FAQs

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Do I need any experience to sign up for a class?

Not at all! Our beginner classes are designed specifically for people who have never touched clay before. You'll be guided through every step from the very first class.

What is the minimum age to take classes at Wheelhouse Pottery?

Classes are open to people 16 years of age and older at the time the class begins (without exception).

Students who enrol under the age of 16 will not be permitted to use the studio and will not be refunded.

What's the difference between the Beginner, Intermediate, and Mini Course options?

The Beginner course is an 8-week program ideal for those brand new to pottery.

The Intermediate course is for students who have completed a beginner session and want to build on their skills.

The Mini Course is a shorter introduction for those who want a taste of wheel throwing before committing to a full session.

Classes & Schedule

How long is each class, and how many weeks does a session run? Each class includes approximately 2.5 hours of working time plus about 30 minutes of clean-up, for a total of 3 hours.

What will I learn in the beginner 8 week course week by week?

Here's a breakdown of the 8-week beginner program:

Week 1: Introduction to wheel throwing — learning the basic steps for throwing bowls and mugs. Work from this week is not kept; the focus is on technique.
Weeks 2–4: Trimming and throwing — learning to trim excess clay and clean up your pieces, then continuing to throw new creations.
Week 5: Glazing fundamentals — learning about glazing and underglazing, and trying out your first fired pieces.
Week 6: Throwing and exploring hand-building.
Week 7: Trimming, finishing, and hand-building. All pieces must be finished and ready for the kiln by the end of this class.
Week 8: Glaze and finish — experimenting with dipping glazes, colour combinations, and different application methods.

What days and times are classes offered?
We offer mornings classes from 10:15-1:15 Monday - Thursday and Saturday
Evenings classes are Monday-Thursday 6:30-9:30
Current availability and start dates are listed on the registration pages for each class level.

How many students are in each class?

Class sizes are kept small, 8 or fewer ensure you get plenty of attention and support from your instructor.

What should I wear to class?

Dress for mess! Aprons are provided, but you will still get dirty including your shoes. Closed-toe shoes are required; no sandals in the studio. Long hair past the shoulders must be tied back when operating equipment, and it's best to leave jewelry and valuables at home.

Is clay included in the class fee, and can I purchase more?

Yes, one bag of clay is included in your class fee. If you need more, additional clay can be purchased at the studio: $30 for a 10kg bag of new clay, or $15 for a 5kg bag of reclaimed clay (subject to availability).

Can I take my unfinished clay home at the end of a session?

No — all unfired clay must remain at the studio at the end of your session. It will be reclaimed and repurposed. Finished pieces may be taken home after they've been fired and glazed.

Missed Classes & Cancellations

What happens if I miss a class? Unfortunately, we are unable to offer refunds or alternative class times for missed sessions. Please let your instructor know in advance so they can keep your work wrapped and workable for the following week.

What is your refund or cancellation policy?

If you cancel your 8-week course 10 or more days before the first class, you will receive a 100% credit toward a future course. Cancellations made with less than 10 days' notice will forfeit the full payment. No refunds are issued for missed individual classes.

What if Wheelhouse cancels a class due to illness or bad weather?

In the rare event that we need to cancel a class, we will do our best to accommodate everyone when we reschedule. If a rescheduled class isn't possible, a refund for the missed class will be issued.

Finishing & Picking Up Your Work

How long does it take for my pottery to be fired and ready for pickup?

Your finished pieces will be fired and ready for pickup within 3 weeks of your final class. We'll reach out by email once everything is ready.

What happens if I don't pick up my finished pieces?

We are not responsible for pieces left uncollected for more than one month after the pickup notification is sent. After two months, pieces will be discarded or added to our "free pottery" box.

Is my finished pottery guaranteed to turn out a certain way?

Pottery is a natural, artistic process and results can vary. The class fee covers the instructional experience and use of studio tools and materials not a specific finished product. There are factors beyond the control of the instructor and studio that can affect the final appearance and quality of your pieces, and this is part of what makes pottery so wonderfully unique!

Do you offer open studio memberships for independent potters?

Yes! We offer studio memberships for experienced pottery who want 24 hr access to the studio. Members must be able to work and clean independently. Visit our Memberships page for more details.

Can I bring my own clay or glazes to the studio?

No outside clay, glazes, or ceramic materials may be brought into or used in the studio.

How many pottery wheels does the studio have?

We have 12 wheels in total
(8 for class and student use, and 4 dedicated wheels exclusively for members.

What clay do you use at the studio?

Students work with midfire stoneware clay, a durable and versatile clay body well-suited to both beginners and experienced potters. Members have access to porcelain as well as a red clay.

Are private events or group bookings available?

Yes! We offer private events for groups. Visit our Private Events page to learn more and get in touch.

Do you offer gift cards?

Gift cards are available for purchase on our website and make a perfect gift for the creative person in your life!

Still have questions? Feel free to leave us a voicemail at (647) 600-7888 and we'll get back to you within 24 hours, or email us at mail@wheelhousepottery.ca.