Paint Your Own Pottery Studios

A paint your own pottery studio opened in our neighborhood a few years ago. A newer concept in the Midwest, the studio sparked both my interest and that of my young daughter. We both discovered that painting our own pottery was a fun, creative way to spend time together.

Paint your own pottery studios are for children and adults. Kids love to paint their own creations, adding their own special touches to a piece of art. Adults have the chance to tap into their creative side, and can make truly exceptional pieces of pottery.

In the early 1990s, studios started offering customers the opportunity to paint on pre-made pieces of pottery. By 1996, the paint your own pottery concept had grown exponentially around the United States. The paint your own pottery craze still going strong. Small studies dot the country, including neighborhood establishments and studies found in hotels and vacation spots.

Your first task is to set aside a block of time to paint your pottery. I would suggest schedule at least 2-3 hours of painting time. (You don't want to rush your beautiful creations.) Wear comfortable clothing, and nothing that you wouldn't mind getting splattered with paint.

Your second job is to pick out your pottery piece. Most studios have a wide variety of pre-made pieces to choose from, including dishes, cups, bowls, platters, figurines, letters of the alphabet, and vases. Some pre-planning is a good idea here, as you can literally spend an hour trying to decide which piece to pick out.

You then have to decide on the paint you'll use. I suggest that you rely heavily on the studio's employee for ideas on your piece. Of course you'll have preferences on color, design, and style, but the studio artist can help you pick out the type of paint and offer her professional opinion.

During your first visit to a paint your own pottery studio, you'll most likely be offered a spiel from the artist on brushing techniques, firing procedures, and design ideas. It's in your best interest to listen for ten minutes or so, even the kids. The artists really do know what they're doing, and their tips can be helpful. (For example, I was worried about tracing a design on a bowl in pencil, and the artist reassured me the pencil mark would disappear during the firing process.)

Use a blow drier to dry your painted piece in between colors - this speeds up the process time. I bring snacks and drinks along, depending on the people I'm painting with. (Some people are very detailed oriented, and can take quite a long time to finish a piece.)

When you're satisfied with the final product, hand your piece over the artist and trust that they'll take good care of your creation for a few days. When you pick up your fired piece a few days later, you'll have a keepsake that will last many years. You'll also have wonderful memories of creating something you can call your own, or to give away as a special gift.