Category:Pottery Studio

Inside the Pottery Studio

Kiln Area

PLACEHOLDER

Summary

Pottery Studio User Guide

This is a list of rules and advice for using the pottery studio.

1. Safety Guidelines:
   1. Always wear appropriate attire: closed-toe shoes and avoid loose clothing or jewelry that could get caught in equipment.
   2. Use protective gear such as aprons and gloves when necessary, especially when working with a hot kiln.
   3. Follow all safety instructions provided for the use of equipment (e.g., kilns, wheels and grinders).
   4. Do not operate any machinery without proper training.
   5. Report any accidents, injuries or equipment malfunctions immediately to the shop manager.
2. Studio Usage & Equipment:
   1. Members must sign up for studio time in advance, especially for wheel or kiln access.
   2. Respect others' studio time and workspace; avoid using another member's personal materials or equipment without permission.
   3. Clean all tools and workspaces after use (e.g., clean clay tools, wash wheels, brushes and buckets and wipe down workstations).
   4. Keep the studio tidy and organized, including cleaning up clay debris and assisting with emptying water buckets and maintaining clean sink and floors.
3. Material Handling and Storage:
   1. Only use the glazes and clays purchased through the Port City Makerspace Pottery Studio. Any outside clay or glaze must be approved by the studio manager.
   2. Properly label your pieces before firing, as unmarked work may be discarded or misplaced.
   3. Store personal materials in designated rented lockers and label them with your name.
4. Kiln and Firing Policies:
   1. Only authorized personnel may operate the kiln. Do not attempt to fire your own pieces unless you have received proper training and approval from the shop manager.
   2. Firing schedules will be posted weekly. Always check with the kiln master regarding changes in schedules or specific firing needs (temperature, time, etc.).
   3. Do not overload the kiln and ensure that your pieces are placed safely to avoid damage during firing.
   4. Any damage to the kiln or other equipment due to improper use may result in repair charges.
5. Studio Expectations:
   1. Be respectful and considerate of other studio members.
   2. No disruptive or disrespectful behavior, including inappropriate language or actions.
   3. Be mindful of shared space and limit personal belongings to designated areas.
   4. Studio time is shared - be punctual for your scheduled sessions.
6. Firing and Finished Work:
   1. Check the completions status of your work before coming to pick it up. Be prepared to be flexible regarding delays or changes in firing schedules.
   2. Place your work on the proper shelf when it is ready for glazing or further processing.
   3. Remove your pieces from shelves or stations within the allotted time frame to allow space for others.
7. Membership and Studio Fees:
   1. Studio membership and usage fees are due on time and failure to pay could result in a suspension of access.
   2. Respect membership agreements, including cancellation or renewal policies.
   3. Follow all specific rules related to special events, workshop or classes held in the studio.
8. Respect for Intellectual Property:
   1. Do not copy or replicate others' artwork without permission.
   2. Be mindful of others' privacy and work and do not photograph or share their creations without consent.
9. Environmental and Community Responsibility
   1. Recycle clay scraps where possible.
   2. Please keep water usage to a minimum and adhere to the rules and regulations of the sink and cleaning process.
   3. Use environmentally friendly practices in your glazing and firing processes.
   4. Participate in community events or programs organized by the studio to foster a positive creative environment.

Tools

Resources

Common Consumables

• Clay
  • Laguna Clay – B-Mix 5
    • Its smooth, porcelain texture is a pleasure to throw and form, and it fires to a cream color in oxidation.
    • $28.75 for 25lb bag.
  • Laguna Clay – #60
    • Stoneware clay with specks that bleed through the glaze, giving the appearance of iron burning through, typical of reduction glazes and clays.
    • $28.00 for 25lb bag.
  • Laguna Clay – #50
    • A stoneware favorite, it is a light sand color with fine specks. It has an excellent throwing body, which enhances glaze colors and effects.
    • $28.00 for 25lb bag.
• Glaze
  • Glaze Membership - $10.00 on the first of each month.
  • Amaco makes a variety of glazes for pottery that come in different colors and consistencies. They can be used for dipping, layering, or brushing.
  • Some Amaco glazes are food-safe, while others are unsuitable for food-contact surfaces.

• Lockers
  • Pottery Storage Rental - $10.00 on the first of each month.
  • 17″x15″ storage spaces with a card tag, a ventilated door, and an independent locking system.
  • Space holds up to 55 pounds.

Layout