What If I’m Not Good Enough to Join The Clay Hole?

You scroll through our videos. You see all the beautiful work. And maybe you’ve thought it—“I could never do that.” Or maybe: “They’re real artists. I’m just… trying.”

We hear it every day. Potters walk in saying they’re not good enough to be here. Some haven’t touched clay in twenty years. Others are still haunted by a failed first attempt at a wheel. And some? Some are actually great—but still convinced they’re faking it. (Here’s why imposter syndrome is so common.)

If that’s you, here’s the truth: You don’t need to be good enough. You just need to want to come.

Imposter Syndrome Loves Potters

We work with clay. It cracks. It collapses. It teaches patience through failure. That makes pottery beautiful—but also emotionally risky. So of course imposter syndrome creeps in.

But at The Clay Hole, we don’t measure your worth by your “level.” We measure it by your willingness to get messy, try things, and keep showing up. And if you’re scared? We’ll meet you in that fear and walk you through it.

This Studio Was Built for You

• We have people who’ve never touched clay working next to potters with decades of experience.
• Our instructors don’t judge—they empower.
• You don’t need to be “ready.” You just need to be curious.

The Clay Hole is where you come to grow, not where you arrive fully formed. If you feel like an imposter, you're actually in the right place. This space is built for potters who are still learning, still exploring, and still finding their voice.

You’re Already Good Enough

Nobody walks in here with it all figured out. Not even me. And honestly? That’s the best part. If you’re feeling that tug to come—trust it. You belong here, even if your brain hasn’t caught up to that truth yet.

So take a deep breath. Let go of the pressure to be perfect. You’re already good enough to join The Clay Hole.

What Our Members Say

“I walked in thinking I didn’t belong. Two weeks later I was staying late just to keep making. Best decision I’ve made in years.”
- Jamie R.

“I was scared to even sign up. But this place made me feel safe to try, fail, and fall in love with clay again.”
- Lila T.

FAQs

Do I have to pass a skill test to join?
Nope. We welcome every potter, at every level.

What if I’ve never used a wheel?
Great! We offer support and options for hand-building, molds, and sculpting too.

See all FAQs

Find Us on Social Media

Follow @theclayhole on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook for behind-the-scenes, pottery tips, and member stories that will make you feel right at home.

Find Us in Draper, Utah

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.