Pottery Wheel Classes
With one-on-one guidance or small group instruction and support, Igniting Creativity's pottery wheel classes are safe places 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
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
Wednesdays with instructor Cray Charlebois from 9:30am-Noon
Fridays with instructor Amy Roadman from 6-8:30pm
Saturdays with instructor Cray Charlebois from 10am-12:30pm
pm
Throwing 101: Mastering the Basics of Wheel Throwing
Curious about the pottery wheel? In this 4-week beginner’s class, you’ll dive into the fundamentals of wheel throwing, learning each step from centering clay to forming simple, functional shapes like cups and bowls.
Guided by our experienced instructor, you’ll practice essential techniques to gain confidence at the wheel, discover how to shape and refine your pieces, and even explore basic trimming and finishing skills.
Perfect for anyone new to pottery, Throwing 101 is designed to give you the foundation to turn a lump of clay into your own handmade creation.
$185/person
Ages 14 and up
Wednesdays
January 8, 15, 22, 29
or
February 5, 12, 19, 26
9:30am-Noon
With instructor Cray Charlebois
Teen Throwdown: Mastering the Pottery Wheel
2-Session Teen Class - for beginners or those who want more practice.
This class is perfect for anyone interested in exploring the world of pottery without a long-term commitment.
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 couple of small pieces of pottery on your own. Working with clay on the pottery wheel may feel challenging at first, but with practice and increased control, you’ll watch as a simple lump of clay transforms into a beautifully crafted work of art.
Session one will be focused on building vessels on the wheel.
Session two will allow for time to trim and add surface decoration.
December 7th & 14th
9:30-11:30am
$80/person
Ages 13-18
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!
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 based on prior experience after a visit to the studio.
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. 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.
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 your choice of stoneware clay
- Choice of underglaze and glaze finishes
- Two firings (bisque and glaze)
- Vitrified 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.
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.
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?
