Learn How to Make Ceramics at Your Local Chicago Studio

Handmade ceramics can add color and texture to any living space and you can learn how to make your own with pottery classes in Chicago. A quick ‘ceramics classes near me’ search is all it takes to find a local pottery studio, but our curated selection of classes is where you want to start. Before you know it, you’ll be making beautiful, one-of-a-kind ceramics to show off or wrap up as gifts for loved ones.

There’s been a noticeable shift from mass-produced ceramics to unique, handmade wares in recent years. You can feel good about supporting homegrown small businesses and learn a few skills to get you started on your own creative journey. Ceramics classes invite you to step into a local pottery studio and learn how to transform lumps of clay into boutique-worthy works of art.

There are loads of different pottery classes to choose from River North to West Loop and beyond. Professional ceramicists teach our workshops and they will you from newbie to confident clay maker in just a few hours.

Whether you want to dive into wheel throwing at a pottery studio, hand-build planter pots, or create small figures for fun, there’s a Chicago ceramics class for you. To get you inspired, we’ve put together a list of some of our favorite pottery project ideas.

Ceramic Pots and Planters for your indoor jungle

Whether you become a new plant parent during the pandemic or you’ve always been into having a green space, indoor plants are one of the best ways to boost your mood and brighten up your house or apartment. Leaving your plants in the plastic containers they came in isn’t great for creating a vibe. Instead, do your plant babies justice and learn to make decorative pots at a local pottery class. Whether you’re growing an indoor jungle or babying a single monstera, handmade planters will give your space an Insta-worthy look.

Having plants not only purifies the air, but it can boost productivity, improve concentration and ease anxiety. This makes pottery workshops ideal team building activities. Your colleagues will appreciate being able to connect in an environment outside of work. Plus, everyone will leave with their own custom planter. Take your wellness activity to the next level by gifting everyone with an indoor plant to put in their new pot!

Farmhouse kitchen supplies

Ceramic kitchen tools are staples for a reason - they’ve been around for centuries and are the perfect way to bring a touch of rustic charm into your home. Whether you’re an enthusiastic home chef or you’re looking for inspiration to spend more time in the kitchen, handmade ceramic utensils and accessories are guaranteed to enhance your experience.

From colorful mixing bowls to wooden spoon rests, the possibilities are endless in beginner pottery classes. Best of all, you don’t have to be a perfectionist. Anything homemade has the charm of imperfection.

Handmade mugs for your coffee fix

Your favorite brew will taste better out of a handmade ceramic cup, especially if it’s DIY. Savor your coffee - or tea - of choice served in a beautiful mug made in your beginner pottery class. It makes a great conversation piece if you’re having an informal Zoom meeting for work.

A mug making pottery class is an ideal gift for friends, family, and colleagues. Your lucky recipient will love the chance to go behind the scenes of a local pottery studio and learn how to make a ceramics project. 

Heath inspired dinnerware

If you’ve scoured the internet for vintage Heath ceramics, you know how simplicity stands the test of time. If you’ve always wanted to take that inspiration and make your own pottery, a local ceramics class will let you explore a new hobby.

Throwing clay can be incredibly therapeutic and a great way to unwind on a weeknight or the weekend. Just put on some clothes you can get messy in and get ready to work out your arm muscles while focusing on meditative motions. You’ll love 

Gold standard Kintsugi

All that glitters is gold when it comes to Kintsugi, the Japanese art of repairing ceramics with gold. Ceramics on their own are stunning but bringing attention to a repair job makes a piece even more special.

The ancient art of restoring ceramics with gold dust-infused lacquer is founded on the philosophy of celebrating imperfection and honoring inner beauty. If you’re searching for bachelorette party ideas in Chicago that sparkle, a Kintsugi workshop will delight the bride-to-be. 

You’ll love mastering this centuries-old Japanese technique alongside your besties. You’ll even find online pottery classes perfect if your guest list includes interstate babes. Coordinating a date and sending out at-home pottery kits is another great option for bachelorettes, birthday parties, team building days, and any other occasion with virtual attendees.

Wearable ceramic art 

Handmade ceramics are a wonderful way to decorate your home, but did you know you can also create your own wearable art in the pottery studio? From painted ceramic pendants to clay earrings, you’ll love expressing your creativity in the clay studio. 

Let your imagination loose with personalized designs. You’ll love the sense of satisfaction every time you put on your handmade jewelry. Who knows, you could love your newfound hobby so much that you set up your own Etsy store or become a maker at your local craft market.

Pottery and Pinot night

If you’re looking for fun things to do on a rainy day in Chicago, a clay and sip night could be just what you need to banish the blues. You’ll love the chance to unleash your creative streak with a glass of your favorite Pinot Noir or local beer in hand. Invite your friends so you can share a new experience and try something new beyond grabbing drinks.  

Whether you’re looking for fun birthday party ideas, looking for new ways to practice mindfulness, or you simply want to explore a new hobby, pottery classes in Chicago are incredibly rewarding ways to spend your precious free time. Here are more ways pottery classes in Chicago can boost your wellbeing.