The Best Pottery Classes In Boston Coming Up - With Reviews & Sign Up Dates

Boston has a rich history in the world of ceramics and pottery. From the famous potters at the Dorchester Pottery Works in the 19th century to the contemporary ceramics programs at prestigious institutions such as the Massachusetts College of Art and Design, the city has long been a hub for those interested in learning the craft.

If you're looking for pottery classes in Boston, you're in luck. The city offers a wide range of options for both beginners and experienced potters. From community centers to private studios, there are many opportunities to learn the art of ceramics in the city. Whether you're interested in traditional techniques or contemporary methods, there is a class for you.

In this article, we will explore the best pottery classes in Boston. From beginners' classes to advanced workshops, we'll highlight some of the top options for those interested in learning the craft. We'll also take a look at the history of ceramics in Boston and the notable figures and institutions that have shaped the city's pottery scene. So whether you're looking to take up a new hobby or hone your skills, read on to find the perfect pottery class in Boston.

Clay Lounge

SoWa Arts District / South End

Clay Lounge is a community-driven pottery studio and gallery located in the South End of Boston in the SoWa Arts District. It offers a fun and creative environment where people can learn pottery, whether they are beginners or experienced ceramicists. The studio is designed to make pottery accessible to the urban resident and to help people unplug and relax. The instructors at Clay Lounge are welcoming, supportive and talented, and they aim to create an atmosphere where students can learn and progress in pottery while making new friends. The reviews of the Clay Lounge are positive, with students praising the instructors and the community atmosphere. Overall, Clay Lounge is a great choice for those who want to learn pottery and experience the art in a supportive and fun environment.

Rokuro Pottery

Hyde Park

"Rokuro Pottery" is a studio founded by artist and Boston native Andrew Jacob that offers both pottery production and lessons. The lessons are only available by appointment on certain days and include a 90-minute "Couple's Lesson" with the option of wine for those 21 and over.

The quality of teaching at the studio is highly praised, with Andrew being described as a knowledgeable and communicative instructor who provides just the right amount of guidance to ensure a successful experience. The studio offers a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere, making it a popular choice for couples and those new to pottery.

The mission of the studio is to provide a fun and educational experience for all skill levels, from beginners to those with prior experience. The "Couple's Lesson" is particularly popular for those looking to learn together and create unique pieces of pottery. However, please note that the studio is by appointment only, so be sure to call ahead.

Book an appointment here.

Feet Of Clay

Brookline

Feet of Clay is a cooperatively run pottery studio that offers a large, well-equipped studio space for ceramic artists and potters of all experience levels. Whether you're a beginner interested in learning how to hand-build or wheel-throw, or an experienced potter looking for studio space, Feet of Clay has everything you need to start working with clay today. They offer classes for all experience levels, as well as affordable membership that includes access to wheels, kilns, clay, glazes, tools, a photo booth, and more. They also open their doors twice a year and transform their studio space into a gallery setting, featuring the work of local artists.

Feet of Clay is a welcoming and friendly place, with helpful and kind instructors. They offer plenty of glazes to choose from and firing is quick, usually between 1-2 weeks.

The Clayroom

Brookline

"The Clayroom" is a paint-your-own pottery studio that also offers private lessons at the potter's wheel. Wheel-throwing lessons must be reserved privately, as there are only two wheels in the studio. 

The Clayroom is perfect for kids as it runs a Kid's Clay Days Program, including pottery painting, hand-building, and other art activities, games, and projects along with lunch and snacks. The quality of the teaching is described as great by the owner who does a great job of explaining the painting process and is open to helping with any questions or concerns. The studio is a fun place for birthday parties and or (less messy) date place, according to the reviews. The cost of painting your own pottery is $10 per person for two hours plus the cost of the pottery. The studio is equipped with a ton of colors, practical and cute/funny pottery choices, and has a few blow dryers for quick drying. It's a great option for creative types and people who want to spend a relaxing time with their partner, family, or friends. 

Book an appointment here.

Mudflat Studio

Somerville

Mudflat Studio is a non-profit pottery studio located in Somerville, Massachusetts, that just celebrated its 50th birthday. Mudflat offers classes, workshops, outreach programing and events focusing on the ceramic arts. The studio's mission is to promote and expand appreciation of and participation in the ceramic arts through classes, workshops, outreach programming and events for students of all ages, abilities, and socioeconomic backgrounds. It also provides a mix of studio rentals, which attract and support 36 accomplished clay artists. The studio has a positive reputation for the quality of teaching provided, catering to both beginners and experts. The studio also fosters an environment where students and artists can be creative, receive a rich and varied educational experience and participate in a large artistic community. The studio is for all ages, and their students work in close proximity to professional studio artists. Mudflat is also known for its welcoming, collaborative, collegial, egalitarian, supportive, and fun atmosphere.

It should be noted that "Mudflat Studio" classes are quite popular and tend to sell out quickly. Some reviewers have mentioned that it can be difficult to secure a spot in the class of their choice. Additionally, some reviewers have reported challenges when it comes to changing or canceling classes. It's worth noting that the studio has a non-refundable deposit, policy in case of cancelation, so it's important to check the studio's policies before signing up for a class.

The Clay School

Lynn

The Clay School is a pottery studio founded in 2005 by professional artists Doreen Mastandrea and Kirsten Bassion, and widely considered one of the top ceramics studios in the Boston area. It offers a variety of classes and workshops for students of all levels, including wheel throwing and hand-building, and features a bright, colorful classroom, worktables, and 30 wheels. The studio is open 24/7 and features over 4000 square feet of workspace, as well as extra-fancy stuff like computerized kilns, a Northstar Extruder, and Bailey slab rollers.

The quality of teaching at The Clay School is highly praised by students, who describe the instructors as patient, knowledgeable, and excellent. Classes fill up quickly due to their popularity. The studio also offers a supportive community for makers of all levels, from first-timers to professional potters, and a safe environment for students, with measures in place to protect against COVID-19.

The mission of The Clay School is to provide a welcoming and inspiring environment for artists and students to create and learn. The studio serves a diverse community of people, including both experienced and beginner potters, and also offers special events like date night and baby footprint-making. Overall, The Clay School is a highly recommended pottery studio for those looking to learn and create in a supportive and well-equipped environment.

*Note - Classes will be listed on the website as "Full" until registration opens.

New Art Center

Newtonville

The New Art Center is a non-profit community art education space in the region offering over 400 classes per year, taught by some of the region's most esteemed art educators. The center serves a diverse group of students, ranging from children to advanced artists, and offers scholarships and tuition subsidies to make art accessible to everyone. The ceramics program at the center offers Independent Study opportunities for experienced ceramics students to work on their own projects, develop their style and explore new ideas.

The quality of teaching at the New Art Center is highly regarded by its students, with a focus on inclusiveness and serving all levels of ability. The center offers classes for beginners to advanced artists, including children, teens, and adults. The Ceramics Independent Study Program is designed for students with prior experience.

The center is a welcoming place, with a charming, small community feel, and a supportive culture that takes art and artists seriously. It is a great place for families, with Parent & Child classes offered on Saturdays. The center is located in a beautiful, converted church with ample parking.

All classes here.