How It Works
1. How long does it take to finish a project?
We suggest that you allow yourself at least an hour to paint your piece. Some people take longer, some finish more quickly. There is no studio fee, and we encourage all painters to be happy with their piece, so take as long as you need.
2. What if I don’t finish my piece today?
We do have a return fee if a piece is not finished in one sitting, and pieces must be paid for on the day they are started, and cannot be stored at the studio, so must be taken home and brought back when you are ready to finish the piece.
3. When can I have my piece back?
In order to allow the painted pieces to dry completely, be dipped in a separate clear glaze, and be fired, we guarantee your piece will be finished and ready to be picked up one week from the day you paint it.
4. Can I get my piece back sooner than one week?
For the safety of your piece, and the other pieces in the kiln, it is important that all pieces be completely dried after painting, and after having the clear glaze applied. We cannot speed up that process and guarantee your piece will not crack, so we need the entire week to get your piece ready for you.
5. I don’t live in Madison. Can I have my piece shipped?
We offer shipping. All pieces are sent through the United States Post Office, and are shipped insured. We can give you our shipping prices before you begin painting. Please allow one extra week to get your piece back due to the shipping process.
6. Do you have classes?
We do not offer classes, because we find most people want to express themselves in their own way. However, we like to say there are no secrets in the pottery studio, and our friendly staff will answer any questions, explain any process for the finished pieces you see on display, and guide each customer with any project if asked.
7. How old does my child have to be to paint?
We encourage children of all ages to paint at our studio. For the safety of all of our customers, children under the age of 10 must be accompanied by an adult. Our staff can explain how to get the best results with even the youngest of painters. We have many ideas for finger prints, foot prints and hand prints for the youngest members of your family as well.
8. Do I need a reservation?
We welcome all walk ins. We do suggest reservations for groups of 6 or more, with a deposit to hold the table. This deposit will be subtracted from your total at the end of your session, and is non-refundable if you are a no show. During the busiest times of the year (Christmas and Spring Break) there may be a short wait for an available table.
9. Do you allow birthday parties?
We enjoy birthday parties at the pottery studio! There is a contract, deposit, and reservation required, so please call the store to make arrangements in advance. You are not limited to birthday parties! Lots of group events are encouraged at All Ways Pottery.
10. How much extra does it cost to….?
Everything (except IN state tax) is included in the price marked on the bisque when you pick it out. There are no extra fees for help from the staff, using the paint, ideas, or studio time.
11. What if I’m not an artist?
We have paints that require no artistic ability, are easy to use and come out beautifully! And we encourage all painters to express themselves, and be amazed at the artist they really are!
12. Do I need to clean up my mess?
Our staff cleans up the mess. You don’t have to wash your brushes, clear your table, or put paints away. We do all of that for you. Just come in, paint, relax and enjoy!
13. Are the pieces microwave safe?
We do not recommend microwaving finished pieces, but have many customers who do, and have had no problems.
14. Will you paint my piece for me?
We will take special orders. There is an extra fee for staff time, and pieces will take a little longer than one week to get back. We encourage you to paint your own piece and make it your own, but we understand not everyone has time to do that. Please speak with a staff member if you are interested in commissioning a piece for specific details.
15. Can I paint the piece at home?
Yes! We have a “Pottery to Go” program! There is a deposit for paints and supplies, fully refundable if everything is returned within three months. Your piece will be ready one week from the day you return it. We do not allow pieces to be returned for refund or exchange once they have left the studio, and cannot fire anything with paints not supplied by our studio.
16. I see a piece today, but don’t have time to paint it. What can I do?
We suggest that you purchase the piece, and return when you have time to paint it. We cannot hold pieces, and our inventory changes constantly, so we cannot guarantee a piece will always be available. Once a piece is purchased and leaves the studio, it cannot be returned for a refund or exchange, but you can return to paint it, at no additional fee, when you are ready to paint.
17. I cannot come back next week; will my piece still be here when I come to get it?
We hold finished pieces for 3 months. If you know you cannot be back within three months, tell the staff member on check out, and we will hold it longer. Pieces left for longer than 3 months are donated to a charity, or sold.
18. I have a piece I bought years ago, or I have my own clay, can I paint it and fire it in your kilm?
No, we cannot fire anything not purchased in our studio.
