What to Wear to Pottery Class: Tips for a Great Ceramics Experience

Madison Mohn • Nov 02, 2023

What to Wear to Pottery Class

Attending a pottery class can be exciting, but deciding on what to wear can be a bit daunting! Don't fret, though, because we have just the guide you need to help you dress in style and comfort for your next pottery session!

Clothing for Your Ceramics Class

Up Top

The top you wear to pottery class should be loose-fitting and comfortable. It should allow for a range of movement, as you will have to maneuver around your pottery wheel or clay project. A tight top can restrict your motion and make you feel uncomfortable. Moreover, a loose top can prevent clay from sticking to your clothes. We recommend wearing a long-sleeve cotton t-shirt or a button-up shirt made of non-stretchable fabric.

On The Botton

When it comes to bottom wear, comfort and flexibility are the key factors to consider. Tight jeans can make it challenging to bend down and maneuver around your pottery station. You'll want to wear bottoms that fit well around your waist but give you enough room to move your legs freely. We recommend wearing loose-fitting pants made of cotton or other natural materials. Try to avoid synthetic fabrics such as polyester or nylon, as these can cause static cling and make clay stick to your clothes.

For the Feet

When selecting footwear for a pottery class, try to prioritize a closed-toe shoe. You will be working with potentially heavy and fragile objects that can break easily, and wearing closed-toe shoes will protect your feet from any falling pottery pieces. Additionally, pottery can be slippery, and wearing shoes that are skid-resistant can help you move around the studio with ease.

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Changing Temps

Layer Up: Pottery classes can be held in a variety of environments, ranging from chilly to warm. Dress in layers so that you can adjust your clothing as needed. This will ensure that you are comfortable throughout the class. When layering, opt for clothes that are easy to take off, such as a light jacket or sweatshirt.


Does clay come out of clothes?

No need to worry the next time you accidentally get clay on your clothes during your pottery class. Clay stains can definitely come out of clothes with a little patience and some pre-treatment. The key is to wait for the clay to dry completely before attempting to remove it from the garment. Once it's dry, mix a soaking solution of laundry detergent and water and apply it to the stained area. Let it sit for a few minutes before washing your clothes as usual. With these simple steps, your clothes will be clay free in no time.

Pottery Throwing and Hair, Jewelry, Nails, and Accessories

Keep Your Hair Out of Your Way

Whether you have long locks or short hair, it's important to keep it out of your face and off the pottery wheel. Not only does this help you stay focused on your work, but it also prevents any hair from accidentally getting mixed up in the clay. So, don't forget to tie it up, tuck it away, or put on a hat before jumping into your next pottery session!

Minimize Your Jewelry

Jewelry and pottery don't mix well. They can get caught in clay and machines, causing potential injury to you or damage to the equipment. Avoid wearing any jewelry, including rings, bracelets, and long necklaces to your pottery class.

Can you do pottery with long nails?

One common question that people often ask is whether you can do pottery with long nails. The answer to this question is not a simple yes or no. Having long nails can make shaping and smoothing the clay a little more challenging, but it is still possible to work on pottery projects with long nails. The key is to handle the clay gently and use tools that can help you achieve the desired shape and texture.

A Potter’s Glasses

Pottery classes can be messy, and when you're wearing glasses, it can be tough to keep them clean. No one wants to end up with spots of clay on their lenses, but fortunately, there's a simple solution: bring a cheaper or older pair of glasses to wear during class. It might not be the most glamorous option, but it's certainly practical.

How Else Can I Prep for Pottery Class?

Pottery class can be an exciting and creative experience, but it's natural to have a few nerves before stepping into the studio. So, how can you prep for pottery class beyond packing a change of clothes and an open mind? While you don't need to be a master potter before you arrive, taking some time to familiarize yourself with basic techniques can help ease any anxiety. Look up videos online of throwing, shaping, and sculpting clay to get a sense of what you'll be doing. 


Above all, remember that pottery class is a chance to have fun, get creative, and possibly even make a few new friends along the way. So, leave your worries about the mess behind and let your imagination run wild!

Aprons for the Wheel

You're standing at the pottery wheel, creating a beautiful new piece that you're proud of. But, as you look down, you notice some unwanted clay stains on your clothes. Don't let this happen to you! Protect your outfits with an apron or smock before you begin. Not only will this prevent any mess from ruining your clothes, but it will also make cleanup a breeze. Best of all, we have plenty of aprons available to ensure you look as good as your pottery creations.

Post-Pottery Clothes

While it's easy to forget about the clay residue that stubbornly clings to your clothes, it can transfer to your car seats and upholstery.  An easy solution to prevent this transfer of mess is to wipe your hands often and pack an outfit change. It's a simple trick that will save you the hassle of cleaning up your car or home!

Pottery Classes for Everyone

Attending pottery classes can be a fun and rewarding experience, but dressing appropriately can make the difference between a comfortable and an uncomfortable class. By choosing comfortable clothing, layering up, covering up, wearing closed-toe shoes, and avoiding jewelry, you can protect your clothes and stay comfortable while indulging in your creative side. With these tips, you're sure to have a great time in your pottery class! We have classes for every level of potter as well, check out our classes here!

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