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.
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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 Clay Loft 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.
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What is included? |
Are there any hidden costs? |
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Membership includes:
Are dogs allowed in the studioNo. Pets are not permitted in the studio.
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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 Clay Loft 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:
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Can I invite friends to join me when I work? |
Can I use my own glazes and clays? |
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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.
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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.
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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.
What are the studio firing temperatures and cycles?The studio fires stoneware to high fire (cone 9).
We operate 3 firing cycles as standard (additional firing cycles are offered in support of earthenware and sculptural masterclasses) Bisque 1: This cycle fires 100C/hr to 600 with no soak and 250C/hr to 1000c with no soak. Bisque 2: This cycle fires 50C/hr to 300c with a 2hr soak then 100c/hr to 600c with no soak and 250c/hr to 1000c with no soak. Glaze: This cycle fires 100c/hr to 600c, no soak, 250c/hr to 1265c with 15 minute soak. |
Do you offer a kiln hire service?No. Studio kilns are reserved strictly for use by studio members and classes. no work origination from outside the studio can be fired in the studio kilns.
Can I purchase clay directly from the studio?Yes. Three stoneware clays are supplied by the studio. These clays are available to purchase by members and the public. Prices are available on request and published in the studio.
Can I buy membership/classes for someone else?Yes! Vouchers are available on request.
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