Frequently Asked Questions

Who can become a member?

Membership is open to anyone over the age of 16 that has completed a beginner's class and id deemed an independent user of clay.  Although a technician will often be on hand, the studio is not a teaching space (outside of organised classes) and for this reason members will need to have a minimum level of skill.  Recently attending a beginners class in ceramics would be sufficient.  If you are concerned about your level of skill please ask. 

What if I don't need or want 15 hours a week?

Membership is intended to enable makers to experience and develop their skills and knowledge in the full cycle of making processes.  Classes tend to focus just on just the wet clay processes by virtue of the limited time available.
Even if members only use the studio for 7 hours of the 15 hours allowance that would still only make their use of the studio only £6 an hour.  This is great value by comparison to other studios and class-style access.

Is there an induction process?

Yes, an induction session is conducted as soon as you join the studio.  The aim of this mandatory session is to ensure you get the maximum out of being a member.
The induction session is carried out in the first month of membership.  This indiction covers the rules of studio use, health and safety and will assess your level of independence.

Can I share my membership with a friend?

No.  The Studio relies upon its members for the maintenance and upkeep of the equipment and environment.  Sharing membership will dilute this and erode the ethos on the studio.

​

What is included?

Are there any hidden costs?

Membership includes:

• Up to 15 hours/week access to the studio within opening hours
• Shelf space (approx L90cm, W40cm, H40cm)
• Reasonable use of 'House' glazes
• Reasonable use of 'House' clays
• Unlimited bisque firing space
• Up to 40 litres (Super & Full Member)/20 litres (Club member) of (Stoneware - 1260C) glaze firing/month 
• Optional participation in up to 2 Open Studio event per year (spring and autumn)
• Use of all equipment and tools

Are dogs allowed in the studio

No. Pets are not permitted  in the studio. 

We try to make all costs as transparent as possible.  Some studios make additional charges for clay, glazes and kiln space.  At The Clay Loft, we will supply three 'house' clays and a selection of in-house glazes.  These glazes are unique to The Studio and refreshed from time to time.
'Reasonable' use of these materials will be defined if scale and consumption by an individual exceeds anticipated norms for part-time non-production ceramicists.
Additional charges may apply if:

•  you cause damage to the kiln furniture through poor glazing
• additional hours are required (beyond the allotted 15 hours a week
• the 40 litres of kiln space allowance is exceeded
• alternative firing temperature ranges are required (only available if kiln demand is low)

Can I invite friends to join me when I work?

Can I use my own glazes and clays?

Only members will be allowed to use the studio.  Non-members, will be welcome to visit the studio by prior arrangement and for open studio events.  At other times access is limited to members only to provide the most conducive creative environment for makers.

Yes.  Makers will be encouraged to use any materials they prefer. Restrictions will apply though and whilst members are welcome to bring their own materials to the studio but these must be stored on their shelf or removed from the studio when they are not present.  

Can non-members do classes?

Yes!  Classes are open to members and non-members alike.  Usually classes will be adult only (over 16) but introductory classes specifically for children may be arranged during the holiday periods.

Can I buy membership/classes for someone else?

Yes!  Vouchers are available on request. 

---