FAQ'S

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I wear, and what do I need to bring?
Please come ready to get dirty! Wear casual, comfortable clothing (long pants or skirts are recommended). We provide the clay, tools, and materials you need, but you must bring an old towel or an apron to help keep clay dust contained. You are also welcome to bring snacks and non-alcoholic drinks.
Do you have free parking available?
Yes! We have free parking directly in front of the studio, as well as two dedicated lots on the north side of the building.
Can I bring my children?
We offer specific kids and family classes where children are always welcome. However, if you are working in the studio as a member or practicing during open studio hours, we ask that you do not bring children.
Can I bring my pets?
No, we do not allow pets or emotional support animals in the studio. Licensed, working service animals are always welcome.

Are there any other costs to consider besides the course registration fee?
No. We include all materials and firing fees in the cost of your class. Most multi-week courses come with 25 pounds of clay, which is typically plenty to complete the class. If you need additional clay, you can purchase it directly from us.
Are the pots I make food safe?
Yes! We have specifically formulated our studio glazes to be 100% food safe. They are also microwave and dishwasher safe.
I made some pottery at home. Can you fire it for me?
No, we do not offer a contract firing service for outside work.
Can I bring my own clay?
No, we do not allow outside clay in the studio to protect our kilns and prevent firing mishaps. We use a light-colored stoneware clay for our regular classes. Members can choose from three studio-provided clay bodies: Stoneware, Blair’s Red, and Porcelain. All studio work is fired to Cone 6.

Do I need to have experience to be a member?
Yes. Because our memberships are entirely self-directed, applicants should have taken at least one beginning class with us or have equivalent clay experience from another art center. You need to be fully comfortable working independently and familiar with basic studio procedures.
Can I bring a friend to the studio?
Yes! We offer one-time day passes for $20 so you can share the RCC experience with friends and family. Guests must use your clay allocation (they cannot purchase their own). We will happily fire what they make, but you will need to glaze it for them. If your guest wants to come back a second time, we highly recommend they sign up for a class! To purchase a guest pass, please email us at richmondclaycenter@gmail.com.

Do you host private events?
Yes, we are happy to accommodate private parties and events! Please email us at richmondclaycenter@gmail.com to inquire about pricing and availability.
Do you sell clay, tools, or glazes?
While we sell clay directly to our enrolled students and members for studio use, we do not operate a public retail shop. For retail clay supplies, we highly recommend our friends at Richmond Clayworks!
Do you sell artwork or have a gallery?
Yes! Our retail gallery features ceramic artwork made by our incredibly talented faculty. RCC also hosts an annual open house and holiday sale showcasing the work of our members.