Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How does it all work?
We are open every day for pottery painting and foam clay. For daytime pottery painting or foam clay, see our opening hours and contact the studio to book a table. On arrival we will show you round the studio and you choose your pottery. We will explain everything to you then you sit back, relax and get creative. If you need any help during the session, then our lovely staff are there to help. Once you've finished, you just pay for the pieces you've made. Painted pottery is left with us to be glazed and fired and we contact you once it's ready to collect. Foam clay can be taken on the day.
We also hold evening events throughout the year. These need to be booked and deposits paid to secure a place. Please see our events page for details.
Where are you?
We are in the centre of the courtyard at Apley Farm Shop.
How long do I get in the studio?
Our daytime sessions are either 10am - 12:30pm, 10am - 2pm or 1:30pm - 4pm. You choose your arrival time upon booking and you have your table until the end of that session.
How do I book a table?
To book a table, see our opening hours for when you'd like to book then call, email or message the studio.
How do I book an event?
See our events list then call, email or message the studio to book. You can pay your deposits over the phone or we can send bank details to you.
What happens after we leave our pottery?
The paint dries then it is dipped in a liquid clear glaze which then also has to dry. It is then fired to 1020 degrees in the kiln before we text you to collect.
How long will it take to glaze and fire?
The actual time to glaze and fire is between 3 and 5 days depending on drying time. Collection will be between 10 and 21 days depending on how busy the studio has been. You will be given a rough date at the time of painting but we will send you a text message once it's ready to collect.
Does foam clay need to be fired?
No, foam clay is an air dry clay so can be taken home the same day.
Do you sell gift vouchers?
Yes, see our Gift Vouchers page for details.
Do you have wheelchair access?
Yes, we are fully wheelchair accessible but it's always worth letting us know when you book and we can get you the best table.
Do you have SEN sessions?
We don't hold specific SEN sessions but if you contact the studio with your particular needs, our experienced staff can advise on the perfect time/day/activity for you.
Can I have my pottery posted out to me?
We can post smaller items out to you at an additional cost which will be quoted on the day.
Do I need to put my name on my piece?
You can if you wish however there is no need as we make a detailed description of every item.
Can I have my pottery back for a certain date?
Whilst we can never guarantee a date for collection due to drying times, how busy we are, reglazes and kiln breakdowns, please let us know if you have an ideal collection date and we aill always do our best.
Do you serve drinks?
Drinks are included at all of our evening events however during the day there is a cafe and shop onsite and you are welcome to bring drinks bought there or your own from home.
Can I put my pottery in the dishwasher?
We do not recommend this as it is hand glazed and may take on water over time.
Can I put my pottery in the microwave?
Your pottery is not suitable for the microwave.
Is my pottery waterproof?
Yes, a glazed item is waterproof and washable although cracks may appear over time. If this happens, you can always pop back and we can fix this for you.
Can I just buy unpainted pottery?
Yes, bisque can be purchased alone at half the shelf price.
How long do you keep painted pottery for?
We currently keep pottery for 6 months although this may reduce at busy times. We will always send you at least one reminder a month and a final collection date before we dispose of any pottery.
Can I order a particular piece of pottery?
If it's an item that we regularly stock then we will happily put it aside for you. If there's something you'd like but haven't spotted it on our shelves, then please contact the studio and we will do our best to source it for you.
Do you hire out kiln space if I've made my own pots?
At quieter times, we do hire out kiln shelves or an entire kiln load. Please contact the manager for current availability and pricing.