Class FAQs

Do I need experience to join a class?

Not at all! Our tasters, courses, and workshops are designed for everyone — from complete beginners to those looking to develop their skills. Just check the class description when booking, as some sessions are specifically for Complete Beginners or Improvers only.

What should I wear to class?

Wear clothes you don’t mind getting a bit messy! We provide aprons, but clay and glaze do have a habit of getting everywhere. It’s best to avoid loose or dangly clothing, and please leave jewellery at home.

What’s included in the class price?

Each class includes professional tuition from a practising artist or maker, fair use of clay, tools, and equipment. Firing and glazing are also included unless otherwise stated in the class description.

How do I book a class?

All bookings are handled online via our website. Simply choose the taster, workshop, or course you’d like to join, click Book Now, and follow the checkout process.

Do you run classes for children or families?

Not at the moment — all of our sessions are for adults aged 18+. However, we do hope to offer family-friendly sessions in the future, so keep an eye on our website or sign up for our newsletter for updates.

Can I give a class as a gift?

Absolutely! Gift vouchers are available and can be redeemed against any class or workshop. They’re valid for 12 months, giving plenty of time for the lucky recipient to choose something that suits them.

What if I can’t make my class?

We understand that plans change, but as a small studio we need to run all classes at full occupancy to cover teacher and studio costs. Unfortunately, we can’t offer refunds, swaps, or transfers for missed sessions.

If you can no longer attend, you’re very welcome to gift your place to a friend or family member — just let us know who’ll be coming in your place before the class begins.

Membership FAQs

What is included in a studio membership?

Use of pottery wheels, kilns, tools, and personal storage. Members also get discounted firing fees, free technical training, and access to member events.

Are memberships suitable for beginners?

We recommend starting with a course before applying for membership, to build confidence with studio processes and learn the basics of hand building and/or throwing techniques as studio time is independent.

Can I try the studio before joining?

Yes – a course is the perfect way to experience the studio and gain making experience before committing to membership.

What membership tiers do you offer?

We have flexible packages starting at 5 hours/month through to full-time access.

How do I book my studio time as a member?

We’ve capped our memberships so there is no booking system - you are welcome to use the studio any time when we don’t have classes on. Our current membership opening hours are…

  • Mondays - 6am to 11pm

  • Tuesdays - 1pm to 5pm

  • Wednesdays - 6am to 5pm

  • Thursdays - 2pm-11pm

  • Fridays - 6am to 11pm

  • Saturdays - 6am to 11pm *closed for workshops 2x per month

  • Sundays - 6am to 11pm

Do members get any extra perks?

Yes – perks include discounted firings, open studio events, a website makers profile, access to pottery trips such as Potfest and Ceramic Art London, discounts on courses, as well as training in studio practice. You’ll also have access to peer learning in our communal studio, a library of books, plus free bookable mentoring/advice sessions with our Founder as part of your membership, which makes our studio great value for money.

Can I share my membership or bring visitors to the studio?

No - we do not allow visitors to Marsh Farm Pottery outside of our open studio events. Your membership is for you only.

What if I want to end my membership?

When you first join us, there is a minimum of 3 months contract. After the first 3 months expires, then it is a rolling contract and you can hand in your notice at any time.

We find it takes new members time to settle in and it protects us from people joining who are not really ready for the next step. New joiners can only hand in their notice once the minimum contract term of 3 months has lapsed.

The notice period is so that we can advertise and find a replacement member. We are a small studio and rely on our members to subsidise the space so it is affordable for everyone.