This page contains a list of the most common questions (and answers!) first-time visitors to the Pottery Project often ask.
Have another question? Please don't hesitate to contact us!
Have another question? Please don't hesitate to contact us!
what safety measures are in place for covid-19?
Our customers and staff safety is paramount and we have worked hard to maintain a safe environment for everyone.
- We have reduced our capacity and continue to keep our premises well ventilated.
- Face masks are optional; feel free to wear one if you want to. We no longer require our staff to wear masks. If however you would prefer the member of staff who is serving you to wear a mask please do not hesitate to ask.
- We provide table service to limit the amount of movement of customers and ask that once seated to paint, you stay seated until you have finished and ready to leave. Our staff are available to answer any queries and bring you anything you need.
- You will find hand sanitisers available at our entrance, as well as on each individual table and ask that you use these before painting. Our staff will be washing their hands regularly too!
- We have introduced enhanced cleaning protocols; be assured we will be cleaning the counter, till, card machine and other touchpoints regularly. All equipment and surfaces are cleaned and sanitised between use.
- For reasons of hygiene and convenience we prefer and encourage card and contactless payments, although we can accept cash.
- If you would prefer to paint with aprons, please bring your own. In our experience the majority of customers do not need them as the paint is washable.
- If you feel unwell or believe you may have Covid-19 symptoms PLEASE STAY at HOME! If you have booked in advance please contact us to cancel your booking ASAP and do not visit to collect/return pottery until it is safe to do so.
- We ask that all children are supervised closely by their accompanying adults to help ensure everybody's safety and well being.
do i have to book?
Advance booking is required for groups of 6 or more, or if you are visiting with a baby or toddler and would like help with their hand/footprints. Complete our booking enquiry form or telephone us on 01442 865544 during our opening hours.
During termtime for smaller groups (less than 6), booking is not necessary as we welcome walk ins.
School holidays can get quite busy so you might prefer to book in advance. During school holidays we take bookings for any group size from 2+
During termtime for smaller groups (less than 6), booking is not necessary as we welcome walk ins.
School holidays can get quite busy so you might prefer to book in advance. During school holidays we take bookings for any group size from 2+
How much does it cost?
There is a studio fee of £5 per person who paints (reduced to £3.50 per person for groups of 6 or more). You then pay for the pottery you choose. Our pottery selection ranges from approx £3.50-£30. The studio fee covers the cost of the paints, materials (including stencils, stamps, sponges, brushes etc), glaze and firing. The fee applies per person per visit and not per item you paint. Of course if you don’t paint, you don’t pay a studio fee!
If you decide to join as a member, there are no studio fees to pay during the duration of your membership.
If you decide to join as a member, there are no studio fees to pay during the duration of your membership.
how long does it take?
This is a tricky one to answer – how long is a piece of string?! The time it takes to paint pottery depends on a number of factors including the age of the painter(s) (younger ones often have a limited concentration span!), the number and size of the pottery items chosen etc.
However, as general rule, for painters aged approx 7yrs + we would recommend you allow approx 1-2 hours. Younger painters generally tend to take less time. Usually you are welcome to stay as long as you like, although at particularly busy times we may introduce limits of 2 hours.
Please allow 7 days for us to glaze and fire your piece(s). When you have finished painting we will let you know when your pottery will be ready for you to collect. If you are in a rush and need it sooner, please let us know and we will try to turn it around quicker if we can.
However, as general rule, for painters aged approx 7yrs + we would recommend you allow approx 1-2 hours. Younger painters generally tend to take less time. Usually you are welcome to stay as long as you like, although at particularly busy times we may introduce limits of 2 hours.
Please allow 7 days for us to glaze and fire your piece(s). When you have finished painting we will let you know when your pottery will be ready for you to collect. If you are in a rush and need it sooner, please let us know and we will try to turn it around quicker if we can.
what age is pottery painting suitable for?
Any! Our youngest customer to date was just 30 hours old and our eldest 80yrs+ !
All the paint is non-toxic and washable, so no worries about splatters of paint on your clothes!
All the paint is non-toxic and washable, so no worries about splatters of paint on your clothes!
is there parking?
We have 2-3 spaces available directly in front of the building. You are also welcome to double park behind these spaces, just let us know on arrival. On weekdays please refrain from parking in spaces that run alongside the hedged boundary as they belong to neighbouring businesses.
On weekends there is generally more parking available surrounding our building as the neighbouring businesses are not open.
There are no parking restrictions in Northbridge Road, although please be aware that it can be busy, especially during the week.
On weekends there is generally more parking available surrounding our building as the neighbouring businesses are not open.
There are no parking restrictions in Northbridge Road, although please be aware that it can be busy, especially during the week.
How do i pay?
We prefer and encourage card and contactless payments, although we also accept cash.
can i paint at home?
Definitely!!
We introduced Paint-At-Home kits during lockdown. They have proven popular and we are continuing to offer this service; perfect for parties or simply so you can enjoy some mindfulness and me time painting at home or in the garden. You can pop in to choose your pottery and paint which we will package for you to take home.
We introduced Paint-At-Home kits during lockdown. They have proven popular and we are continuing to offer this service; perfect for parties or simply so you can enjoy some mindfulness and me time painting at home or in the garden. You can pop in to choose your pottery and paint which we will package for you to take home.
can you put the items in the dishwasher or microwave?
We do not recommend use in the dishwasher or microwave.
can i make my own pottery? do you have a pottery wheel?
No, unfortunately we do not have the facilities for using wet clay on the premises.