POTTERY STUDIO
With one-on-one guidance or small group instruction and support, you've found a safe place to dig deep and nurture your inner creativity.
I'm an art teacher bringing creative experiences to the rural life of the beautiful Laurel Highlands where the stress of your everyday grind is erased by the peaceful drive to the studio before you even get your hands dirty.
We are located just 12-15 minutes from Latrobe, Ligonier, and Donegal, PA.
467 Hoods Mill Road, Latrobe, PA 15650
Are you ready to try something new?
Unwind from the chaos and discover a new way to relax.
Dive into a hands-on, screen-free experience that sparks creativity and brings calm. Join us for a pottery class and unlock your inner artist. Once you try it, you'll be hooked!
Centering Essentials: Building a Solid Wheel-Throwing Base
One-Time Class
Pottery Progression: A Skill-Building Workshop Series
Weekly & Bi-Weekly Ongoing Sessions
Hand-Built Pottery: An Ongoing Inspiring Adventure
Unique & Seasonal Topics
Young Potters: Hand-Building Classes for Children and Teens
Monthly Themed Classes
90-Minute Private & Semi-Private Lessons
Personalized Instruction
Shape Your Ideas: Open Studio Membership
For the Independent Potter
Centering Essentials: Building a Solid Wheel-Throwing Base
2 1/2 Hour Beginner's Class - The perfect date night, girls' night out, or a place to try something new.
This one-time class is perfect for anyone interested in exploring the world of pottery without a long-term commitment or trying it out before moving forward in our regular weekly or bi-weekly sessions.
Under the guidance of an experienced instructor, you'll work on the pottery wheel, discovering how to properly mold your clay in a step-by-step manner.
By the end of the class, you'll have experienced what it is like to create a small piece of pottery on your own. Working with clay on the pottery wheel can be challenging at first, but as you practice and gain more control over the process, you'll witness the transformation of a shapeless lump of clay into a beautifully crafted piece of art.
Whether you decide to continue your pottery journey or simply cherish the memories of this class, the experience of molding clay into a tangible work of art will stay with you forever. So, come join us and discover the joy of pottery as you unleash your creativity on the wheel!
Make it a private event! Book all 4 spots in one of these classes or contact us to schedule a date and time that's convenient for you.
$65/person
Ages 16 and up
Instructor: Amy Roadman unless otherwise noted.
Potter’s Path: Intro to Wheel Throwing
6-Week Beginner's Class
Wednesdays from 9:30am-noon
September 11 - October 16, 2024
This 6-week session is perfect for anyone interested in learning the basics and building upon those skills.
Under the guidance of an experienced instructor, you'll work on the pottery wheel, discovering how to properly mold your clay in a step-by-step manner.
By the end of the first class, you'll have experienced what it is like to create a small piece of pottery on your own. Working with clay on the pottery wheel can be challenging at first, but as you practice and gain more control over the process, you'll witness the transformation of a shapeless lump of clay into a beautifully crafted piece of art.
As each week continues you'll build confidence in the skills needed to begin shaping unique vessels, adding attachments, and learning all about surface decoration.
$265/person
Ages 16 and up
Instructor: Cray Charlebois
Pottery Progression: A Skill-Building Workshop Series
Weekly Subscription-Based Pottery Wheel Classes
This subscription-based pottery wheel class is where you will be able to build your skills and create personalized projects at your own convenience. This workshop series is designed for those who may still consider themselves beginners but have experienced the wheel at least once before to understand the basics of centering and are ready to take their skills to the next level. This is also suited for intermediate-level potters who aren't quite ready for an independent option like our open studio membership.
With a flexible enrollment system, you can join and withdraw from the class at your convenience, and have access to all class materials and equipment during your enrollment period. Each class will focus on a different goal that you set for yourself. You will have the opportunity to work on projects that suit your interests and skill level, with guidance and support from the instructor to help you achieve your goals in this small class setting.
In Pottery Progression, you'll be part of a community of like-minded artists, and you'll have the opportunity to collaborate and share ideas with others in the class. With regular practice and support from your instructor, you'll be amazed at how much progress you can make over time.
This class meets for 2 1/2 hours once a week and includes access to all the equipment and materials you need to create your projects. Whether you're looking to build your skills as a hobbyist or as a professional artist, Pottery Progression will help you take your skills to the next level. Join us to see where your creativity can take you!
Join anytime there is an open wheel!
Evening Sessions: 6:00-8:30pm
Morning Session: 10am-12:30pm
$48/session
Ages 16 and up
Instructors:
Amy Roadman on Monday and Wednesday
Cray Charlebois on Thursday* and Friday
*Thursday wheel-thrown classes meet every other week or try a hybrid version and meet weekly where you hand-build on the off weeks.
Includes:
- Individualized small-group instruction
- Beginner to intermediate wheel-throwing personalized experiences
- Your choice of stoneware clay
- Two firings (bisque and glaze)
- Choice of underglaze and glaze finishes
- Completed food-safe pieces
- Additional open studio practice time after basic skills are mastered
Please note that this option is recommended for the individual who has experienced the wheel at least once before so that we can focus on the progression of their ideas.
If you are interested in a day that is full, please put yourself on the waiting list by emailing me at [email protected]
As an opening becomes available you will be the first to know!
Hand-Building Classes
Everyday Elegance: Hand-Built Kitchen Classics
Wednesdays, September 11 - October 16 * 12:30pm-2:30pm * $225 * Instructor: Cray Charlebois
Unlock your creativity and learn the timeless art of hand-building pottery in our 6-week class focused on creating functional kitchenware. This course is designed for both beginners and those with some pottery experience who are eager to enhance their skills. Through hands-on instruction, you will explore various hand-building techniques to create beautiful and practical pieces for your kitchen.
Clay Chic Collective: Themed Jewelry-Making Class
Saturday, September 14 * 10am-12pm * $36 * Harvest Magic * Instructor: Cray Charlebois
Creativity and craftsmanship unite to bring you an exquisite jewelry crafting experience!
Join us for a delightful journey into the world of ceramic adornments, as we gather once a month for a 2-hour session of artistic exploration.
Throughout the session, you'll have the pleasure of handcrafting a stunning set of earrings that perfectly complement a necklace pendant designed to captivate attention. Express your personal style further as you mold a charming keychain and a versatile ring dish, all meticulously shaped from clay and fired to perfection. Don't have pierced ears? Create a set of magnets instead!
It takes some time for the clay to dry and be fired so you will be notified as soon as your set is ready.
Clay Chic Collective is a welcoming space for all skill levels.
Coffee Mug Workshop
Saturday, September 14 * 12:30-3pm * $48 * Instructor: Cray Charlebois
Celebrate National Coffee Day by crafting your very own slab-built coffee mug! There’s nothing quite like sipping your favorite brew from a mug you’ve made yourself.
In this hands-on workshop, you’ll learn:
- Slab-Building Techniques: Master the basics of slab-building, from rolling out the clay to cutting and assembling your mug.
- Mug Design and Shaping: Shape your mug to your desired size and style, adding a handle and ensuring it’s comfortable to hold.
- Texturing and Decorating: Personalize your mug with textures, patterns, and embellishments that reflect your unique style.
- Glazing and Finishing: Choose from a variety of glazes to finish your mug. We’ll guide you through the glazing process to ensure your mug is both beautiful and functional.
This class is perfect for all skill levels, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced potter looking to expand your skills.
Add a special touch to your morning coffee ritual with your personalized creation.
Hand-Built Pottery: An Ongoing Inspiring Adventure
Weekly and Bi-weekly Hand-Building Pottery Classes
This hand-building class is where you will be able to build your skills and create personalized projects on a schedule that works for you.
With a rolling enrollment system, you can join and withdraw from the class at your convenience, and have access to all materials and equipment during your enrollment period. Each session will focus on a different goal that you set for yourself. You will have the opportunity to work on projects that suit your interests and skill level, with guidance and support from our expert instructor to help you achieve your goals in this small class setting.
You'll be part of a community of like-minded artists, and you'll have the opportunity to collaborate and share ideas with others in the class. With regular practice and support from your instructor, you'll be amazed at how much progress you can make over time.
Join anytime, no need to wait for a set date with this option!
Morning Session: 10am-12:30pm
Evening Session: 6:00-8:30pm
$48/session
Ages 16 and up
Instructor: Cray Charlebois
Includes:
- Individualized small-group instruction
- Beginner to intermediate personalized experiences
- Your choice of stoneware clay
- Two firings (bisque and glaze)
- Choice of underglaze and glaze finishes
- Completed food-safe pieces
- Additional open studio practice time after basic skills are mastered
Young Potters: Hand-Building Classes for Children
Unlock Your Child's Creativity - One Clay Technique at a Time!
Join us for a journey of artistic exploration through our kids' hand-building pottery class!
Each month we'll dive into the world of clay and learn the fundamentals of hand-building using techniques like pinch, coil, and slab.
Our classes are designed to reflect the magic of each season. Your child will create pottery projects inspired by the beauty and themes of the time of year. From spring blooms to winter wonderlands, every class offers a fresh and engaging experience.
Throughout the year, we'll focus on mastering various hand-building techniques. Whether it's crafting coil-built vases, sculpting with pinch pots, or constructing functional slabs, your child will develop a versatile set of pottery skills.
We believe in nurturing your child's artistic spirit. Our classes provide a supportive and encouraging environment where creativity knows no bounds. Your child will have the freedom to experiment with colors, textures, and shapes while bringing their unique visions to life in clay.
Our kids' hand-building pottery class is split into two sessions to accommodate separate age groups and abilities but does have a flexible age range to coordinate with your schedule.
Our experienced instructor is passionate about pottery and skilled at teaching children. We prioritize safety, fun, and learning in every class.
Ages 6-10: 10:30am-noon
- September 7 - Pinch Pot Ghosts
- October 5 - Pumpkins
- November 2 - Coil Christmas Trees
Ages 8-12: 1-3pm
- September 7 - Pinch Pot Ghosts
- October 5 - Pumpkins
- November 2 - Coil Christmas Trees
$36/session
Instructor: Lauren Henschel
Includes:
- Individualized small-group instruction
- Beginner to intermediate hand-building personalized experiences
- Focus on specific techniques and themes each month
- Mid-fired functional stoneware clay
- Two firings (bisque and glaze)
- Choice of underglaze and glaze finishes
- Completed food-safe pieces
Shape Your Ideas: Open Studio Membership
For the Independent Potter
Our open studio membership is the perfect option for experienced potters who are looking for a space to practice their craft in a supportive environment. This membership is application-only, and we require applicants to have experience with throwing on the wheel and/or hand-building. Approval is contingent on a completed class, private lessons, or approval for participating based on prior experience. All open studio members must have a proven basic understanding of the ceramics process and agree to abide by all studio rules. As an open studio member, you will have access to our studio during open hours to work on your projects independently.
We understand that experienced potters do not require constant instruction, which is why we have a monitor on-site during open studio hours to ensure that the space is safe and functioning properly. However, please note that there will not be formal instruction provided during open studio time.
This membership provides an opportunity for you to work on your own projects at your own pace, while also being part of a community of like-minded potters. You will have access to all the necessary equipment, tools, and glazes in addition to your block of clay to create your own unique pieces. Cozy up with a cup of tea or coffee, grab a snack from the snack bar, and settle into your creative process in our well-maintained space.
Please note that space is limited, and we are only accepting applications from experienced potters who are comfortable working independently. If you meet these requirements and are interested in joining our open studio membership, please fill out an application and we will be in contact within 24-48 hours.
Our current open studio hours:
- Sundays from 10am-3pm
- Tuesdays from 3:30-7:30pm
- Weekdays by appointment
$100/25 lbs. of clay
Ages 18 and up
Includes:
- Unlimited work time during open studio hours
- 25 lbs. of stoneware clay
- Two firings (bisque and glaze)
- Choice of underglaze and glaze finishes
- Completed food-safe pieces
90-Minute Private Pottery Lesson
By Appointment Only
Private Instruction $75/session
Semi-Private Instruction
2 students: $120/session
3 students: $135/session
Includes:
- Individualized instruction
- A deep dive into your trouble spots
- Your choice of stoneware clay
- Two firings (bisque and glaze)
- Choice of underglaze and glaze finishes
PRACTICE MAKES IMPROVEMENT
Have you ever wanted to learn the art of wheel throwing? Look no further! With our 90-minute private lesson, you'll be on your way to creating functional forms or beautiful sculptural works of art in no time.
During your lesson, we'll work together to identify any problem areas and improve your skills, focusing on how to move forward to achieve even greater success behind the wheel. I'll help you to narrow down the specific steps you need to take in order to progress in your wheel-throwing adventure.
Not interested in wheel throwing? No problem! We'll explore other pottery techniques such as slab, pinch, or coil work together instead so you can find the technique that's right for you.
Our private lessons are by appointment only, so you can have the studio all to yourself and focus on your creativity without any distractions.
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced potter, we're here to help you hone your skills and create something truly amazing.
ARE OUR CREATIVE SERVICES RIGHT FOR YOU?
If you're looking for a fun, relaxing, and engaging way to tap into your creative potential, then you're in the right place. With my personalized approach and attention to detail, I'll help you achieve your artistic goals in a way that's both rewarding and enjoyable.
Whether you're looking for a new hobby, a way to relieve stress, or a way to connect with like-minded individuals, my creative services are here to help you unlock your full artistic potential.
You can be a complete newbie or have considerable experience to benefit from using this studio space.
Let me ignite your sense of creativity with a group class, ongoing work sessions, a private group event, or a private lesson.
Hi,
I'm Amy
I’m Amy Roadman, a PreK-12 Certified Art Teacher with 20+ years of experience and the owner of Igniting Creativity LLC.
I'm a teacher bringing creative experiences to the rural life of the beautiful Laurel Highlands where the stress of your everyday grind is erased by the peaceful drive to the studio before you even get your hands dirty.
I believe art and creativity can be taught, that you don’t have to start with innate talent, but instead, a desire to create and practice. By providing opportunities that focus on the overall experience I have learned how to ease the pressure of creating and allow many people to tap into their creative side and find that it can be really rewarding to do so.
As we expand we are bringing on other talented instructors with fine art degrees and years of experience teaching creative classes.
You will find Cray Charlebois instructing some of our adult classes. She has an extensive teaching background and has expertise in this medium and technique.
Lauren Henschel from Hooktastic Designs has taken on our monthly kids' classes and has developed some amazing themed projects.
Help us to welcome them as we build this community!
"I was pleased beyond my expectations with my final product. I have always been a little hesitant to work with pottery. I thought it would be too difficult to manipulate and control. I learned a lot about the way clay works in a fun and encouraging atmosphere."
Donna
"Amy is a natural who was meant to be a teacher. She explains how things work in different ways until everyone understands and can implement the process. Throwing is no easy task but she simplifies it to be manageable and enjoyable."
Lisa
Studio Details
Reach out if you have any other questions!
724-572-7005
Studio Location: 467 Hoods Mill Road, Latrobe, PA 15650
Amy Roadman: Owner & Wheel-Throwing Instructor
Cray Charlebois: Hand-Building and Wheel-Throwing Instructor
Lauren Henschel: Children's Class Instructor
Brooke Roadman: Camp Instructor
- Wear casual clothing - clay is messy but washable
- Leave your jewelry at home
- Wear long hair tied back
- Come with an open mind and a creative spirit
Cancellation Policy:
We understand that circumstances may arise that prevent you from attending the class that you registered for. In the event that you need to cancel your registration, please notify us at least 48 hours before the start of the class.
- If you cancel before the 48-hour deadline, we will issue a full refund of your registration fee.
- If you cancel after the 48-hour deadline or fail to show up for the class there will be no refund issued.
- For ongoing subscription classes only * If you are unable to attend class but do not want to forfeit your spot you will not be refunded but may schedule an extra 2 1/2 hours during open studio hours or by appointment to make up the time.
We appreciate your understanding of our cancellation policy. If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out to us.
Looking Ahead
The growth of this studio is all because of the amazing local community that we live in that is willing to try new things, get out of their comfort zone, and share creative moments with others.
I am beyond grateful for the support that we've seen and can't wait to build more of the ideas I have to make this a place where you feel welcome.
We currently run our electric kiln to cone 6 using Standard Ceramic's 240G white clay with grog and 112 speckled brown clay. Both are excellent choices for their strong, durable, and food-safe qualities.
We will be adding a raku clay to the mix as we plan out our spring and summer schedule.
Something new:
Raku firing is a unique and dramatic method of pottery firing that originated in Japan centuries ago and has since become a popular technique among potters worldwide. The word "raku" translates to "enjoyment," "ease," or "happiness" in Japanese, which reflects the spirit of spontaneity, unpredictability, and aesthetic pleasure associated with this firing technique.
Raku firing is known for its element of surprise and unpredictability, making each piece unique and visually captivating.
The studio sits on nearly 9 acres of land so what better way to celebrate a love of nature and a natural product?
If you are interested in raku firing techniques be sure to let us know so that you can be added to the waiting list!
Do you have any questions? Suggestions? Reach out!
As we grow and add more classes we want to hear from you. What would you like to see? What do you still need to know?