My friends and I came here spontaneously. It was super packed, but John managed to squeeze us in at the back table. He is super friendly and clearly passionate about art. There were many beautiful pieces to choose from! Overall, it was such a fun and reasonably priced experience. I highly recommend coming here! read more

U Paint I Fire - Ceramic Painted Pieces (Pre-fired) - Art Classes Near Me - Vancouver, British Columbia

The best afternoon!!! I always pass this place on my way to the grocery store, and today I decided to pop in and see what it was all about. It was such a pleasant experience, and the owner John is so so sweet and helpful - just overall a wonderful day! Definitely will be going back :) read more

U Paint I Fire - My piece before firing! - Art Classes Near Me - Vancouver, British Columbia

We booked a table for our group of 6 to paint and enjoy each other's company on a Friday night. It was such a positive experience for all of us. The owner, John was so accommodating and he even allowed us to bring some food in while we painted. This was a success and we each have a souvenir to remember the night. The items were ready a few days later and it was glazed to perfection. Only one of the items, a few spots were missed, so there was a smudge and another area had a dot of white, but all the other items looked fantastic. read more

U Paint I Fire - Art Classes Near Me - Vancouver, British Columbia

What brought me and my partner here was a Groupon to make a few pieces and what we got from this was a lesson in making some simple ceramics that were not that simple when you actually get your hands into the clay and start making things. I have never made something like this, through my days of elementary and high school I may have painted but no cups or plates were made by me so this was a whole new experience. We booked our appointment to come in through John (the owner) and we sat with 5 other people on the night we came in. John has a flare of energy, and he spreads his knowledge about ceramics when you sit there, telling jokes and getting people to introduce themselves to break the ice in the air and to have fun with your creations. The package that we paid for was two items, one was a bowl or cup, the other was a creation of your choice, and each of us started with molding on own creations first. From dishes to plates he has a set of molds for you to get a defined shape from and it is up to you to shape the clay given into the creation of your choice. It may look easy, it may seem easy, it was not easy. From shaping, to cutting the excess clay off each creation it was fun, and gives you a whole new appreciation for people who are able to craft with this substance. The second part of the night here was getting on the rotating spinner and creating a cup or bowl like a scene from Demi Moore in Ghost. Until you try it, you do not know how hard this is for a rookie. There is definitely skill involved in crafting a circular moving object, cause you can turn this thing into a pile of muck if you do it incorrectly, and that is the easy part. There where times were I started seeing my bowl or cup start wobbling, and going south and looking like garbage, and that is where John comes to play and ask you if you want to save it, and he somehow has a way of adding enough water and bringing your creation back to respectable life. After we made shape of our creations, we left them there so that they could go into the oven and bake to make solid. John called us a few days later to come in when we have time to paint our items. So a second visit was in order, and another hour of painting to your hearts content on what shade you wanted your finished product to look. The whole process really shows a different artistic side to you, as what I thought I created wasn't the end result, but I was happy nontheless. After painting my plate and bowl, it was left again to be dried, and to add a clear coating so if you were to use it, it would be safe. John again phoned me to advise that my pieces of art were ready. Something fun to try, whether yourself, with a date, or in a group. read more

U Paint I Fire - Art Classes Near Me - Vancouver, British Columbia

It was my first time to come with my friend, and paint the cute little piggy coin bank. The store owner, John is really nice and helpful to give some brief instructions on painting and explain the procedure of ceramic firing. Because I dripped too much water over the coin bank, it may cause bubbles within the ceramic. John promised to fire it for two times (first time to get water away, second time to set the right temperature for the ceramic). it was a fun experience and definitely I will come back again! Highly recommend! read more

U Paint I Fire - the pig coin bank - Art Classes Near Me - Vancouver, British Columbia

loved it! the owner was lovely and hilarious. was such a great pass time, would definitely recommend! read more

U Paint I Fire - Art Classes Near Me - Vancouver, British Columbia

I can't say enough great things about U Paint and the owner John. He's incredibly helpful and kind. When my dog received a terminal diagnosis, I purchased some clay from John and made a few paw prints. John fired them, I painted them, and they were fired yet again. They turned out so amazing and I'm very thankful to have had John's assistance and guidance. Another plus is that the pottery selection there is great and the prices you see (which are INCREDIBLY economical!!!) includes everything from the pottery piece to the paint and the firing. He also offers private classes for only $57 a pop (the classes will be spread out over 3 days to allow for firing, painting and the final firing). Do yourself a favour. Whether it's date night, a night with friends or something you'd like to do solo, check out U Paint!!! I'll definitely be back!!! Thanks John!!! read more

U Paint I Fire - Puppy paws - Art Classes Near Me - Vancouver, British Columbia

My friend and I had a great time for our first pottery class. John was a great instructor, he was patient, funny, and guided us through the process step by step. Can't wait to come back for our second session! FYI: They only accept debit or cash only. read more

U Paint I Fire - Masterpiece - Art Classes Near Me - Vancouver, British Columbia

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A friend of mine organized a party for us at U Paint I Fire, and it was so much fun! John (who runs it) is very helpful and nice. His prices are very reasonable, and there are a wide variety of items to choose from. I've been back a few times, and I'm looking forward to going again! read more

U Paint I Fire - Before and after photos of a serving plate that I painted! : ) - Art Classes Near Me - Vancouver, British Columbia

I can't recommend this place enough! My partner and I came here for a COVID-friendly date and are so excited to go back. We sat outside and painted on a sunny day, so there was no need for masks. The prices are more than reasonable, the selection of ceramics and paints are great, and the atmosphere is fantastic. Like all the other reviews say, John is lovely! This is an honest little shop that I am happy to support. read more

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The owner was so friendly! We walked in to paint some ceramics and he walked us through everything. Showing us all the different options, then guiding us to where the paints were. It's a nice little place to sit, chat and have a relaxing paint session. I chose a mug, it turned out amazing!!!! I want to come back and paint a matching set! read more

U Paint I Fire - Polka dot mug! - Art Classes Near Me - Vancouver, British Columbia

I was in need of a kiln to fire a ceramic mask I'd made 6 years ago. I discovered U Paint I Fire in my neighbourhood and negotiated a price with John to use his kiln. Since then, I've been coming back as frequently as I find the time to make a new mask, and am always pleased to see John when I walk into his shop. John is a very friendly & knowledgeable guy and really knows his ceramics, glazes & kiln use. I've always had a good experience there and intend to keep coming back. Thanks John! read more

I just love this little place. Not only can you drop in any time and the prices are exactly what you pay on face value but the owner is just so kind and enthusiastic!!! And, the firing was done SO quickly. We got our pottery in two days. Please take note the owner did say the pottery is kept for two weeks after it is fired. There is a ton of street parking and this place is an awesome location for all ages and events!!! There were children, college kids and more all having a good time. Bring your own snacks and water and enjoy a day of creating! read more

U Paint I Fire - Before and after mugs for his and her - Art Classes Near Me - Vancouver, British Columbia

Last week I went to U Paint I Fire to get some plates done. After the Ceramics place at City Center on W. 12th closing down, I was in the mood to do some functional art. I am not saying that what I made is the best art in the world, however, it is nice to eat from a plate that I made. The prices are fair and the person whom owns the place is very sweet, friendly and encouraging. He is much nicer than the lady that was running the Ceramics place, now closed, at City Square. They have a lot of projects to choose from in different price denominations. Just prepare at least 1 hour to work on your project. Below is a picture of my completed project(s) http://isabelle-guns.livejournal.com/1515078.html read more

A warm place to spend some creative time and clear your mind, the owner of the place is very kind and helps. I love going there and so does my son. Highly recommend. read more

A group of us had booked in for an evening of painting and ended up having such a great time. Price wise it's great, there is something for every budget, pay for the ceramic piece and the price includes all painting/firing. John, the owner, went above and beyond ensuring we had everything we needed. We'll definitely be back! read more

We went for our friend's birthday and it was great! The owner, John, was sweet and informative and helped us with our projects. He let us bring our own music and snacks as well! The party was around 2 hours. He even let my friend pick an authentic pashmina scarf for free from behind the counter. There are a lot of options for every budget. I painted a small mug for $11 plus tax. "$11 for a mug?" you ask. But the atmosphere, the experience, the wonderful service and the art you create at the end are worth more than that. Once we finished our pieces, we gave him our numbers and he phoned us a few days later to let us know that our items were done. I'll definitely be back here! read more

Really fun place to spend an afternoon. John will take good care of you and your party while you paint the hours away. Simply come in, choose a piece of ceramics that fits your taste and budget and then let your creativity flow as you transform your blank "canvas" into a colourful masterpiece. When you're done, it'll take 2-3 days for the piece to be finished before you can pick it up. I painted a piggy bank and a mug on my visits and both turned out awesome. If you have a look in mind, bring a photo and John will help you pick out the right glazes to get your desired effect. Also, if you want to get your hands nice and dirty, you can take lessons with John and he'll show you how to use the wheel and make your own creations straight out of the bag of clay. I haven't done this yet, but will definitely take him up on this service in the coming weeks. I really look forward to going back and seeing what else I can whip up! P.S. Most endearing thing about the whole experience is that John really goes above and beyond at trying to make sure everyone feels taken care of. I also love that he tries extra hard to remember faces and names. read more

Super fun COVID friendly activity!! John the owner is amazing! Will for sure be going back

John was very helpful to myself and my girlfriend. It was my first time ever painting ceramics and he was friendly and always quick to help us along. The selection of un-painted ceramics were great and we chose two serving platters to paint and decorate. Space to paint and equipment were all included in the price and it was a great experience for us! Next time I am going to have to try a pottery class :) read more

U Paint I Fire - Art Classes Near Me - Vancouver, British Columbia

Was an awesome experience! John (the owner) is so nice and really funny. Me and my girlfriend were cracking up the entire time! We each made a cup and bowl on the pottery wheel (first time) and are hooked! We can't wait to go back! read more

This place was super fun! They have tons of ceramics to paint and it's a calm relaxing environment ! Love coming here with a bunch of good friends for a day of painting ! The prices range from 10- 45for a piece of ceramic which includes your paints and the other materials ! What a fun day will be back ! read more

U Paint I Fire - Fun day with your friends ! - Art Classes Near Me - Vancouver, British Columbia

This place is so much fun! You can paint ceramics that are handmade by owner ! Lots to choose from and he also does lessons if you want to make your own ! Fun times ! read more

SCAM. I accidentally left a pencil mark on a ceramic plate. I completely erased it and the guy working said I had to pay for it because it couldn't be sold again. It was dead inside so I'm guessing he was the owner and was trying to take advantage of whatever he could. read more

Wish i had known this place existed. A great way to spend a day off for those who love art. John was very very kind :)

John was very friendly and accommodating in arranging this event for my birthday party group. When we got there he was super helpful getting us started, and helping us with painting techniques and tips. No other place I've been too had such good customer service. I highly recommend this place if you're considering painting ceramics. I'll definitely be back! read more

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So much fun. We went the Wednesday before Christmas, which was on Sunday. John, the proprietor, gave us lots of space and information and encouragement. Especially helpful was that there were stencils and books to help those who are artistically challenged. Our painted and fired 'artworks' were ready two days later, as promised. I called and asked John to wrap them all (just newspaper) up so that they would be a surprise to the five of us painters on Christmas morning and he was most accommodating. I would highly recommend for anyone - single, couple, or group. read more

Every holiday season I head over to U Paint I Fire to create unique Christmas presents for my loved ones. John runs this place with a huge heart and immense creativity -- his customer service and his guidance are top notch. I am always impressed by how many people he greets by name, and year after year he remembers details of our past conversations. His ceramics are beautifully worked and stand up to dishwashers and microwaves year after year. The environment is clean and well organized, no matter how many kids (or messy adults) come through. Can't find what you need? John is there in a flash to find it for you. Come back a time or two, and soon enough you'll know where to look yourself. It is always a pleasure to give U Paint I Fire my business, and I encourage you to take a rainy afternoon, grab a paintbrush, and lose yourself in John's wonderful ceramics studio. read more

My girlfriend and I wanted to learn how to make pottery. From beginning to end I was somewhat disappointed. I found out that it was less about learning and more about creating a piece. John was more interested in us being done than actually being creative and learning. The attention wasn't fully on us as he was also helping other customers. After it was fired, we came into paint and eventhough my friend specifically wrote to not have a handle on her piece she made, a handle was put on it. John said he would make another piece that didn't have a handle, but the whole point was to have something she created herself. The colours / glazes to choose from was very limited but found a way to be satisfied with the selection available. I have just picked up my pieces only to see that the colour i chose was completely mislabeled. So disorganized. So the colours of my pieces are mismatched. No apology... So I left feeling like this was a waste of my 70$ I spent, to get two pieces I don't like and the only knowledge I learned was to not return. read more

We bring our students in to paint pottery every school year and John is always patient and accommodating with our group. The kids really enjoy pottery painting and always have a blast! read more

My ten-year-old cousin was visiting for a few days and I took her here to paint some ceramics, but was worried that they wouldn't be ready before she had to leave. The owner, John, ended up firing a half-full kiln just for us and my cousin was super thrilled to get her piece back in time for her flight. Prices are very reasonable and John is kind and helpful, but not overbearing. Also a great idea for customized gifts! I'll be back. read more

I bought a groupon for a friend. The guy gave her a box with paints in it, said they were the only paint she could use. Not a great selection of colors. Seemed old. When the next customer arrived they seemed to get the royal treatment nice paint colors not from the box, also offered nice stencils. buying a groupon shouldn't mean sub standard treatment. Bad advertising because we will never go back and will tell our friends. And when she picked up her pieces they where all in a box with a bunch of others and one was broken. read more

I have been a customer for 2 years! I love coming to paint and relax. No pressure to finish a piece when i visit. John is so accommodating and helpful. Even when there are parties of 10 people he will make room for me or even sometimes I will sit outside in the sun and paint. Love it! read more

Had the best time using a potters wheel at "U paint I fire". My friend and I went in together and did a session together where we got to make two items each and had the most amazing time. John is hilarious ad so friendly and helpful. He won't let you fail, he really helps you at every stage to feel good and leave with something you are proud of. Also he makes all the items you can paint himself! We are 100% returning with friends and maybe for a party. read more

You wont be disappointed! We were warmly greeted by the owner who was so kind and even offered us tea, he was helpful and involved the whole time! He was super relaxed as well and let us play our own music! The prices are SO reasonable and this was SO much fun! I will definitely be bringing my girlfriends with me and anyone else I know. This was an amazing experience and i highly recommend this place! read more

The owner was so nice! The moment we walked in (we were there to paint a plate) he explained how the whole process works. He was also always around to answer all of our questions as we painted. We wanted to add some sponge painting to our plate at the end, and he had really good suggestions about the colors to use to provide good contrast. Overall, a really great experience and I would definitely come back. Looking forward to picking up the finished product in just a couple days! read more

I love this place! The atmosphere is warm and welcoming and John, the owner, is always friendly and helpful. I've been here many times, and will definitely be back. read more

John is probably the nicest, sweetest, most charming human around! The first time I was here, I was with a bunch of friends. I was very overwhelmed at first, but John was very friendly and eased us all into it by explaining how everything works. About a year later, I came back again and he not only remembered my face, but my name as well. The experience itself I find very therapeutic and John is always there for any tips, tricks, or guidance. I love coming here, I'm already thinking about what I want to paint next! read more

Worst place ever! Bought social shopper coupons to go here. For 6 months, I tried to book based on my days off as it changes every week. But it was either full or there wasn't enough people to hold the class. I finally got to go and it was not what I expected. For a class where you make your own pottery, we didn't even get to use the pottery wheel. We just cut out clay, rolled it out and put it in a mold. I still have two more coupons that expires in two days, and when I tried to book an appointment on the last two days that it expires, there are no classes being held because there are no people. Now I'm stuck with two coupons ($28 each) that will expire and go to waste because he can't open up a class for the last two days before it expires. Never going here again, it is not worth it. Time or money! read more

I completely agree with all the other reviewers. John is a wonderful, kind, and caring instructor. My family and I had a marvelous evening out learning how to create our own 'masterpieces' on the wheel. We were able to make some awesome bowls, despite most of us never having worked on a wheel before. We still have to get back to glaze them and are looking forward to another fun family outing. It was also not at all expensive for a very memorable time. Highly recommended! read more