders.

Fam + Friends Private Event: Hosted by Pottery with a Purpose, this online class is geared toward any family or friend gatherings, including, but not limited to, baby showers, bachelorette parties, and bridal showers. Participants will have the opportunity to partake in a collaborative sculpture or craft individual creations. Depending on an individual’s unique needs, attendees can either select one of the curated clay kits to be sent out to each participant or custom-make a kit tailored to the specific occasion.

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Key Insights

Learn More About NYC Pottery Courses

What is Pottery?

Why Learn Pottery?

Build a Small Business

Decompress

Give Handmade Gifts

Meet New People

What You’ll Learn in a Pottery Class?

Wedging the Clay

Wheel Throwing and Centering

Glazing Techniques

Hand Building

How Long Will It Take to Learn Pottery?

What are the Advantages of Taking a Pottery Class?

Best Pottery Classes in NYC

Live Online Pottery Classes

NYC Pottery Courses by School

e.e.ceramics

Hand Building Workshop

Choplet Ceramic Studio

Wheel Throwing Intensive

One Day Wheel Throwing

Wheel/Hand Ceramics Day Camp (Ages 6-14)

Pottery NYC

Pottery Wheel Throwing

Zerimar Clay

Pottery Wheel Throwing (Hell's Kitchen)

Ceramics Wheel Throwing Class

Centerpoint Ceramics

Handbuilding 6-Week Course

Ceramics on 10th

6-Week Long Pottery Wheel Throwing Course

NYC Pottery Corporate & Onsite Training Noble Desktop

Pottery Training Locations in or Near NYC

NYC Pottery
Corporate & Onsite Training