Why Is It So Hard to Make Adult Friends? (And How Pottery Can Help)
Making friends as a kid was easy. You just showed up—at school, on the playground, at band or basketball—and there they were. As an adult? It’s a lot lonelier. Life is busy. People are guarded. And social circles shrink fast if you don’t have a built-in group.
At The Clay Hole in Draper, we hear this all the time: “I just want real friends. People to talk to. People I see regularly.” That’s exactly why we offer weekly membership-based pottery classes—because true connection only happens with time and repetition.
Why Adults Struggle to Make Friends
According to a recent study by the Survey Center on American Life, more than half of adults in the U.S. report having fewer close friends than they did just ten years ago. In Utah, where social circles often revolve around religion or parent groups, it can be even harder to find your people if you don’t fit that mold.
- Work and home life leave little time for new friendships
- One-time events rarely lead to lasting bonds
- Adult friendships require consistency—and safe places to grow
Why Pottery Is the Perfect Way to Connect
There’s something disarming about clay. It’s messy, creative, and hands-on—which means no one is pretending to be perfect. When you show up week after week to create alongside the same group of people, friendships start to form naturally.
- No small talk pressure—you’re focused on making, not impressing
- Classes are consistent, which means you actually get to know people
- You’ll see familiar faces every week and form bonds without even trying
What to Expect at The Clay Hole
- Weekly adult pottery classes—membership-based, not one-time events
- Friday night is singles-only, but all nights are welcoming and inclusive
- A 10,000 sq. ft. studio with sofas, snacks, drinks, and a creative buzz
- Access to 500+ glazes, 100+ underglazes, and thousands of tools
- Led by four instructors each class, including Dan Pearce, who’s there every week
If you’ve been feeling disconnected, come join us. You don’t have to explain yourself. Just come as you are and start building something real—with clay and with people.
See Membership Options & PricesFAQs for Adults Craving Community
FAQs
Is this just a class, or is it social too?
It’s both. You’ll be creating with others and chatting along the way. Over time, those connections become friendships.
I don’t know anyone. Can I come alone?
Yes—most people do. You’ll be greeted warmly, and it won’t take long to feel like part of something.
Is clay included?
No. Clay and firings are sold separately depending on how much you use. Tools and instruction are included.