did a 1 day evening workshop with my boyfriend and the experience itself was average but meh overall. Pros: the instructor was helpful, informative, and very kind (the only reason i gave this 2 stars instead of 1). the experience was fun and i got to create a bowl (a $50 bowl if you pay cash, paid $100 for two) Cons: there wasn't a FAQ message before the class so i didn't know what to bring (or to cut my nails). the class was overbooked so the instructor was bouncing back and forth between two rooms so the class went way over the end time and we missed our dinner reservation. we also didn't receive any updates on our bowls and it had been 6 weeks. i tried to call but no answer and can't leave a voicemail because the box is full. it feels like after the experience, they sorta ghost you. you have to be the one to follow up twice which i found annoying. i had also gone to pick up my bowl because they said it was ready and when i got there it wasn't ready. had to go back again a week later. in all, i won't be coming back and wouldn't recommend it to others. read more

Park West Ceramics - Art Classes Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Dave is a great instructor. He is supportive and welcoming to everyone. He and the other instructors are patient and encouraging. read more

Fantastic studio and classes! My instructor was so nice and not judgmental at ALL with our beginner classes. It was exactly the right environment for learning something new. The eight week workshops are such a good value because you make a minimum of 12 pieces and then have unlimited clay and open studio every Saturday to work on more pieces if you want. I can't wait to take another class here! read more

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My sister and I had the best time at one of the workshops. Dave was so funny, helpful, knowledgeable, and just overall outstanding. He created a judgment free environment, and the whole class was interacting and laughing with each other the entire time. The price of the workshop is such a great value for the experience and education you get, not to mention the fact you get to take home what you create. We would absolutely go back again, it was such a fun evening. Such a perfect activity for a date, girls/sister night, or a gift for loved ones! read more

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Amazing studio with great atmosphere for beginners to advanced potters. Dave and his team are all very accommodating for anyone taking the classes and wants everyone to walk away with pieces they love. If something comes up and you need to switch class dates the instructors are happy to accommodate. Highly recommend Dave and all the instructors at Park West Ceramics. As a beginner I felt welcome. read more

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I can't say enough good about this studio! It's exactly what I was looking for, I haven't touched clay in about 4 years and took a 2 hour wheel throwing class last night. The attendees were all super nice, a lot of couples, people brought wine and we all chatted, we started on wheel throwing and Dave the instructor and owner was SO patient and nice, he got hands on with some student that's needed it and was very informative. We each finished a beautiful bowl we can come back to pick up in 2 weeks. If you paid in cash you got a discount so the class was only $40 which was great, it's a great location and for a clay studio it was VERY clean! I'll be back for the 8 week class! Update: you pick up your pieces 2 weeks later! Love them! read more

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This was a wonderful experience. Dave does a fantastic job leading the students through the 10 weeks. I felt safe and welcome. Park West Ceramics if highly recommended by me for any level. Dave is very flexible with making up missed classes and has open studio times for you to catch up or practice and there are no costs for that. It's really a great deal and fun! read more

I did ceramics for years a while back, and Park West has brought me back together with this old love of mine! Attending my weekly class is like therapy-- tune out the outside world or any stresses you may have to reengage your brain in a new and fun way. Whether you are a vet or brand new, there's a class for you. The 8-week sessions (beginner or advanced) are tailored to your skill level. Each 3-hour class starts with instruction and a demonstration from the teacher, followed by plenty of time to make your own creations. The first several weeks are for throwing, followed by a session or two to trip your pieces that are ready for firing, and the last class is for glazing. And there's open studio on Saturdays if you want to come in again that week! I highly recommend Park West if you're looking to take up a new hobby or if you're like me and getting back into the swing of things. Can't wait for my next sessions to start! read more

Your experience here will completely depend upon your instructor. Both teachers foster a very supportive, non-judgmental atmosphere, but could not have further opposite methods and opinions. The classes are three hours (weeknights and Saturdays available), which gives sufficient time for clean up without rushing through your pieces, as well as open wheels on Saturdays if you're not quite getting it. Clay is unlimited and you can walk away with as many pieces as you have time to make. Solid selection of glazes. They're more expensive than Creative Claythings, but like I said- unlimited clay and way more glaze choices. They lose a star for location, as parking is absolutely miserable. Take the bus. read more

I took the advanced/intermediate classes here a couple of years ago to get my hands in clay again and it was fantastic. I was allowed to do whatever I wanted project-wise but the instructor that ran the class made sure to show us at least one technique at each class. The people who run the place/teach there are really laid back and cool. If I could afford it, I'd never stop going! They do - however - offer you $25 if you re-enroll for a 2nd semester. They also have a nice gallery in the front that's full of reasonably priced work. read more

A really nice and laid back place to work with handbuilding or wheels. If you're a true artiste, Dave will work with your vision (whatever that may be) and point out some cool stuff you can use. And if you're not, he'll guide you the best he can. Both instructors will let you go at it your own way. Yes, it's a bit messy/disorganized- but the vibe is like hanging out at a friend of a friend's house. I took a few ceramics classes in college and thought it was nice that I could just experiment and try different things here without someone hovering around. On the other hand, it can be frustrating if you have a particular question and the instructor is engrossed in a one-on-one with a student (unless of course, you are said student). Anyway, I've done two sessions and I think it's worth it. You just have to remember- you get what you put into it... if you go on your class day plus a Saturday (open studio), it should be well worth it. read more

I took the beginning course for adults with no previous background in ceramics. It was a wonderful experience. I had to miss the first day because I signed up late, but Dave, the instructor, was kind enough to catch me up on the second day of class by showing me what I missed the first day. The classes themselves are rather laid back, which is nice when you are just starting out and you get frustrated when not everything turns out perfectly. You might think the price is a bit steep as I initially did, but considering you get 3 hours of instruction a week, plus you can come back every Saturday (open studio) for as long as you want to get extra practice, it's a great deal. Additionally, there is unlimited clay and supplies, which helps alleviate some of the pressure if you are a newb like me. I ruined a few bowls and vases at various stages of my learning, but I never felt that terrible about it afterwards because I knew I could just make another one with the unlimited clay. I think the 3-hour class is a perfect duration for class. Dave (or whoever the instructor is) will spend about 15 or 30 minutes of actual instruction/demo, but then for the rest of class you get to try it out while he goes around to help you. Any shorter of a class, you might feel like you didn't get to fully practice, and any longer of a class, your back will probably ache from sitting at the wheel too long. Dave was our primary instructor, but Theresa also filled in a couple times for our class, and she was also an excellent teacher. I actually liked having 2 different teachers sometimes because I got to see two slightly different ways of achieving the same goal, e.g., dropping the hole and opening. After the 8-week course, I have 17 pieces to my name that I was able to take home with me. Again, that's with no previous background in ceramics. read more

I love, Love, LOVE PWC. My boyfriend at the time paid for me to take an 8-week class there (heh: because it was "the cheapest one" he could find), and I rediscovered the love for building with clay that I though I'd left in my high school art class. Since that one class, I have re-enrolled a few times in the same beginner class, yet still managed to learn something new every time. Dave Norinsky, the owner and main instructor, is a great guy. He's really talented and has acted as a sounding board which has encouraged my creativity. The only reason I haven't been back for a while is because I'm currently in school. The second I graduate this summer, I'm signing back up! I miss it there like crazy. read more

Park West Ceramics - Handbuild Greenware by Kathy Anderson, at Park West Ceramics, 2008 - Art Classes Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Started with the beginner class here and have been repeating the advanced class on and off for 2 years. Two types of clay to choose from, no limits to how much you can throw/keep, tons of glaze options, and a bright, social studio. Plus the hours are flexible. Miss a class? Make it up another night and there's open studio time every Saturday. The instructors are talented and supportive and the fellow potters are a truly amazing community. You'll walk away with awesome pieces and a few new friends. read more

Fantastic class & studio! Took the beginner's intro to pottery 8 week course. Great speed. Great teaching. I had absolutely no pottery experience whatsoever and it was the exact approach & teaching that is necessary. Not too fast, not too slow w/ availability & time to get add'l guidance if needed. Dave (studio owner) is fantastic. The classes can be flexible w/ your schedule as well, which is extremely appreciated. Would highly recommend for anyone looking to venture into a new hobby. Hoping to take another class soon! read more

I have been going to the studio for almost 4 years and finally getting around the writing a well-deserved review! I was in the advanced class and I love how flexible it is with open studio Saturdays. The unlimited clay makes it so easy not having to manage your own clay and I love the new speckle clay option. Everyone is so friendly and it is a great place for both beginners and seasoned potters. 10/10 you should go take a pottery class from park west! read more

I ventured out and bought a coupon for a 2 hour workshop at Park West Ceramics and I am so glad I did. Dave is a very patient and dedicated instructor. His studio is suitable for 7-9 in a classroom and was very accommodating with his schedule for classroom time. My girlfriend made a beautiful vase and I made a large rice bowl that I love and will be back after the ceramic is ready for glazing. read more

Right now I am giving 1 star because of all these reasons. I signed up for the groupon. Day of class the instructor was late, and it was a rush to get everything set up for the class since no one prepared anything for the class. The class was alright once started. Well we told them to glaze them since we live over an hour away. They said come back in 3 weeks. Well came back in three weeks and no pottery. We thought maybe haven't completely finished. No one there had any clue of what was going on. Little annoyed because drove over one and half hours to get nothing. Well decided to show up again three weeks later. This is after I have text and emailed the owner what ours looks like. He said he would look before we came. He did not. We showed up and did not find ours. Also he was not there to be of any assistance. So at this point I would not go to any classes again until better organized. Also I have been told I will either get a refund or he will Finally start looking for my pottery. So depending on the outcome there I may bump up a star or two. read more

Had the google offer to try the intro class - so very glad I did! Dave was our instructor for the evening - his instructions were clear, he was very patient and was very helpful. I would definitely take a classroom session to learn more now. As soon as my schedule settles down and I can dedicate the 'drive' time to come out that way I will sign up. Looking forward to seeing their new studio too! If you have the opportunity to try it - don't hesitate - I found it fun, relaxing and something I would like to explore further. Thanks Dave! read more

Since my initial review, Dave has graciously refunded the cost of the workshop, so I consider us square.

This place is great! I can't wait to take another class in the fall. The opportunity for being totally creative is endless. And you can make as many pieces as you'd like as the clay is unlimited for beginner and intermediate classes with plenty of studio time available. read more

Great place !! Love my Thursday classes and even better open studio on Saturdays .... I highly recommend this place.

Been to many pottery studios in different cities and this is by far my favorite. Great hours for people who work and everyone is super friendly and helpful here. I'm an experienced potter, but I've been really impressed with how fast the beginner classes progress. Kudos to the instructors and the students! read more

I bought a groupon for Park West Ceramics 2 hour class. I was a newbie. I never touched clay before but I made it through class. I had a few sticky moments where I ruined my bowl but my instructor was nice and took the time to help me. I would go again but I think I would want to attend a longer more structured class. P.S. if you do a groupon as a date, don't dress up. This class is all about getting dirty. read more

Have loved my experience at the studio. I had no prior wheelthrowing experience and signed up first for the beginner class and second for the intermediate class. The beginner class especially is really well-structured - you learn a new skill each week and have plenty of time to practice on your own during the open studio hours on Saturday. I made a lot of pieces I loved, even during the first 8 weeks, including bowls, mugs, and pots for plants. The instructors are approachable and I found they were also flexible with people's travel schedules and unique needs. Getting unlimited clay included as part of your class cost is also a great deal, especially when I've looked at options offered at other studios. My experience with Park West has motivated me to continue wheelthrowing as an indefinite hobby and I would encourage anyone who's interested in exploring it to check out classes at this studio. read more

Love the classes! the teachers are great and you end up making a bunch of things to take home. (especially if you take advantage of the Saturday open studio) read more

I took the beginner class a couple years ago with a few friends. It was such a good experience that we took the class again this year. The teachers are very helpful, and you're encouraged to come in on Saturdays for open studio for more practice and to make more pieces. If you're looking for a new activity to try, I'd highly recommend signing up for a class - it's a great way to unplug for a few hours and engage in something different! The cost is also very reasonable considering that sessions are 8 weeks long, classes last 3 hours, you're encouraged to come in outside of class to make more pieces, and you're adding some cool pottery to your home or able to gift it to friends and family! read more

If you are a beginner or intermediate - I can really recommend attending pottery classes at Park West Ceramics, Dave is very helpful and the atmosphere is very friendly. I learned a lot and everyone that is more advanced than you are very helpful too. Thank you! Will continue with pottery back home in Sweden :) read more

Highly recommended! This class was fantastic, Dave was an excellent teacher, and I came out with some gorgeous pieces. I will definitely be taking a class again soon. read more

I've been to other pottery studios and will be taking my classes at Park West Ceramics from now on. I took a hand building class. The instruction was excellent. The owner provided excellent customer service and was very accommodating including offering a flexible class schedule. The bowl I made is stunning and I can't wait to see glazed when it comes out of the kiln. Having tried other studios I highly recommend Park West Ceramics. Not only will you have a great experience, you'll have a beautiful piece of pottery to show for it! read more

Great, supportive environment for beginning to accomplished clay folks. Dave, the main instructor and owner, is a gifted adult educator and artist. As one of the many independent study students, I have all the support I need and all the privacy I want to pursue my interests and my style. Park West is a small, friendly and respectful community in a clean and sunlit space. I recommend the classes and the independent study with enthusiasm. read more

I have taken classes before in another state in several studios and, in comparison, this place really disappointed me. I paid over $200 (I think $235..) for 8 weeks of class this past fall/winter. However, there are some major downsides and few upsides. 1) The class was never really a class. A girl would offer to show us something each time... I can't too much complain since I liked the freedom to just do my own thing, but for someone who doesn't know how to throw yet, this would be a terrible experience. 2) The place is very messy and disorganized. I know it's clay and clay gets everywhere, but there are ways to keep things clean and nice. Not happening here. 3) Tools are scattered, so it's hard to find what you need. 4) The clay is really poor quality. It's unlimited, which is nice, but it's all recycled in house and most often really wet and weak and sometimes too wet to even wedge. One night all my clay had little wax beads strewn throughout it, so all my pieces would rip apart while on the wheel. 5) Our teacher never seemed able to figure out the holiday schedule and it was always a mystery as to when we should show up next. Overall, I feel like they're more interested in making $235 a pop than teaching people how to throw with clay. Sadly, I would not recommend this place. Save your money and find a studio that's more organized and has better clay. read more