Nervous about whether you'll fit in at The Clay Hole? This page addresses outsider syndrome, quiet fears, and what kind of people actually thrive inside Utah’s most inclusive pottery studio.

Will I Fit In at The Clay Hole?

Let’s be honest — most potters don’t talk about this part. But we will:

You’re thinking about joining. You’re intrigued. Maybe even excited. But underneath all of it is the quiet, squirming question:

“What if I just… don’t fit in?”

You’re not the only one who’s wondered that.

What People Think We’re Like

Some imagine a pottery clique — a bunch of artists with matching aprons, inside jokes, and smug critiques. Others picture a chaotic free-for-all where no one knows what they’re doing.

We’re neither of those things. And we’re definitely not the kind of studio that expects you to prove yourself before being welcomed.

What We’re Actually Like

  • We have members in their 20s. And their 70s.
  • We have potters who throw ten pieces a night. And ones who do one.
  • We have autistic artists, queer artists, parents, perfectionists, rebels, and beginners.
  • We have people who left other studios because they never felt seen.

What they all have in common? They found their place here.

But What If I’m Really Socially Awkward?

That’s okay. We have plenty of members who don’t say a word all night. We also have talkers. And listeners. And people who stim. And people who laugh weird. You don’t have to become someone else to belong here.

You just have to show up and be you.

“I spent a year watching from the sidelines because I didn’t think I’d fit in. I was wrong. This place feels like family — but without the pressure.” — Jodi M.
“It’s the first studio I’ve ever been in where nobody makes me feel like I’m ‘too much.’” — Ren L.

Conclusion

If you’ve ever felt like an outsider, a misfit, or like you needed to hide parts of yourself just to do what you love — we built this studio for you. You don’t have to ask, “Will I fit in?” You already do.

Try the Studio That Was Built for You

First-time member? Let us help you feel welcome — in every way:

  • MYNEWSTUDIO – Take $100 off if you’re moving from a different studio. Just bring proof.
  • NEWMEMBER30 – New to pottery studios entirely? You get 30% off. No proof required.

These are for first-time members only. Because belonging should never feel expensive.

FAQs

I’ve never been to a studio. Will I look dumb?
Not here. Everyone’s on their own path. We welcome beginners with just as much respect as pros.
Can I just come look around before I commit?
Yep. You can tour anytime we’re open. Just ask for a quick walkthrough — no pressure, no sales pitch.
Is this studio actually inclusive — or just performative?
It’s real. Our members are neurodivergent, LGBTQ+, ex-Mormon, introverted, and everything in between. And they stay — because we mean it.
See all FAQs

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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.