When people think about making pottery, they often think that all they need is some clay and a pottery wheel. I mean, how hard can it be, right?
Yes, all you need are the clay, a wheel, some tools, and even a few pigments. But pottery is so much more than that.
When you enroll in pottery classes, you are not only learning about the basics of making pottery, but you are getting an in-depth view of the artform from experienced potters.
Let’s talk about WHY you should enroll in pottery classes.
Why Should You Enroll in Pottery Classes in Chicago?
So you want to take up pottery, but you’re not sure if enrolling in pottery classes is worth it. We get that. Pottery seems like an easy skill to learn. You’re just playing with dirt!
But before making up your mind about enrolling in pottery classes, let’s just talk about some of the reasons why you should do it:
- You receive hands-on training from experienced potters;
- Instructors guide you in centering and pulling;
- You will learn about the proper clothing to wear when creating pottery;
- You learn more about clay;
- You make new friends and meet other potters;
- You learn about wedging;
- You learn how to properly and efficiently glaze your work;
- You get a feel for pottery wheels;
- You are taught when and how to trim your clay creations;
- You get to test out pottery tools before making a purchase!
And many more! So if you’re looking to have a good time creating clay works of art, then we recommend you enroll in pottery classes in your area.
Best Pottery Classes in Chicago, IL in 2021
Now that you know the benefits of learning from experienced potters let’s talk about the pottery classes in Chicago!
Penguin Foot Pottery
Penguin Foot Pottery is a ceramics studio in Chicago’s Logan Square. They offer classes and also serve as an artist place for hobby and passionate potters alike.
This adorable studio was opened in 2010 by Chris and Paige Busse. One of the owners, Chris, used the name “Penguin Foot Pottery” during his studies, and it just stuck!
We can’t blame them! It’s such a cute name!
In their home-y studio, you will be able to check out the masterpieces of different potters. Perfect for those who need a little bit of inspiration for their creative projects!
Penguin Foot Pottery has received many praises on Yelp!
One student said, “I had no idea how rewarding it would be to create something that I can actually use from a blob of clay.”
While one praised the instructor for being skilled at his craft, they said “Chris, the instructor is super nice and talented, wish I can be as good as him one day! They are located very close to the blue line and they are open studio for people who want to come back to practice and play with the clay during their free time. I really enjoyed the class and IF YOU ARE NOT SURE WHICH POTTERY CLASS TO GO, GO TO THIS ONE!!!!”
If you’re looking for a calm and friendly atmosphere, then Penguin Foot Pottery should be your go-to. Just be sure to give them a call as they only accept appointments for safety purposes!
Contact Number: 773-227-3575
Address: 2516 W Armitage Ave., Chicago, IL 60647
Chicago Ceramic Center
Whether you’re a newbie in pottery or a seasoned veteran, Chicago Ceramic Center is the place to be if you want to hone your skill.
They have ongoing ceramic exhibitions and performances and tons of fun pottery events for our clay lovers out there!
Their classes are a bit more expensive than usual for an 8-week pottery session. However, they do have one-off classes for beginners that are more affordable options.
They have many pottery classes offered in various tiers to meet the demands of different aspiring and practicing potters in Chicago.
They earned 3.5 stars on Yelp, and one happy student even said,
“It is easy to get in the creative spirit with so much natural light!
The ceramics center is very well equipped (lots of wheels, tools, bats, etc) and there is tons of space to make work.
The classes are really great, and the community of people in the studio has a really cool vibe. You should definitely check it out!”
If this is the vibe you are looking for, then you’d be making a big mistake not giving Chicago Ceramic Center a try!
Contact Number: 773-505-0703
Address: 1200 W. 35th Street, 5th Floor, Chicago, IL 60609
Creative Claythings
Next up is Creative Claythings!
These guys have been around for about 38 years. That’s a long time!
And despite being one of the old-timers in the pottery class industry, they remain one of the most affordable classes around. Talk about being accessible and inclusive!
They’re so good at teaching pottery that if you sign up for their workshops, they guarantee that you will have at least six successful clay masterpieces that you will be proud to show off!
They offer affordable classes for an 8-week session, but you can always opt for their cheaper classes if you just want to try things out.
Creative Claythings earned 4.3 stars on Yelp! And have some of the most hilariously positive reviews you’ll ever read.
One jolly student said, “When you take classes here, you really feel like you’re a part of a small and slightly dysfunctional family. In a good way.”
Another dished about their experience, saying, “Taking classes here is something I always look forward to. There was never a time where it felt like an obligation to go to class. Even after the longest day at work, I would leave Creative Claythings feeling energizing and relaxed.”
Sound like a good fit? Then check out their available pottery classes here!
Contact Number: 312-421-8000
Email: claythink@aol.com.
Address: 2255 W. Grand Avenue, Chicago, IL, 60612-1511
Park West Ceramics
Another oldie in the poetry game is Park West Ceramics. These may not have been around for as long as Creative Claythings, but 24 years is still a long time!
While they do have intermediate to advanced classes, beginner pottery classes are their forte!
Their beginner classes typically focus on wheel-throwing, centering, shaping, trimming, and glazing. Yes, all of that good stuff for only a few hundred bucks!
They earned 4.5 stars on Yelp! One happy student shared their first-day experience, “I took the beginning course for adults with no previous background in ceramics. It was a wonderful experience. I had to miss the first day because I signed up late, but Dave, the instructor, was kind enough to catch me up on the second day of class by showing me what I missed the first day.”
While another said, “Two types of clay to choose from, no limits to how much you can throw/keep, tons of glaze options, and a bright, social studio. Plus, the hours are flexible. Miss a class? Make it up another night, and there’s open studio time every Saturday.”
The instructors are talented and supportive, and the fellow potters are a truly amazing community. You’ll walk away with awesome pieces and a few new friends.”
Sound like the studio for you? Then what are you waiting for? Enroll now!
Contact Number: 773-416-5615.
Address: 2646 N Halsted St
Lincoln Square Pottery Studio
Located at the heart of Chicago’s Northside, Lincoln Square Pottery Studio is a non-profit that opened its doors to beginner and expert-level potters in May of 2003.
Their programs include an 8-week workshop for adults, independent study for artists looking for a peaceful place to work, and weekend workshops for our newbies who want to dip their fingers into clay!
Lincoln Square Pottery Studio earned 5/5 stars on Yelp! It’s obvious that they know what they’re doing!
One happy potter said, “This place is fantastic. Meg is a great teacher, and I had a great time. “
Another student wrote, “I am having a blast taking the pottery course here. Meg is an excellent teacher and is very encouraging. The studio is well equipped with everything you need, and considering how much clay you get, even the price of the class is very reasonable.”
What do you think? Does this sound like the perfect school to you? Enroll now!
Contact Number: 773-248-4430
Address: 4150 N Lincoln Ave., Chicago, IL 60618
Conclusion
Have you decided which pottery school to enroll in? Don’t worry; we made sure to list down some of the best ones in Chicago.
What matters is you pick out the one that appeals to you or one that you can conveniently travel to and from without any hassle.
We can’t wait to see your clay creations. Don’t forget to let us have a look!