Can I work on my piece over several sessions?
Yes! Simply keep your work covered with plastic or dome it with your upside-down bucket between sessions. If the clay begins to stiffen, mist it lightly with water and leave it covered overnight. If it dries out completely before you finish building, bring it by the studio and we can exchange it for fresh clay.
What should I do if mold appears?
It is very common for mold to develop on wet clay and disappears completely in the kiln. If you want to keep working on your piece, wipe the mold away. Use a sponge or paper towel dipped in a solution of 3 parts water to 1 part white vinegar.
Can I reclaim or restart my clay?
Yes, as long as you wedge it first. We prep and wedge all clay before packing your kit to remove air bubbles. If you squish a project and want to restart, knead the clay thoroughly to push out trapped air pockets, or stop by the studio to trade it in.
What if I run out of clay or glaze?
We’ve got you covered! Contact us anytime to purchase clay refills or extra glaze cups.
What if I accidentally painted glaze on the bottom of my piece?
Don't worry! Studio staff double-check every piece and wipe all bottoms clean before placing them on the kiln shelves.
Is this kit suitable for young kids?
Absolutely! Clay is a fantastic creative outlet for all ages. We recommend adult guidance for children under 8, especially when handling tools with points or edges. Do not eat any materials!
What if my piece breaks before it is fired?
Don't lose hope! Contact us right away. Bring all the broken pieces in your bucket, and our team will evaluate if we can repair the joint with slip or paper clay before firing.
Will my glaze color look different after firing?
Yes. Unfired glaze often looks pastel, chalky, or pale. Once fired to high temperatures, the colors deepen, melt together, and transform into a smooth, glossy ceramic finish. This is known as “maturing”.
What happens if my piece breaks inside the kiln?
While ceramic firing carries small natural risks, we handle every piece with extreme care. If an unexpected kiln issue damages your artwork, we will work with you to refund half the kit fee or replace your bucket kit free of charge.
How long do you hold finished artwork?
We hold finished artwork at the studio for up to 6 months after notifying you. After 6 months, unclaimed pieces may be donated, used as studio display samples, or recycled.
My pinch pot walls are uneven—how can I fix them?
As you pinch, gently rotate the pot in your hands and use your thumbs to feel for thick spots. Even wall thickness ensures your piece dries predictably and stays strong during firing!
Can I combine pinch, coil, and slab techniques?
Definitely! Combining techniques creates fantastic, complex forms. Just remember the golden rule: score both surfaces deeply and apply slip generously at every seam.
Why did a handle or small attachment fall off?
Attachments usually detach if the clay was too dry when joined, or if there wasn't enough scoring and slip. For heavy parts like handles, score deeply, use plenty of slip, and blend a thin coil of clay around the seam to reinforce the joint.
How do I request Clay Catering?
Use our contact form to request availability. Include your preferred event date and time, any alternative dates, the event location, the number of participants, and a little about your event or any special requests.
How do I request a kiln rental?
Use our contact form and include your preferred firing or drop-off date, any flexibility, the firing type and target cone, and the approximate number and dimensions of your pieces or the kiln space you need. Please also include the brands, names, and firing ranges of your clay and glazes, if known. If you are unsure about any of these details, let us know so we can discuss them before confirming your rental.
Do I pay before you confirm availability?
No. We will review your catering or kiln-rental request and confirm availability and pricing by email first. Once you accept the details, we will send a payment invoice.
Does submitting a request reserve my date?
No. Submitting the contact form is an inquiry, not a confirmed reservation. Your booking is secured once payment is received, after we have agreed on availability and pricing.