Clayworks Beginner Pottery Classes

Have you ever wanted to drink your morning coffee out of a mug you threw yourself?

Students at Roberson Clayworks learn the basics of wheel throwing, hand building, glazing, and firing. They also explore a wide variety of forms and methods, from functional works like plates and cups, to abstract works inspired by the world around them.

Clayworks’ studio is equipped with throwing wheels for each student and a wide variety of kilns, tools, and glazes to refine creative expression.

This is a beginner to intermediate course geared toward learning and refining ceramic skills.

  • These classes are offered as a benefit for Roberson Members only. Join or renew your membership.
  • Students receive 25 pounds of clay as part of the cost of the class. Additional clay may be purchased when needed for $40 for a 25-pound bag.

  • Open studio time outside of class is included, as well as glazes and firings.

  • Clayworks is an educational studio and can not be used as a production facility. The staff of Clayworks does not assist with an individual’s business.
  • Each course has limited openings. Students 17 years and older are welcome to register. All students must be registered. No substitutes may be sent to class.
  • Roberson Museum and Clayworks are not responsible for firing any student pieces once a class semester is over. The studio is not responsible for any items left behind.
  • Refund Policy: Withdrawals that occur more than 14 days before the start of class will receive a full refund. Withdrawals that occur between 14 and 7 days before the start of class will receive a 50% refund. Withdrawals that occur less than 7 days before the start of class will not receive a refund.

LEARN The entire ceramic process in 12 weeks

Clayworks Resources

  • 18 electric wheels and 1 kickwheel
  • 3 extruders
  • 3 pugmills
  • 4 electric kilns
  • 1 outdoor gas kiln for alternative firing methods
  • full equipped glaze making facility
  • large slab roller
  • 20+ cone 6 glazes
  • advanced students have a choice of several clay bodies

Frequently Asked Questions

Can anyone register for a Clayworks class?

Clayworks classes are offered as a benefit for Roberson Members only. For a full list of membership benefits, and information on how apply for or renew your membership click here.

When ARE CLASSES OFFERED?

Clayworks classes are available year round! Classes run from:

  • February to May
  • June to August
  • September to December

Online registration begins a month before the session starts.

Does Clayworks offer kiln firing services?

Clayworks does not offer kiln firing services for those not enrolled in a Clayworks class.

Can I use Clayworks Studio for commercial production?

No. Clayworks is an educational studio and cannot be used as a production facility. The staff at Clayworks does not assist with an individual’s business.

I can no longer attend a class session I signed up for. Can I receive a refund?

Withdrawals that occur more than 14 days before the start of class will receive a full refund. Withdrawals that occur between 14 and 7 days before the start of class will receive a 50% refund. Withdrawals that occur less than 7 days before the start of class will not receive a refund.

Can I fire pieces once the semester has ended?

Clayworks is not responsible for firing any student pieces once a class semester is over. The studio is not responsible for any items left behind.

SPRING 2025 Class Schedule

MONDAY: 1 – 4 PM
Instructor: Nancy Ryan
February 9 – April 27

MONDAY: 6 – 9 PM
Instructor: Suzanne Northrop Raboy
February 9 – April 27

TUESDAY: 10 AM – 1 PM
Instructor: Nancy Ryan
February 10 – April 28

TUESDAY: 6 – 9 PM
Instructor: Becca Brown
February 10 – April 28

WEDNESDAY: 11 AM – 2 PM
Instructor: Betty McAndrew
February 11 – April 29

 A Roberson Membership is required for Clayworks. Join or renew your membership.

Classes meet once a week for 12 weeks.

There are no classes on Thanksgiving week.

30 Front Street
Binghamton, NY 13905
E: info@roberson.org
P: 607-772-0660

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Support provided by the general operations support grants from the United Cultural Fund, a program of the Broome County Arts Council; the Conrad and Virginia Klee Foundation; the Zoos, Botanical Gardens and Aquaria Program, administered by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation; and the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature.