I’ve Heard Mixed Things About The Clay Hole — What’s the Truth?
If you’ve been in the Utah pottery scene for more than five minutes, you’ve probably heard a mix of opinions about The Clay Hole. Some glowing. Some skeptical. Some that sound… well, kind of wild.
So let’s talk about it. Openly. Honestly. With zero fluff.
Rumor: “It’s just a social media stunt.”
Yeah, Dan Pearce has a big following. But The Clay Hole wasn’t built for views — it was built for potters. Every wheel, every glaze, every tool in this 10,000 sq. ft. studio exists because real clay lovers wanted them. Members come here to work, to create, to grow. Not to film TikToks (though that’s cool too).
Rumor: “It’s all beginners.”
False. Around 70% of our members have solid clay experience. Some are ex-instructors. Some sell their work professionally. Some just love the vibe of serious tools with zero pretension. We have beginners, yes — but also potters who’ve been throwing for decades.
Rumor: “The people are cliquey.”
We hear this one a lot… from people who haven’t actually been here. Truth? Most folks walk in knowing no one. Within a few sessions, they’re swapping glaze tricks and sharing snacks. If anything, we have too many people saying hi. You don’t need to be an extrovert — just be yourself.
Rumor: “It’s too expensive.”
It depends on what you're comparing it to. We’re priced similarly to other Utah studios — but include far more: over 500 glazes, slab rollers, extruders, cold drinks, bonus days, non-clay classes, lounge areas, and late-night access. No contracts. No weird fees. No nickel-and-diming.
Rumor: “They don’t take pottery seriously.”
Not true. We just don’t take ourselves too seriously. You’ll find serious potters here — folks who love clay deeply. But you’ll also hear music playing, laughter ringing out, and the occasional weird sculpture made just for fun. Because joy fuels art. And that’s serious business.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, The Clay Hole is not for everyone. But if you’re looking for a place that’s honest, welcoming, equipped, and full of people who genuinely love clay — this might be exactly what you’ve been searching for. Don’t let whispers make the decision for you. Come see for yourself.
Join The Clay Hole NowWant to save on your first month?
- MYNEWSTUDIO – Get $100 off your first month if you’re switching from another pottery studio. Just bring some proof when you arrive.
- NEWMEMBER30 – Not coming from another studio? You can still get 30% off your first month as a new member.
These offers are only good for first-time members. Use one. Show up. And start falling in love with clay again — for way less than you expected.
FAQs
Yes! Use the code NEWMEMBER30 at checkout for 30% off your first month.
Absolutely. We’re fully stocked with professional tools, advanced glazes, and space to push your work further.
Anything reasonable — a membership card, payment record, studio email, or even a social post showing where you were. We’re chill about it.
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Written by Dan Pearce, ceramic artist, author, and founder of The Clay Hole—a 10,000 sq. ft. community pottery studio in Draper, Utah. With nearly 3 million followers across platforms, Dan is known for his expressive pottery, inclusive studio culture, and commitment to creative connection.