Ceramics Info & Studio Guidelines

Our Class Routine: Each 3-hour class consists of a 2.5-hour guided instructional period followed by a 30-minute closing period. We begin with a technical demonstration, followed by dedicated hands-on building time. The final 30 minutes are reserved for wrapping your work correctly to ensure proper drying for the next stage, alongside returning tools and keeping our shared studio neat. You will be able to pick up your pieces 3 to 4 weeks after the last session.

Please feel free to ask questions at any time. If you are wondering about a technique, chances are your classmates are too. Your insights and curiosity benefit the whole class!

Get ready for class by: trimming your nails so they do not scratch the clay, taking off rings and bracelets so clay does not get stuck in them, and putting on old clothes that you don't mind getting dirty. 

Please note that our courses are primarily taught in English, but our instructors are happy to provide guidance in French and Spanish as well!

Material and Tools: We provide all the materials and tools you will need for each session. You are welcome to bring your own special tools if you have something specific in mind! However, please note that the studio is not responsible for any lost or damaged personal items.

We trust our community to treat our studio and equipment with respect and care. While we expect normal wear and tear, any damage to major studio equipment (including pottery wheels, tables, and machinery) caused by misuse, negligence, or failure to follow studio guidelines will be the financial responsibility of the individual who caused the damage. In such events, a repair or replacement fee will be assessed accordingly.

Questions, and feedback: We welcome your questions and feedback at any time. You can chat with us in person or email us at ceramikerie@gmail.com. If you have any specific needs or accessibility requirements, please let us know so we can ensure you are as comfortable as possible.

Studio Safety & Dust Control: To keep our studio as safe as possible for everyone, please follow these essential dust control guidelines. Minimizing airborne dust helps protect our lungs from harmful silica particles.

Daily Cleaning & Prevention:

• No dry sweeping: Never use a broom to sweep clay dust. Only use wet mopping techniques to clean the floors without stirring up particles.

• Wipe down surfaces: Always clean tables, bats, and boards using clean, wet sponges or cloths.

• Wash equipment: Clean all pottery wheel parts, tools, and sponges thoroughly with fresh water.

• Manage fabrics: Do not shake out dusty aprons or studio towels inside. Shake them outside or wash them to keep dust out of the air.

• Prevent buildup: Avoid letting dry scraps or trimmings accumulate on surfaces.

Working with Dry Clay and  glaze:

• No dry sanding: Never sand or scrape dry pieces in the open studio. You may sand underwater or with a very wet sponge only.

• Glaze removal: When wiping dry glaze from the base of your pieces before firing, always use a wet sponge directly over a water container so that the glaze particles drop straight into the water instead of the air.

Note: We keep HEPA air filters running constantly to help maintain healthy indoor air quality.

Health, Safety & Release of Liability: By participating in any class, workshop, or open studio session at Ceramikerie, you acknowledge that working with pottery tools, equipment, glazes, and physical materials carries inherent risks. Participants agree to follow all posted safety rules and instructor guidelines.

To the fullest extent permitted by law, Céramikerie and its staff are not liable for any personal injury, loss, or property damage occurring on the premises or during studio activities. Attendees participate voluntarily at their own risk.