Adult Class Policies
To help you get started, please take a look at the following information before you attend your first class! Your instructor is available for any questions you may have, or please feel free to call, email, or speak to a staff person in person.
This is a partial list of the policies. Your instructor will go over additional tips and guidelines in class.
We'll do everything we can to keep you informed of all expectations so you can have the most pleasant and rewarding experience. If at any time you have questions or concerns, please call or stop by to discuss things directly with the Studio Manager. Thanks and have a great class!
Please CLICK HERE for information about Clay and Firing Fees.
Class Policies & Information
-- Adult class fees include instruction, shared tools, and materials. Some classes also include use of the studio during Open Lab hours.
-- Open Lab is reserved for students currently enrolled. Sign up information will be sent directly to students.
-- We provide basic tools and materials. You can purchase your own beginning pottery toolkit and various tools at the Lab, online, or at local suppliers such as Guiry’s, McGuckin Hardware, Joann’s, or Michaels.
-- If you wish to have one, please bring an apron and a towel for clean up.
-- If you bring your own towel, apron, or tools, you will need to take those out of the studio when you leave each time. You may want to bring a plastic or water-proof bag for wet items.
-- For your safety, please do not wear open-toed shoes. Kick wheels, kilns, and other equipment can be a safety concern.
-- You may attend only the class for which you are registered. If you miss a class, you will not be able to attend a different class as a make up. Please read the Frequently Asked Questions for more information about missed classes.
-- Each session will begin with a tour of the facility. It is important that you arrive on time. All new students go on the tour to acquire information necessary to have a successful experience.
-- We will always have basic materials available. When available, adult pottery students may use other clays in addition to our stoneware. We typically have in-house recycled clay and B-Mix available.
-- To protect the integrity of our kiln firings and safeguard every student's pottery work, clay from any outside source is prohibited. You may only use clay provided by Groundworks.
-- In most classes your instructor will demonstrate for 20 to 30 minutes of each class period (times may vary depending upon subject matter or circumstance). Unless otherwise indicated by the instructor, all students are expected to pause their work and give their full attention.
-- Clean-up is critical! Please help our hardworking staff and volunteers by beginning clean-up 30 minutes before the end of class, helping out with common areas, and leaving class on time.
-- For each 8-week session, you need to complete all “wet” clay work during the 6th week of class. No new clay work can be made after week 6. The 7th class is for trimming, finishing construction, and placing all clay work on the “to be bisqued carts” so they will be ready to glaze on your 8th and final class. Any bisque-ware not finished after the session will be recycled or donated to Groundworks.
-- The last class is often an end-of-session potluck where students bring refreshments and socialize while filling out an evaluation survey. Adult students can also finish pieces during this last class.
We are so glad to have you at Groundworks Art Lab. Have a great time and be patient… it's often harder than it looks!