Most pottery studios make you follow a rigid class structure. At The Clay Hole in Utah, we offer something better: freedom to play, explore, and experiment on your terms — with open studio time, thousands of tools, and no creative pressure.

Not All Studios Let You Just… Play. We Do.

Ever been in a class where you’re dying to explore an idea — but can’t, because the lesson plan says it’s “pinch pot day”? Yeah, we’ve been there. And we think pottery deserves more freedom than that.

At The Clay Hole, we flipped the script. Here, you don’t have to wait for permission to start something weird, whimsical, or wildly outside the curriculum. We believe creative breakthroughs happen when people are trusted to follow their own rhythm.

This Isn’t Just About “Open Studio.” It’s About Philosophy.

Of course we offer open studio time (a ton of it). But more than that — we built a place that actually encourages you to play. Not just to finish pieces, but to mess around. Fail. Test something absurd. Make a glorious mess. Then try again.

  • No required class sequences.
  • No teacher breathing over your shoulder.
  • No one judging your “technique” while you experiment.

We offer instruction, sure. But it’s there when you want it — not forced on you when you don’t.

Play Isn’t Just for Beginners. It’s for Artists.

Many potters leave other studios because they’re tired of doing the same demo project for the hundredth time. They want to play again. They want to invent. At The Clay Hole, play is respected as part of the process. And we give you the tools to make it real:

  • Over 500 commercial glazes and 8 types of clay
  • Giant slab rollers, extruders, and dozens of molds
  • Handbuilding, sculpting, and wheel options
  • Bonus pottery days and flexible hours (6:30–10:00 PM on weekdays)

You don’t need to be productive to be valid. You don’t need to be perfect to be proud. Just come play.

Conclusion

You’re allowed to be curious. You’re allowed to follow your weird ideas. You’re allowed to make art without structure telling you when and how. If that’s what you’ve been craving, The Clay Hole might feel like the most refreshing studio you’ve ever walked into.

Come Play at The Clay Hole

Want to play without breaking the bank?

  • MYNEWSTUDIO – Switching studios? Use this code to get $100 off your first month. Just bring a little proof.
  • NEWMEMBER30 – New to studio life entirely? Use this for 30% off your first month.

These are first-timer only offers. And they’re designed to make that first step way easier.

FAQs

Do I have to take a class before using the studio?
Not at all. Classes are optional. Most of our members use the studio freely with zero pressure.
What if I want help but don’t want a full class?
No problem. Instructors are available most nights, and we’re happy to give quick advice or demos on request.
Is it okay if I just want to explore clay without finishing anything?
100%. Exploration is part of the process. No productivity rules here.
See all FAQs

Find Us on Social Media

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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.