Frequently asked questions

No! Throwing on the wheel requires stability more than strength but being able to lift at least 10 lbs is helpful. However, wheel throwing can be taxing on hands, wrists, and the back so it is important to use proper posture and positioning while throwing to avoid injury. Please ask your instructor for advice on posture if you are feeling uncomfortable or are experiencing pain.

How often are your classes offered?

We offer classes on a rolling quarterly basis and we try to provide a variety of offerings. As such, some classes are only offered periodically so check back often to see if your favorite class is back!

Do you offer multiple enrollment discounts for kids or adults?

We currently do not offer multiple enrollment discounts.

Summer Camps

When do you offer camps?

We offer morning half day weekly camps during the summer.

What ages can participate in camps?

Children ages 5-15 can participate in camps, except wheel throwing camps, which are available for children ages 10-15.

Can I register my child for single or multiple weeks of camp?

You can register your child for a single week or multiple weeks of camp.

How long is camp?

Morning camp sessions are 3 hours long from 9am to noon.

What will my child learn during camp?

Campers will produce unique projects each week of camp and will learn the basics of working with clay. Projects will be produced using hand building and/or slab-building methods, unless the topic is specifically wheel throwing (kids ages 10-15).

What does my child need to bring to camp?

Please ensure your child brings clothes that can get dirty, a hand towel, a water bottle, snack(s), and a positive attitude to camp!

When does 2026 Summer Camp registration begin?

Our 2026 Summer Camp registration open February 1, 2026.

Do you offer a sibling discount?

We currently do not offer sibling discounts.

Do you offer an early enrollment discount?

Yes! If you register your child by March 1, 2026, you will receive a 15% discount on camp enrollment.

Studio Membership

Do I need experience to become a studio member?

Yes, you need to have a fundamental understanding of working with mid-range clay and be able to use the studio unsupervised in order to become a member. We require our members to have a current and basic understanding of joining, finishing, throwing (not applicable if only doing hand building in the studio), and mid-range glazing. While we do have Studio Techs on duty during our retail hours, they are not there to provide instruction. If you are not able to use the studio unsupervised, we may rescind your membership.

What is required to be a studio member?

You must attend a membership orientation, be at least 18 years of age (See Teen Memberships below), have prior experience with clay, and have an active membership with a valid credit card on file. There is also a one-time start-up fee of $50 when you join as a member.

Do you offer family membership discounts?

Yes! We offer add-on memberships for adults (age 18+) who reside with the primary member, as well as teens (age 13-17) that reside with the primary member for a discounted rate. Teens that are added to a parent’s membership may use the studio between 6am and midnight but they must be accompanied by the primary member or an adult with an add-on membership.

Do you offer standalone teen memberships?

Yes! A teen age 16-17 may become a member with parental permission. The parent will be responsible for paying the monthly membership dues for the teen and sign our Terms & Conditions. The parent will then be enrolled as a Parental Co-Sign member for $0 per month but will be responsible for any and all fees or costs the teen may incur while they are a member. Teen members will only be allowed to use the studio during our retail hours when staff is present. Please email admin@nwpotterycollective.com if you have questions about our teen memberships.

What benefits do members receive?

While their membership is active, members receive 20% off our adult 3 and 6 week classes, 15% off our kids’ classes and camps, and 10% off workshops & NPC merch. Unlimited members also receive two hours of free open studio time for guests.

Open Studio

What is an open studio appointment?

An open studio appointment is a per hour reservation for either our wheel or hand building space in the studio for adults over the age of 18. The reservation charge includes use of the studio space (wheel or hand building), use of studio glazes and tools, and firing. Clay must be purchased from NPC to be used during open studio. Appointments open on a two-week rolling basis and are required in advance.

Do I need experience to book an open studio appointment?

Yes, you should be able to use the space unsupervised during open studio hours, therefore you will need to have at least some experience with clay to book an open studio appointment. If you do not have enough experience to use the studio unsupervised or in an appropriate manner, we may revoke your ability to book open studio appointments.

Can I just show up for open studio hours or do I need an appointment?

You must have a pre-paid appointment to attend open studio hours as a community guest.

Do I need a membership to book an open studio appointment?

No, you do not need to be a member to book an open studio appointment.

Can I bring work I made in my home studio to be fired and/or glazed at NPC?

Unfortunately, we are not able to have work created outside of NPC be processed in any way (bisqued, glazed, fired, etc.) using studio resources.

Can I bring my own clay or glaze to use during open studio at NPC?

No. Open studio guests must use clay and glazes provided by or purchased from NPC.