Each class includes step-by-step instruction, clay, tools, choice of glaze color, and post-production of your pots (bisque and glaze firing). These classes are non-private, group classes. Others will be taking the class with you and the instructor will be moving everyone at the same pace.

Your instructor preps the wheel area, clay, and tools ahead of time. After a short intro and demo, students receive step-by-step instructions on how to make and design a pot on the wheel. For these classes, we focus on making a bowl or a smaller pot that is best for beginners of all levels.

At the end of class, the instructor will guide everyone through a quick clean-up. Students will then get to choose a glaze color for their piece.

Your pots stay at the studio and staff handle all the post-production - glazing and firing. Once every pot in your group is finished, the staff will contact you for pick-up.

**Please allow 6-8 weeks for your pottery to go through the entire firing process. Scroll further to read the Student Waiver*

During the week, parking is street 2 hours metered and non-metered parking so pay attention to the signs. On weekends, select parking is available in our backlot. We suggest rideshare for larger groups or if you don’t want to deal with street parking Monday - Friday.

Please respect your instructor and the others in the studio - put your phones on vibrate, silent or lower the volume. Take all phone calls outside if needed. We encourage everyone to put their phones away completely and be fully engaged in the class to get the most out of it.

Don’t worry, we’ll make sure you get your pictures and videos.

Come dressed comfortably! Please tie back long hair and remove any nice jewelry or watches. They won’t get damaged, but clay can be a pain to clean off. Bitter Root Pottery is not responsible for your jewelry or personal belongings. While the clay does wash out, we recommend wearing clothes you don’t mind getting a little dirty. We do provide clean aprons for everyone.

We also don’t recommend wearing tight or long dresses or skirts, as you’ll need to sit close to your wheel and move freely.

You're more than welcome to bring a change of clothes for after class if you’re headed to your next destination!

Please allow at least 4-6 weeks for your pottery to complete the firing process. Staff will contact you via text message or email when everyone’s pottery in your group is ready to be picked up.  From the time of your contact, you have 30 days to come pick up your pottery. After 30 days, your work may not be available for pick-up as we need to clear room for new student work.

Occasionally, pieces do not make it through the firing process due to air bubbles, construction issues, etc. Occasionally, firings do not go as planned - shapes may warp slightly or glazes may come out different than expected. Staff cannot control the results of firings once a pot is in the kiln. This is simply the nature of the imperfect ceramic process. Completed, “perfect” pots cannot be guaranteed.

REFUNDS WILL NOT BE ISSUED IF YOUR PIECE DOES NOT MAKE IT.

You are coming to Bitter Root Pottery for the whole experience of working in a ceramics studio with a knowledgeable, friendly instructor! Our instructors have been working for years in this discipline to learn its many nuances and to get to the skills they have today. These skills cannot be imparted in one 2 hour session. So, while you may have ideas of creating a perfect bowl, we encourage you to set those expectations aside and focus on enjoying the entire experience of working with clay and engaging in the creative process in such depth.

ARRIVAL

To make the most of your private booking, please ensure your party arrives 15 minutes early. Unfortunately, we cannot extend your time if you arrive late.

DEPARTURE

We kindly request that your group departs no later than 10 minutes after your booking concludes. Other reservations are scheduled before and after yours, and our staff need time to clean between sessions. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation!

Food and beverages are welcome for parties and private events. Please keep in mind that we do not provide additional time for sit-down meals and drinks; the pottery class will occupy the entire allotted time. There are many nearby restaurants you can enjoy before or after your event!

If you plan to bring cake, food, or drinks, please coordinate with us so we can offer the best recommendations. Without prior arrangements, our staff may not be able to accommodate your needs. For specific protocols and suggestions, please contact us before planning to bring anything to your event. Remember, the focus will be on the pottery class, and everyone’s hands will be covered in clay throughout!

You are welcome to bring light balloons or small decorations. However, please note that we cannot hang items, rearrange furniture, or make any changes to the studio space. Additionally, our staff will not accept deliveries or decorations on your behalf when you are not present. We are also unable to accommodate arrivals more than 15 minutes prior to your class. Please refrain from having anything delivered to the studio. Remember, the main focus is on getting creative with clay! If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us.