Giving five stars because it's working for me, but also providing some thoughts on potential improvements and responses/validation based on other reviews. As someone new to pottery who lives nearby, The Pottery Studio has been a great resource. I was never interested in pottery because I have a lot of hobbies and didn't want to add another, but my neighbor asked if I'd be interested and I decided to join her. We have taken three classes so far. The ability to reschedule a class is really helpful when I had a conflict for a regular class session. Emailing to get a makeup class was totally easy and very friendly. All of their policies are clearly spelled-out when you sign up. The only real gap is not receiving an email reminder for a new class with the door code. It hasn't been a problem for me, but with all the missing folks I've noticed on the first day of class, this seems like something that could be automated at low to no cost (and add to their calendars) to get students to the studio on-time. There have been some long waits for kiln times. I have some greenware that sat on the shelf from week two - week four of my hand building class. If I weren't signed up for another class, I would have to ask for access to get my work and hope it would be ok to glaze them. A lot of bisque ware gets abandoned, which is a bummer. I wonder if that is partially the cause or if the journey is the destination for many folks. We love taking classes with Michelle. And we have had make up classes with Laura and Angelica. We have watched Skyler be really helpful and patient with students and members. The ability to come in during non-class times is great. Unlimited access to class clay is fantastic. I wish people cleaned up after themselves and followed the signage more, because I find myself cleaning up after others a lot, but that's what you get in a community environment. I've interacted with a few members who are very open to sharing knowledge. Many other members are working ceramicists and are clearly locked-in, so I try to stay out of their way. Seeing so much of their beautiful work is inspiring. Parking is usually fine, but I am glad I don't live on that street because I do see how it could be annoying. I would be aware of it before I moved in because there is a big sign painted on the sign of this building. It's not stealth or secret. The person in the other review who was recently complaining must be new to the neighborhood because this studio has been open for quite a long time and, while maybe some folks can be described as entitled or whatever, most of the members and students I've encountered are very nice, considerate, and a very diverse group of people. As for the comments about Marshall. I haven't met him, but I did hear his interactions with some staff and realized that he must be the owner (then looked him up to confirm). While not bombastic, his tone didn't sound great when directed at the kiln loader. It was definitely a "yes, Chef" presence. But I've only seen/heard him once in over three months, so it has been a non-issue for me. From a student perspective, if you read the policies and agree to them, there should not be any reason to interact with Marshall. Once class starts, your space is taken and they can't resell it to someone else. I mean, it's pretty obvious why moving you to another month or splitting months doesn't make sense. read more

This pottery studio is a lovely space & the teachers are amazing. Most people are members are kind and helpful. I really dislike the class clay, however. It's so gritty and makes everything come out in varying shades of brown, no matter what glaze you use (perhaps the glaze isn't amazing either, I'm not sure). I'm concerned about the management or owner - they can't seem to retain good teachers long term, and that is a bad sign to me. I've heard from classmates & members that the owner has a very unkind and aggressive management style. If what I've heard is true, I'd hesitate to continue to support this business. read more

I purchased one of the wheel throwing classes for a Christmas gift. It is extremely difficult to deal with the Studio, they have no phone and don't respond to email communication. My daughter was unable to attend her class due to being evacuated from her home due to the fires. She emailed the studio to reschedule and they never responded. NEVER DEAL WITH A BUSINESS THAT DOESN'T HAVE A PHONE NUMBER! Very disappointed read more

This is a great studio if you're new to the pottery hobby. I took my first beginner class here and I learn so much about wheelthrowing and the different steps involved in making ceramics. I like that the studio is open 10-10 outside of other class times to allow you to practice on your own and I highly recommend taking advantage of that to practice on your own. I love that the classes are affordable and also don't have a limit on how much clay you can use/mess up . The area is quiet, no dedicated parking lot for the studio but not too hard to find street parking. read more

The Pottery Studio - Arts & Crafts Near Me - Los Angeles, California

I signed up for a month of classes on the website, and chose The Pottery Studio as they seemed to have beautiful facilities. I normally don't like leaving reviews on things that are customer service based as I think it can detract from the qualities of an otherwise great establishment, however this studio's customer service is particularly awful and should be considered when making an assessment on classes. I attended the first class. The teacher was rushed and it was harder to follow initially. The location was nice and the facility itself is big and beautiful. I was unable to attend some other classes due to an unexpected work trip, and then my car being the victim of a smash and grab in LA, leaving me carless for a bit while it gets repaired. I offered to provide insurance proof of this issue. I reached out to handle the missing classes and find a solution, they are completely unwilling to offer solutions for this. It appears that if you purchase and if something unexpected arises, you must repay for the entire course with a discount (50% off is what they offered me - so nearly $365 for a month of classes.) My suggestion is either purchase the additional flexibility plan at $25 (which brings this one month of classes to $250) or go with a different studio, as the customer service leaves much to be desired as other yelpers have expressed. This isn't a massive company, having great customer service for a Los Angeles based art studio does not feel like a big ask. Unfortunately in this case it is. As of now my $ for my classes is being held hostage, and their extremely vague class policies section on their website leaves a lot of wiggle room in terms of accommodations for life events, even with proper documentation. Looking back I would have gone for POT or a different studio in LA. It's not just about the class or space, it's also about the environment, the people that work here, and providing a safe space to escape daily life. read more

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It's a pretty great studio. I love it. Easily accessible and with open studio hours from 10 AM to 10 PM... 24 hours if you are a member! Cone 10. Friendly and informative teachers too. Nice month-long class programs. Owner is notorious for having a short fuse, but he's never really there so it doesn't really matter much. Basing this review off my interaction with them post pandemic. i'll forgive what happened in the past. read more

I've been a member for nearly a year and there is a very wonderful community here. I'm not the most outwardly social person, but there are some incredibly talented, kind and generous people at the Sherman Oaks location. It is so nice to have a feeling of community in Los Angeles and one that supports the growth and development of a skill. Take a class and then rent a shelf and join the community and make some beautiful ceramics and some new friends read more

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I took one intermediate course and was a member from early 2023 to mid 2024. Overall okay for intermediate folks who had their own tools and already know what they're doing and just need a no frills studio. Studio features - Bare bones AF. This studio and its sister locations are owned by folks who have no interest in pottery and are mostly (if not only) doing it to make money (confirmed by folks I talked to and also the other negative reviews here on yelp and the fact that the owner is defending himself to each one). For example, there are two toilets, one of which is literally in a supply closet where the mops are stored. Another worse example is that the second throwing area in the back is really shoddily built so you can feel the floor shift when someone walks near you (obviously terrible for throwing) or just heavily down the janky stairs. They had a little in person store that was open for some odd hours three days a week where you could buy clay, a wonderful selection of tools, or showcased pieces (not sure whose). They closed that and turned it into a room with more work tables and (surprise) member shelves and the store became online only. - The shelves were nice and large, but the membership prices kept going up. It was 140 when I started, 150 in 2024, and there was a notification that it would increase to 160 when I left. I took a look at the website and they now have many tiers, ranging from $120-180 depending on shelf space. - 24/7 access via keypad which is great for night owls. - There were throwing/trimming tools for beginners but if you were a member you were expected to bring all your own tools. There were buckets, sponges, glazing tongs and bowls, plastic bags, molds and chucks for community usage. - They had a slab roller and extruder Staff - I've heard the teachers are hit or miss. My friend who took throwing classes here mentioned that they had a teacher who had only been throwing pottery for about a year. - I don't know if staff is always present during their official business hours. If you join as a member without taking any classes, it might be hard to figure out who works there if you have any questions. Clay and glaze - Students were allowed unlimited access to whatever clay they decided to use that day (ie student options are limited). - The studio has a wide variety of Laguna, Mammoth, and Aardvark clays to purchase in their online store. - Cone 10. Keep this in mind and make a lot of test tiles if your style uses bright underglazes, as many will burn out at this temperature. After I moved and left, I purposefully looked for a studio that fired to cone 5/6 so that I wouldn't have such a headache figuring out a color palette. - Great glaze selection. Firing - Pieces were charged by the pound during the glazing stage. - Inconsistent but relatively quick turnaround. Member pieces were dropped off on separate shelves for firing but were loaded in with student pieces and unloaded onto shelves based on their firing day (ie "these are all the pieces that were fired yesterday"). This made it absurdly hard to locate my pieces sometimes, and considering the lax system, I was so so afraid of them having been stolen sometimes. read more

Nice, friendly vibes and a well maintained community studio. Sometimes the kilns can get a little backed up if lots of people are trying to fire things, but usually the turn around is pretty quick for bisque and glaze firing, and they have a lot of glazes open for use! I was a student for several classes and then became a member and have felt welcome and supported in both contexts as I learn a new hobby. read more

I have now taken 2 beginners classes (2 separate months) and have been very happy with my experience and plan to take this course maybe 1 more time before moving to the next suggested course. I've seen a few negative comments about the price being too costly and I couldn't disagree more. A huge bonus to a month of classes is that you can use the studio in your own time, minus other class times, and I was able to take full advantage of this especially during my second month of classes and walked away with over 20 pieces. I'm a firm believer that you get out what you put in. I've very much felt welcome in the studio and have randomly gone up to multiple members to ask questions or get advice about my pieces or to borrow a tool and everyone has been so nice! I have not once felt like it is an elitist environment. In fact, to the people who have felt that way I would ask them to consider that maybe if you're new to pottery you feel more vulnerable and maybe that feeling says more about you than the people around you. Just a thought. I find the studio space to be relaxing, calm and a positive environment. Because I had to take a few make up classes I've had the pleasure of working with 4 different teachers which has been a huge bonus because everyone works and teaches differently so I'm benefiting from different styles. I didn't love one of the teachers, she was a little too quiet and I didn't feel like there was a lot of information being put out throughout the process but I think that's more of a personal preference because I've spoken to a few other students who had a great experience with her. read more

I'm so surprised to read the reviews and find anything negative. I shop at the store on Elm street, but work out of the Sherman Oaks location. I'm in my 4th class (I love classes) and intend to finally become a member after this one. Everyone I've interacted with (including Marshall) has been a pleasure and the support and guidance I've received has been wonderful. The membership price is lower than all the other places I looked into, and the facility is lovely- large, airy and clean with exposed brick and wood. The wheels are good quality and very quiet, the glaze selection is always growing, and very importantly, I find most of the others at the studio to be friendly and fun to spend time with. read more

My class was canceled due to covid, and instead of asking for a refund, I trusted that I would be able to have my class rescheduled once they opened back up. Finally, classes are available again for the month of September and prices went up 10 dollars and yes, that's not a whole lot to some, but is unfair to charge people who have already paid for a class. I reached out to Marshall Blair about my issue and asked if I can be accommodated. This was his response. How rude can you be?? The nerve of this guy! Who in their right mind talks to customers this way?? It's sad because the teachers here are actually very sweet people. It's a shame to be working for a man like that. read more

The Pottery Studio - Arts & Crafts Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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I'm surprised to read the negative reviews about Marshall Blair - I had a totally different experience of him, and saw him be kind to other people, and kind to me and my friends. He felt very chill. Kelley is delightful and very welcoming and approachable. I decided to sign up, as did several clay buddies - - we are excited to have a new space to try out, and we can work around our schedules with 24/7 access. And the space is huge and lovely. I just got signed up, but it made this a very happy May indeed! read more

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I love The Pottery Studio location in Sherman Oaks! it's my meditative place to go. It's large. There is always room to work. Nice glazes. The store is lovely and if you order the clay online, they will put it aside for you with your name on it. Work got super busy and I was out of town quite a bit, so I canceled my membership, but iIll be back when work slows down. I love it there. I would always think I would stop in for a bit, then stay for quite a while. read more

I've belonged to this studio for a few years and it's been such a great community. People here are very helpful, I've been able to see my work progress and grow. Classes are nice and the new store is a BIG HELP. Love it here. read more

Culver City studio review Pros: - Very cost efficient membership studio on this side of LA - Glaze test tiles are beautiful (unfortunately rarely look like samples even if you use the same clay) - Very open space, new shelves and equipment - Easy parking on weekends - Label bisque shelves with date of unloading - Store has lots of clay options, tools, and accessories Cons: - Run on bottom line rather than studio/clay best practices - Glazes rarely look like test tiles even if you use the same clay - Don't offer oxidation or other forms of firing - Onboarding is not standardized - everyone is told something different - Don't allow wet sanding nor clay recycling (two clay best practices) - Often not a lot of wheel space - Don't have a lot of tools for member use - Not great studio communication, no emails to members, etc. Bottom line: Cost efficient but you get what you pay for. Don't come here to learn how a real studio is run, but lots of pretty possibilities with clay. read more

I joined the Sherman Oaks studio in February. There was no working kiln for months even as the owner opened a new studio in Culver City. I was patient and even defended the studio (it's new, etc) when people would complain. I had also been warned about Marshall , who has people running the kilns that are not trained in pottery and I continued to be patient after discovering that the kilns are consistently over-fired . And I've tried to be tolerant of Marshall's refusal to run the air conditioning in the 100 plus degree summer weather of the valley. This morning, however, Marshall and I were conversing about a situation I experienced at the studio, Even though Marshall barely knows me, he announced that I was off base for feeling hurt and that I am the kind of negative and petty Potter that he hates. Nothing could be further than the truth about me. But the point is that Marshall defended the Potter I had a problem with because she's like him--businesspeople who care more about making money than treating people with respect. Oh and the end result: after he insulted my personality, I managed to say(through my tears) that I guess I should find another studio, and Marshall shouted, yes, do that ! Please contact me if you feel that Marshall Blair treated you abusively because you are a woman . 310-709-5627 read more

I don't utilize yelp to write reviews, especially not for negative reviews. However, after reviewing reviews for this studio and personally having a negative experience w/this studio, I feel responsible in providing feedback that can be useful for potential new members. The owner Marshall Blair is completely rude and unprofessional. I signed up for a class that did not match my skill level. After speaking with my instructor, she advised me to contact Marshall to work out a resolution. I connected w/him to advocate for a change in class and his response was that my lack of determination and competency is what's is keeping me from succeeding in ceramics. He refused to hear me out terminated our call and w/no resolution. If you are considering joining a studio, there are better options in LA. read more

Just about to finish taking a "Beginners on the wheel" class at the Cypress Park/2808 Elm St location. We accidently booked a more advanced class and they switched us around to the beginners class without any problem. The class was a good mix of being challenging and practice time, but it does cover a lot and you have to be focused to keep pace. While you're a student you can come in outside of class time and still have access to one of the wheels and free clay (open 24 hours but students only have access 10am-10pm I think) which was great in case you want to practice. They do restrict the free clay in the last week since they want you to wrap up glazing and firing by the time the class is actually done. Ana, the instructor, was awesome. She was super positive and friendly and would explain things multiple ways & get hands on with your work if you had issues. Highly recommend her. I also met Robin who teaches the intermediate class and he was super nice and helpful on multiple occasions. Everyone I've spoken with has been really nice, including the non-student members, but most people are listening to music or are hyper focused on their work so it's mostly a quiet, meditative environment, which makes the whole experience relaxing and fun. Haven't been into the attached store yet but it looks well stocked with tools and clay from what I can tell. read more

I just took my first round of classes at The Pottery Studio in Cypress Park and LOVED it. The instructor, Olivia, was really encouraging and kind, and everyone at the studio is really helpful if you're struggling and need advice. The best part is the practice hours - as long as you're signed up for a class, you can come in anytime between 10 am and 10 pm to practice on the wheel, and you have access to all of the class supplies and studio glazes. Everyone respects COVID guidelines and gives each other space. Can't wait for my second round of classes! read more

Don't support this business. Seriously. The owners are not nice people and they're not interested in actually creating community. A four week class for $225 is WAY too expensive. Besides the price, put your money in a better studio. read more

Didn't feel at all welcome in this studio. Felt very cold and elitist. Would recommend going somewhere else.

Do not waste your time and money. The owner, Marshall Blairass, is completely inconsiderate and unprofessional who thinks refund will solve all the problems. You will get what you pay for. This studio runs with poor organization, cheap management, and very bad customer service. I really cannot support a studio owned by someone who thinks it's okay to talk to another adult with total disrespect because he is the boss LOL the worst experience in 2020 and will continue spread my horrible experience with my peers. This isn't the only studio, you are def tripping balls Mr. Blairass. read more

I just took my first class -- Beginners on the Wheel -- with Anna, and it was SO MUCH FUN. Anna is a wonderful and casual teacher. She made the whole experience approachable and not intimidating at all, which was great because my 6-person class was composed of newbies like me. The studio access for enrolled students was impressive! You can get into the studio to practice outside of class 10am-10pm daily as often as you like while you're taking a class. And you have full access to wheels, tools, clay, and glaze, which was amazing! On the COVID front: It's an open airy space with good airflow. Everyone wears masks and is respectful of personal space, so it feels safe to be there. All and all, it was a great learning experience, I'll be signing up for a membership next! read more

I joined this studio in Culver City in November 2021. I was hoping to stay there a long time but after only 10 months I had to quit. The staff is very friendly and they try their best with us potters. But the management of it, not so good..... my pieces, either in bisque or glazed kept on being stolen. I spend my time checking when the kiln will be unloaded so I can be there and give no time for my stuff to be stolen! I had to constantly watch my back! And when I couldn't be at the opening then stuff got stolen because I couldn't always rearrange my schedule with the kilns schedules.... Unless you plan to live at the studio, I do not recommend this place. Not worth the stress! There are plenty other studios in town! read more

It's really great that it affordable but you get what you pay for. The instructors are okay, but it's not very hands on. You basically get a demonstration, the chance to ask a question or two and then you're just on your own. I have lost half of my pieces which really sucks! The organization there is a complete mess. It's almost impossible to keep track of your pieces which makes it really discouraging after putting lots of time and effort into a piece. read more

I took a class a while ago and LOVED my experience. Maryanne was sooooo knowledgeable and kind. It was such a good experience so I signed up for another class a few months later..... Not the same. Mackenzie is such a passive aggressive instructor... It always felt like she had a bone to pick with me. Idk if other people felt that way but I def did not want to go back. I would give 3 stars thinking about her but my first month was good so I will give 4 stars. read more

Just got home from my first pottery class, and I can't wait to go back! I've never done wheel throwing before and the teacher I had, Kelly, was extremely patient and supportive. The space itself is great, open 24 hours to practice, and they have a stellar deal of 150 dollars for four classes and you can come in any time, night or day, to practice for that month, with clay included. Its definitely harder than I expected and I'm going to need a lot of practice, but it's such a friendly place, and I they made me feel comfortable and at home. I highly recommend it! And it's awesome that I can walk there! read more

The Pottery Studio - Yay! I made a bud vase in my first class! - Arts & Crafts Near Me - Los Angeles, California

It would be great if there were some sort of organization with firing and glazing work. Only found 2 out of 4 pieces and went back several times over the course of 3 months to find my work. Had some help from staff which was appreciated but a 50% success rate for just finding my work really doesn't make for a great experience. I will not be taking another class. Coincidentally I found all 3 of my friend's pieces when I went looking so don't think I'm the one that's bad at finding things. It's really too bad because I was enjoying learning and love the space and the people. read more

When I started pottery a few years ago there were so few options to find a space to learn and grow as a potter that was NOT confined to a set time and schedule. I have such a changing work schedule I needed a place that would allow me to go work when I wanted to work with clay. Then I saw this studio had opened up a very large space in the valley!! This place has been a godsend for me especially over the last two years!! The people are so great who run the place and they make sure it is a safe space for all who want to go and learn and explore life with clay! I cannot recommend the pottery studio more!!! read more

24/7 access and lots of nice/interesting potters. I've been a member for many years. Yes, every ceramics studio has a different vibe, I would say this one is 'open', not just 24/7 but in that everyone does their own thing artistically, there are amazing experts and those just starting out. Sometimes the size of the studio and range of expertise can leave newcomers feeling a bit awestruck, but it all shakes out and eventually it feels like 'home'. Kelley (the studio manager) works very hard to listen to concerns and suggestions to improve firing, glazes, etc... and kept the place moving even through Covid. I can't imagine working any place else. read more

The Pottery Studio is a ceramist dream!!!!! By far, hands down, THE best studio in all of Los Angeles. I have been a member for 4-5 years. The space (and the other new studios) are gorgeous! Big open spaces, high exposed ceilings, 2 electric kilns and 3 gas kilns. Work is in out out in days, the studio store is bananas fantastic, not to mention all the members, novice and experienced. The generosity of this community never ceases to amaze me, ALWAYS happy to share techniques and give advice. There is no studio out there that offers access 24/7 with everything you could ever need, including any tool, clay or even classes (throwing, hand building, private lessons AND even a glaze making class!!!!) read more

Have almost finished with my first set of four lessons and have gone ahead and bought another four. Of course I didn't expect to master pottery in four weeks! The classes are fun and you can go back and practice as many times and as long as you want with complete access to materials 24 hours a day. The instructor is very good, the main ingredient is time at the wheel, it takes time to develop technique, so I am patient with the process. It is less important to me to make pots or bowls than to feel confident in my ability at the wheel. That comes with practice. The pretty pots will happen when I know what the heck I am doing. read more

This place is really fantastic! The month class was exceptional and I could not have been more pleased with the whole experience. The facility is top notch and I love how we can work on pieces 24/7. The staff is really friendly and knowledgeable. I would definitely recommend this to everyone I know. It allows a person to be an artist, scientist, mathematician and probably more, all at once. A very creative experience! read more

beautiful, clean, space and everyone is friendly and super helpful. Hidden gem.

My instructor was amazing, but sadly because of their poor organization on finding your pieces after you've taken your class I don't see myself coming back. I completed my first class a month ago, and so far, all of my pieces are still MIA. read more

This place is great. The classes here are super affordable and include tools and as much clay as you need. They also have 24/7 studio time which is great--just don't go during class as there might not be an open wheel. Convenient, easy parking too. read more