Pottery Classes in Novato | Marin Pottery

At Marin Pottery in Novato, CA, we offer engaging adult pottery and ceramics classes throughout the year for beginners and intermediate students. Our sessions combine hands-on instruction in wheel throwing, handbuilding, glazing, and surface design with access to open studio time so you can continue practicing your skills.

Our pottery classes are taught by potters who are passionate about clay! We create an inviting and inclusive environment, comfortable for folks to explore - even if you’ve never worked with clay before.

While registered in classes, students get access to our drop in times to come in as much as they like, 12 lbs of clay, firing, and glazing. Additional clay is available for purchase. Once a class has been completed, you can apply for our membership and get even more access to creating.

 
 

Adult Pottery and Ceramics Classes

Beginner Pottery Classes

Our beginner pottery classes are perfect if you’re new to ceramics or want a refresher on the fundamentals.

You’ll learn:

  • Basic wheel throwing techniques

  • Introductory handbuilding

  • Clay preparation and trimming

  • Glazing basics and surface design

  • Studio safety and best practices

No prior experience is required. These classes provide a strong foundation and prepare students to continue with intermediate classes or open studio access.

Upcoming Sessions:

6 week Course - Tuesday 6:30p-8:30p, 2/17-2/24

6 Week Course - Wednesday 9:30a-11:30a 2/17-2/24

Register 6wk Tuesday Evening Intro
Register 6wk Wednesday Morning Intro

Wheel Throwing Classes

Learn all about the wheel. Get ready to be messy and dive into clay. Our wheel throwing class is designed for beginners and first time potters, folks wanting wheel throwing refreshers, and people looking to get back on the wheel.

We’ll learn and/or review:

  • Centering

  • Throwing a cylinder

  • Trimming

  • Glazing basics and surface design

  • Studio safety and best practices

Current Session:

1/7-2/9 (no class 1/19) - Full

Upcoming Session:

5 week Course | Monday Evening 6:30p-8:30p | 2/23-3/23

6 Week Course | Wednesday Evening 6:30p-8:30p | 2/18-3/18

Register Monday Wheel
Register Wednesday Wheel

Beginner/ Intermediate Ceramics Classes

Designed for students with prior pottery experience, these classes focus on skill development, refinement, and personal style. Students are welcome to explore the pottery wheel or hand building techniques.

Topics may include:

  • Intermediate wheel throwing forms

  • Complex handbuilding techniques

  • Glaze chemistry and surface exploration

  • Form, function, and design development

Students are encouraged to work independently while receiving individualized instruction from experienced ceramic artists.

Upcoming Session:

6 Week Course | Thursday Morning 10a-12p | 2/19-3/19

Register Beg/Int. Thursday
 

What You’ll Learn in Our Pottery Classes

Across all class levels, students gain experience with:

  • Wheel throwing and trimming

  • Handbuilding techniques

  • Glazing and surface decoration

  • Kiln firing processes

  • Studio workflow and materials

Our goal is to help students develop both technical skills and creative confidence.

Class Schedule & Registration

Classes are offered in multi-week sessions throughout the year. Schedules vary by season and instructor.

  • Classes meet weekly

  • Class sizes are kept small for personalized instruction

  • Clay, glazes, firing, studio tools, and open studio time are included with enrollment

Who Our Classes Are For

Our pottery classes are ideal for:

  • Complete beginners

  • Returning students

  • Artists exploring ceramics

  • Adults seeking a creative outlet

  • Community members in Novato and Marin County

If you’re unsure which class is right for you, we’re happy to help.

Interested in Workshops or Studio Access?

Looking for a shorter commitment? Explore our workshops

Already experienced and want independent time? Learn about memberships

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need prior experience?
No. Beginner classes are designed for students with no prior pottery experience.

What should I bring to class?
Just yourself and clothes you don’t mind getting dirty. If you have experience and your own tools, you are welcome to bring them.

Are materials included?
Yes, we provide clay, glazing, firing, and access to class tools while you are registered in a class. 

Where is Marin Pottery located?
We are located in Novato, California, serving Marin County and the Bay Area.

Ready to Get Started?

Join our community ceramics studio and start working with clay.

(link will take you to our registration platform, shared with Studio 4 Art)

Register for a Class