sellhave Frequently Asked Questions

How does it work?

It’s easy, Honest!  Pottery painting is fun! We have a wide range of pottery for you to choose from together with brushes and underglaze paint for you to decorate and personalise your very own masterpiece. We then glaze and fire your item in our offsite kiln, ready for you to collect after 1 week.  You don’t need to bring anything, although some customers bring pictures or sketches of what they’d like to create on the day.

How much does it cost?

The cost depends on the item you choose to paint with prices starting at £15.00. Our prices are all inclusive so there are no studio fees or glazing fees to add.  We like to keep it simple!

How long does it take?

It really depends on what you choose to paint and the age of the painter.  On average about one hour, but it can take longer. Younger children tend to take less time than older ones.

Is my child too young?

No! It’s great for developing their fine motor skills and we regularly have babies in the studio having a little paint.  We have 6 high chairs for your use in the studio.

When will my item be ready?

It takes 7 days to glaze and fire your pots, during busy periods or for commission work, this is normally extended to 10 days.  If you can’t get back to the studio we can post out your pottery for a small charge, the cost is dependent on the size and weight of the parcel as per Royal Mails specifications.

What activities can I do and take away on the day?

Well I’m glad you asked!  We have our very popular foam clay that you can mould onto our pottery which children and adults LOVE to do!  The only limitation really is that it’s not food safe so isn’t to be used on plates, mugs etc.  We also offer teddy bear stuffing!

Do you cater for large groups?

Yes we do!  We can seat 48 people at any one time.  Please book for a group so we can rearrange the tables to suit your requirements.

Help!!!! I’m not artistic!

Don’t worry you don’t need to be! We have lots of samples inside the studio to help inspire you and the Potsy Pamsy team are always buzzing round your tables and can give you as much or as little guidance that you’d like.   You can even hop onto our wifi and look at our page and Pinterest board.

What time do you open?

We are open 7 days a week.  Our opening hours are below

Monday 9am – 5.30pm

Tuesday 9am – 5.30pm

Wednesday 9am – 5.30pm

Thursday 9am – 5.30pm

Friday 9am – 5.30pm

Saturday 9am – 5.30pm

Sunday 10.15 – 4.45pm

We are closed Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Years day.

The last entry time for painting is one hour before closing.

What if I don’t finish my pot in time?

We are unable to store your pottery whilst waiting for you to return, you’re welcome to take it home and return within a month to compete it at no further cost.

Can I paint my pot at home?

Yes, we can provide you with some underglazes and brushes to paint your pot at home.

Do you take card payments?

Yes we do!

Do I need to book?

Booking is required during weekends and school holidays, as we can get very busy.  We will accept walk in collections or painters, but can’t guarantee your table unless you have booked.

At what age can I get a good handprint?

We have our methods and our youngest baby was the beautiful Mabel at just 4 and a half days old!  For the best possible handprint for babies under 6 months we strongly recommend you book an appointment so our hand print masters can give you a helping hand…. pun entirely intended.  Just to add, we will ALWAYS help get the best hand and footprint for you and there’s no charge for this, it’s all part of the service!  However please bare in mind at peak periods, if you haven’t booked, there may be a small wait until we can assist you.

Are the paints safe and washable?

Yes! I somehow get plastered every day, all the paints are washable and we use non-toxic paints and glaze. We also provide aprons.

Are your items safe to use and can i put them in the dishwasher or microwave?

Our pots are all dipped in a food safe glaze, so you can enjoy you cup of tea in your mug that’s been made with love!  My theory is that our mugs make your cuppa taste even better!!!   You must not put your pottery in the microwave as it isn’t microwave safe.  We don’t recommend using your item in a dishwasher.

Do you sell gift vouchers?

Yes we do! To whatever value you choose.

My Pottery is for a gift can you help with the writing?

No problem! for a very small charge we can add a personal message and add decoration.

Is your studio wheelchair friendly?

Yes, it is, we’re on the ground floor of the garden centre and open plan seating area.  There are also disabled toilets across from the studio.

Is there parking nearby?

Yes, there’s free car parking at the garden centre for 600 cars.

Do you sell drinks and food?

We don’t sell hot and cold drinks in the studio, however, there is a separate onsite restaurant opposite called The Den, which is hugely popular if you fancy a bite to eat during your activity with us at the studio. We respectfully ask that you don’t bring your own food to eat at the studio.

What happens if it goes wrong in the kiln?

This is just as upsetting for me as it is for you!  It doesn’t happen often and when it does it’s usually the last firing before Christmas, Father’s Day or Mother’s Day! These things can’t be helped so we will always offer a full refund for the item affected or the option to make another.

Do you do school visits?

Yes we do!  We have also had many schools visit us at the studio.  We will discuss what topics you are covering at the time if booking and make the painting activity relevant.Do you come out to our Community Group?   Yes we do! Call us at the studio on 01922 411791 to discuss your requirements.

Do you have a separate party room?

Yes we do!

Can I leave my kids with you?

No.  Unless it’s a specified workshop or party whereby the birthday child’s parents are staying, then you must accompany your child in the studio.