Question 1

What is clay?

Accepted Answer

It is a naturally occurring collection of minerals with fine particle size. Clay naturally holds water, hardens when dried and fired, and holds its shape well when formed and stretched. It is the oldest known ceramic material.

Question 2

I've never done this before. Do I have to be an experienced potter to come to the studio?

Accepted Answer

Our pottery studio is welcome to people of all ages and artistic abilities. Whether you are a beginner, seasoned artist or someone who just wants to spend an afternoon exploring their inner creativity, we offer something for every skill level. If you need help with any step of the process, our friendly studio assistants are there to help guide you and answer your questions.

Question 3

Do I need to make a booking beforehand?

Accepted Answer

We are a walk-in studio so you don't require a prior booking to come and start playing with clay. However, we do encourage you to make an advance booking for our classes & workshops to guarantee your place since we have limited number of seats. Also If you have a larger party (8 or more), it is helpful if you let us know in advance so we can better prepare for your visit. In case there is no spot open when you drop in, you can hang out in our cafe area and wait for the next available spot.

Question 4

What do I wear to a class? Do I need to bring anything with me?

Accepted Answer

Pottery is a chance to get your hands dirty! We suggest loose, comfortable clothing as well as close-toed shoes that you don't mind getting a bit dirty and are easy to clean. As for tools & clay, we will provide everything you need at the studio so just bring yourself and a desire to learn & have fun! We offer complimentary water and you can also purchase either coffee, tea or a smoothie from our cafe. In case you're hungry, you can choose to bring your own snacks, order a snack to the studio from an online delivery service (Talabat, Deliveroo etc.) or inquire at our cafe whether we are offering any freshly baked snacks that day.

Question 5

Will the clay wash out of my clothes?

Accepted Answer

Yes it will, however we suggest you wear something you would paint or garden in. We will also provide aprons to everyone who walks into the studio as an added protective layer.

Question 6

What can I expect during a class?

Accepted Answer

First, we hope you'll have a lot of fun! Initially, our goal is to get you comfortable with clay so you're free to explore and have fun with your work. Everyone learns at a different pace but after just a few classes, we can guarantee you'll have the comfort level to start creating pieces. Initially, you will be focused on creating simple forms such as cylinders on the wheel or pinch pot bowls by hand. As you gain comfort with clay, you can progress to more advanced & complex forms, techniques and projects. In addition to learning some new skills, you'll meet like-minded pottery enthusiasts and enjoy a personal interaction with the teaching artist. There will for you to relax and reflect on your masterpiece.

Question 7

What happens in a typical class?

Accepted Answer

We always begin our classes or courses with introductions so that everyone can get acquainted. We then explain the teaching goals of the class and discuss the plan for the day. 15 minutes before the end of the workshop, participants will be kindly asked to clean up and ensure everything’s ready for the next day.

Question 8

What is included in the class fee?

Accepted Answer

The basic tools such as sponges, water buckets, needles, cut-off wires, scrapers & modeling instruments are readily available in the studio at the students’ disposal. In addition, each student will receive one piece of clay, a choice of one glaze color and be allowed to choose one of their creations to get bisque & glaze fired. Additional of any of these things are chargeable.

Question 9

What will I make during a class?

Accepted Answer

In your first few intro classes will be focused on creating simple forms such as cylinders on the wheel. After a 3 hour class, you should expect to have made a cup and a bowl. Please refer to the “Learn” section of our website for more info.

Question 10

How long is a class?

Accepted Answer

Most classes typically run for 3 hours w/ a 15-20min break at the halfway mark. However, these can vary and we suggest you have a look at the schedule/calendar on our website to check the specific details of each class. Please feel free to contact us if you need any clarification or more information.

Question 11

Who is teaching my class?

Accepted Answer

To keep our teachers excited about their material, and offer flexibility in their schedules, the teachers rotate each session. Every clay artist has a different approach and style and so we encourage each instructor to teach what they love. This way, students receive a variety of training styles and multiple angles to understanding concepts. Please reach out to us to discuss what you are looking for specifically and we can help you find the best fit.

Question 12

What if I don't have enough time to finish my piece?

Accepted Answer

Not a problem! We will wrap your piece up and keep it on our storage shelves so you can return back to the studio whenvner you have time to complete your masterpiece. All pieces will be held for a maximum of 30 days from the date they were made. In case you are unable to visit the studio before 30 days and would still like to keep your piece, please inform us so we don't recycle it.

Question 13

Why does it take 1 week for my piece to be ready for collection? Will someone call me when my pieces are ready to be picked up?

Accepted Answer

Once you leave, that’s when the behind-the-scenes magic occurs! Even though your piece may look dry when you leave, we give it an additional 24 hours for it to dry out completely to make sure there is no moisture left before going into the kiln for firing. The kilns heat up the pieces to about 1,850 degrees but then they must cool down naturally and slowly. Due to this drying & firing time, pieces will be ready 1 week from completion, at which point you can book a time to return to glaze your work.
All pieces will be held for a maximum of 30 days from the date they are kiln fired. We will be sending you an email and text message when your piece is ready for pick-up and a reminder when the 30-day expiry date is soon approaching. In case you are unable to visit the studio before 30 days and you would like us to hold onto your piece, please inform us before we recycle it.

Question 14

What happens when I go on holiday? Who looks after my work?

Accepted Answer

At the studio, we have ample storage and shelf space to keep your unfinished projects. All storage areas will be inspected by our staff on a regular basis to ensure everything is kept moist and in the same condition as when it was placed there. We request that you inform us of the approximate time you will be away.

Question 15

I’ve taken some classes, but never really learned about glazing. Will that be included?"

Accepted Answer

Yes! You’ll be glazing your own pots, and everyone will get instruction before any glazing is done. As you advance, you’ll also learn about other surface decoration and treatments, both on the clay directly and by using glazes. Our glazes are formulated to fit our clay bodies, and all clay and glaze ingredients are non-toxic and lead-free. From time to time, we will also host glazing workshops, and students will have first dibs on registration.

Question 16

What is glazing? How is it different from bisque firing?

Accepted Answer

Bisque firing is the initial process of drying your clay piece till it hardens enough in preparation to glaze. Everyone's finished pieces are always first bisque fired. After bisque firing, glaze can be applied onto your clay piece which is a mixture of minerals that acts as an additional finishing process to give clay a special color or texture. Glazing can also make your piece waterproof and food-safe.
Participants in ongoing classes will be offered the opportunity to glaze their work as part of the class curriculum, every few weeks.Participants in Workshops or Clay Parties have the option of attending an additional class session to glaze their work, or paying a fee to have one our assistants apply a clear, food-safe glaze for you. Whether you decide to glaze your work or just have it bisque fired, you'll need to come back on a separate day to pick up your work.

Question 17

Do I need my own tools?

Accepted Answer

We will provide the basic tools & materials you will need. If you have your own tools, feel free to bring them along.

Question 18

Can I buy tools, clay and glazes?"

Accepted Answer

Yes you can! We sell a range of tools, clay & glazes through our website or in-person at our studio. Bags of clay cost anywhere from AED 50 to AED 100 depending on type and weight. We suggest you call our studio beforehand to inquire about available stock.

Question 19

Can I buy clay elsewhere and bring it in?

Accepted Answer

Only clay purchased at our studio can be used and fired in our kilns. This is because there are many different types of clay out there and they all require different firing temperatures and glaze formulas. Our studio clays and glazes are formulated to fire well with our kilns

Question 20

Can I work in the studio without taking classes? Can I book time to use your studio at any time other than my class time?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can either register for our day pass (clay & kiln firing not included) or our monthly membership packages (clay & kiln firing included) to take advantage of our studio setup and available tools & equipment. Both of these options do not include instruction, so students must be able to self-direct. But our friendly staff will be available at all times for assistance if you need to purchase clay or need help with equipment.

Question 21

How are workshops different from classes?

Accepted Answer

The purpose of a workshop is to focus on one specific skill or technique. Workshops are one-time events and do not require a long-term weekly commitment like classes.

Question 22

Does the 3-week workshop follow a specific curriculum?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our courses guide students through specific projects and processes that build upon one another.

Question 23

How can I get a certificate for a workshop I attended?

Accepted Answer

We provide certificates upon request, which are signed by both the teacher of the workshop and someone from management. Kindly let us know before or during the workshop that you would like a certificate so we can prepare everything beforehand.

Question 24

How can I become a member? What is the benefits of being a member?

Accepted Answer

You can either sign up on our website, visit us at the studio or call us on +971588901500. Upon completion of the registration form & payment, you’ll receive your personal access key. It’s that simple. Memberships includes exclusive discounts on materials, products & classes, a guaranteed spot in our studio to work on your pieces, dedicated shelf space and priority access to the kiln. Monthly memberships start at AED 990 per month

Question 25

Is kiln firing included in my membership?

Accepted Answer

Yes, kiln firing is included in all memberships (except for the 1-Month Beginner & Day Pass). You will be allotted 40 liters of capacity per month. (1 liter = 10cm x 10cm x 10cm or 1,000 cubic centimeters)

Question 26

Is kiln firing included in all classes?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you will be allowed to fire one of your finished pieces.

Question 27

Can I fire work at The Mud House Studio if I am not a member?

Accepted Answer

Yes, non-members can fire their works, as long as their pieces have been using clay from the studio. Non-members will need to first sign up on our website and then book a time slot & let us know the approximate volume of the piece. Firing will only take place during studio opening hours. Please refer to the “Book a Kiln” section of our website for more information.

Question 28

Can I bring in my own pottery to paint or be fired in the kiln?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Potters, artists and anyone working on their clay pieces at home and are in need of a kiln to bring their ideas to life are welcome to use our kiln facilities to fire their creations. However, as we are an exclusive “cone 6” studio, all materials brought by you will first need to be assessed & approved by one of our trained staff. Clay pieces and bisque-ware have unique properties and we want to ensure the proper firing of each piece.. Feel free to call us on +971588901500 or email us for more information.

Question 29

How often do you fire kilns?

Accepted Answer

Every afternoon, alternating bisque and glaze.

Question 30

How do you calculate the volume in liters for a piece?

Accepted Answer

We measure the height, width & depth in centimeters, multiply the three & then divide by 1,000. (For example, a 10cm x 10cm x 10cm work is equivalent to 1 liter.) If you are a member, we keep track of the number of liters until you reach the monthly limit.

Question 31

Can I purchase a gift certificate?

Accepted Answer

Of course! Gift certificates are available year-round, and may be used towards Classes, Workshops, Clay Parties or in the Studio Gallery. They can be purchased online on our website, in-person at the studio or by calling us

Question 32

Can I bring a friend to keep me company as I work ?

Accepted Answer

Everyone is welcome at our studio! Your guest can enjoy some coffee and snacks in our lounge, speak to our friendly staff to learn more about pottery and browse through our collection of ceramics for sale.

Question 33

Can I bring my baby or toddler to paint?

Accepted Answer

We welcome children and adults of all ages at The Mud House Studio. In fact, you can include your little one in pottery making by having our friendly assistant help you create a special hand-print or foot-print piece. For the safety of your child, we do not allow children to be left unattended at our studio while in session or attending classes.

Question 34

What is your attendance policy?

Accepted Answer

Once you have paid your place is booked and will remain available to you unless you have notified us otherwise. You are encouraged to attend the full length of the workshop to ensure you get the full benefit. In the event that you are unable to attend for any reason, it is at the teacher’s discretion whether to repeat the missed information.

Question 35

What is your cancellation policy? Can I get a refund?

Accepted Answer

(1) If you cancel a booked session /  class at least 24 hours before a scheduled class, you will receive a credit to reschedule at a later date. Credit must be used within 90 days.
(2) Failure to cancel 24 hrs before will result in the class being deducted from your number of sessions.
(3) All bookings are non-refundable.

Question 36

Is my pottery food safe? Is it ok to use in the microwave and dishwasher?

Accepted Answer

As long as you use clays and glazes provided by The Mud House Studio, you can be assured that your pottery will be food safe. Our pottery is also 100% lead free.
 
While you can microwave your wares, considering these are handmade pieces, we recommend heating your food before placing it on your pottery.
 
The products are dishwasher safe, however hand washing is recommended to extend the life of the piece.

Question 37

Can I bring some nibbles and snacks to the class?

Accepted Answer

Most definitely! You can choose to either bring your own snacks, have something delivered directly to the studio through an online delivery service (Talabat, Deliveroo etc.) or inquire at our cafe whether we are offering any freshly baked snacks that day. There will be a 15-20min break in all our classes for you to go to the bathroom, attend to any personal work or hang out in our lounge area

Question 38

I would like to book a private session or organize a private group class. How do I do this?

Accepted Answer

Wonderful, we’re flattered! Please contact us on +971588901500 or email us at letsclay@themudhousestudio.com to inquire about availability and details. Please provide your ideal date, time and number of people as well as your reason for celebrating. We invite you to visit our studio to meet some of our talented teachers, friendly staff and to have a look at our space.

Question 39

How should my child prepare for a class?

Accepted Answer

Our clay won’t leave permanent stains, but it’s best to pick out comfortable clothing and shoes that your child (and you!) don’t mind getting a little dirty. If your child has long hair, make sure he or she has it pulled back. Also, trimmed nails are ideal for handling clay.

Question 40

When will my child's piece be ready to be picked up?

Accepted Answer

Approximately in 3-4 weeks. All clay pieces have to go through two kiln firings which is a time-sensitive process. The first is a “bisque firing” which takes approx 1-2 weeks. The second is a “glaze firing” (to make the pottery safe to eat & drink out of) which also takes 1-2 weeks.

Question 41

Once complete, will their clay creations be safe to eat on and drink out of?"

Accepted Answer

Yes, but only after the piece has been glaze fired

Question 42

What if my child’s piece gets damaged at the studio?

Accepted Answer

We handle all our little artists’ creations with utmost care. But the very nature of clay makes it susceptible to unforeseen damage during the drying process and/or in the kiln, which at times is beyond our control. If that happens, we’ll try our best to fix it.

Question 43

What happens to my child’s piece if I forget to pick them up?

Accepted Answer

We hold onto artwork for four weeks as we have limited storage space. After that, we may reuse them for any of our ongoing projects or find innovative ways to repurpose them. If for any reason you are unable to swing by to pick up your piece before our four week deadline, please call us and we’ll be happy to keep it aside for you.

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FAQ'S