Ceramics FAQ

Q. Do I have to buy clay? Is there a materials/lab fee for pottery classes?
A. No, the SAA provides all clay, glazes, and kiln firings.
Q. May I bring in my own clay or glaze?
A. No. Clay bodies and glazes are formulated for specific functions and firing temperatures. Currently, the SAA provides two stoneware clay bodies for throwing/hand-building and one terra cotta clay body for Majolica decoration. Approximately 12 glazes, specifically for these clay bodis, are mixed in our studio. Also, we manage recycled clay and kiln firings according to the requirements of the current clay and glazes. If a new clay/glaze was introduced into our studio, we might contaminate our current clay/glaze. Also, pieces made from new clay/glaze might not fire properly, and any new material might not be compatible with our current studio clays/glazes.
Q. Do I need to provide my own tools?
A. There is a limited supply of used tools in the studio. However, we recommend that students purchase a tool pack from the SAA or individual tools from area craft stores. Ask your instructor about local and on-line pottery resources.
Q. Do I have to take a class to use the studio?
A. The SAA offers a variety of pottery classes for all skill levels and interests. We offer a non-class, independent study option, but we require that SAA members take at least one class in our studios before utilizing this option. This is to ensure you understand how our particular studio functions. Because the studio is cooperatively maintained, as a non-class user, you would have the same maintenance duties as those who are taking classes, such as clay recycling, glazes mixing, and firing. Instead of using class-time for these dutes, however, you would be expected to come in on your own time.
Q. Do I fire my own pieces?
A. Generally, students do not fire their own work. If you are interested in learning how to fire, however, please talk to your instructor. He/she will direct you to the right sources so that you can get training on how to fire.
Q. I glazed a piece but it does not look like the glaze on the test tile. Why?
A. Many variables contribute to the final look and feel of a pottery piece. Glaze consistency, glaze application, and kiln temperature all affect the final result. If you have achieved an unexpected result, speak with your instructor about the piece. He/she can help troubleshoot any problems.
Q. My piece has been sitting on the shelf for a long time but has not been fired. Is there any reason why?
A. Greenware (unfired) must be completely dry before it is placed in a bisque kiln. Greenware that is dried too fast can crack and even explode, damaging other pieces in the kiln. Also, Greenware that is placed in the kiln room with existing cracks may not be fired as these may only worsen in a hot kiln.
Glazed ware must wait for space in a kiln. A glaze firing will accommodate only a limited number of pieces in a single firing. Many glazed pieces must simply wait until there is space. Poorly glazed ware may not be fired. If your piece has glaze on the bottom, chipped glaze, or thick glaze, it may be rejected from the kiln completely.
Q. How often are pieces fired?
A. After a term has started and pieces start to accumulate, firings happen continuously and alternate between bisque and glaze kilns.
Q. What does last day of wet clay mean?
A. Last day of wet clay is the last day that new pieces can be started. Literally, it means that you should not be using any more new, and thus "wet," clay to throw new pieces. After the “last day of wet clay,” however, pieces can still be trimmed and glazed. “Last day of Wet Clay” exists so that we can get pieces finished and out of the studio before the end of the term.
Q. What is studio clean-up?
A. Studio clean-up is a designated day at the end of the term when the studio is cleaned up. It is a way to ensure that dust does not build up too much over time. After the mandatory clean-up date, the studio is closed until the following term. This period is between SAA terms.
Q. Can I come in to work outside of class time?
A. Yes. The studio is open 24/7 and you can come in to work on your own any time that there is not another class going on. Classes are generally offered from 4 to 10 pm Monday thru Thursday and 10 am to 1 pm on Saturday. The specific schedule for each term is posted on the studio door and is also available on the registration forms and online here.
Q. Where can I pick up my glazed pieces?
A. There is a locked cabinet in the ceramics studio where we keep our finished pieces. Please ask your instructor or the office staff if you need to access the cabinet.
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