The Ceramics Studio Etc
Fused Glass Mushrooms!
Fused Glass The Ceramic Studio Etc4132 E Grand River Ave, Howell, MI
Looking for a fun and creative way to kick off spring break? Join us for this whimsical Fused Glass Mushroom Workshop! Whether you display it on a stand or hang it in a window, this vibrant piece will bring a touch of magic to your space. In this class, you'll learn the basics of working with fused glass, including how to cut out your mushroom cap and base and decorate them with small glass pieces for a unique design. Since the two pieces are not attached prior to firing, we’ll discuss how to build a free-form piece. This is the perfect stay-cation activity for those not traveling during spring break! Come explore the magic of glass fusing and create a one-of-a-kind mushroom to enjoy for years to come.
Stoneware Night!
Adult Stoneware The Ceramic Studio Etc4132 E Grand River Ave, Howell, MI
Join us at The Ceramic Studio Etc for an exciting evening glazing Stoneware! We’ll offer a variety of glazing techniques so you can combine our glazes in beautiful patterns or let them flow together organically. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced ceramic artist, this workshop promises to be a valuable and inspiring experience. We look forward to seeing you at the workshop and helping you unleash your creativity with stoneware glazing!
Difficulty: EasyStoneware Clay Bird Houses, clay hand building workshop
Adult The Ceramic Studio Etc4132 E Grand River Ave, Howell, MI
Come build this whimsical bird house with us! The finished piece is about 10" tall. This project will use Stoneware clay and glaze. Stoneware is great for pieces that need to withstand weather, so this piece will be able to stay outside year round.
Difficulty: EasyIce Flowers
Fused Glass The Ceramic Studio Etc4132 E Grand River Ave, Howell, MI
Join us for a fun and creative fused glass workshop where you'll make stunning Ice Flowers that sparkle like frost on a winter morning! Using a 5.5x11" glass base, you'll learn to cut, layer, and design delicate clear glass flowers that catch the light beautifully. This workshop is perfect for all skill levels and offers exciting customization options—you can choose to upgrade to a larger base or have your piece slumped into a graceful curved dish. A $10 ticket reserves your seat, and the balance of $37 for materials will be paid at the class. Don’t miss this chance to craft a dazzling piece of art while having a great time—reserve your spot today!
Clay Bunny Sculpture!
Adult Children The Ceramic Studio Etc4132 E Grand River Ave, Howell, MI
Hop into spring with our whimsical Clay Bunny Sculpture class! All ages are invited to join in the fun of creating an adorable bunny with floppy ears. This delightful project is a perfect way to get into the spring spirit and create a handmade decoration for your home just in time for Easter.
Our talented instructor will guide you step-by-step, making the process easy and enjoyable—even if you've never worked with clay before! Whether you're looking to add a unique touch to your holiday décor or simply want a fun, creative evening, this class is perfect for all skill levels.
Story Time at the Studio: Paint a bunny!
Children The Ceramic Studio Etc4132 E Grand River Ave, Howell, MI
Join us for Story Time at the studio! We love having our youngest artists in to enjoy stories and be inspired to paint something fun! We’ll read 2 stories, you'll pick one of our assortment of little bunny figures to paint and have a snack! Just $15. We expect this experience to take about 1 hour. Projects will require firing and will be ready for pick up within 1 week. This experience is designed for children age 2 1/2-ish and up, younger siblings and strollers welcome. You only need to purchase a ticket for participating children, not for adults or younger non-participating siblings. Older siblings who might like to pick and paint from our shelves are also welcome, just pay for their pieces when you come. Limited to 18 story time participants, come join us for a morning full of creative fun!
Difficulty: Very EasyKids Night Out: Spring Planters!
Children The Ceramic Studio Etc4132 E Grand River Ave, Howell, MI
Drop the kids off at this fun night at the studio! We'll entertain them with art, food and fun while you enjoy a couple hours to yourself! This month we'll be glazing a spring planter. Kids will get to choose from our selection of planters in the studio. Ticket price pays for the dinner and event, you'll pay for the planter they choose to paint the evening of the event, planter prices range from $20-$40. Space is limited, reserve a spot today!
Difficulty: EasyStoneware Mugs and Planters: Handbuilding class
Adult Clay The Ceramic Studio Etc4132 E Grand River Ave, Howell, MI
Looking for a fun, hands-on way to celebrate the arrival of spring? Join us for a creative clay adventure where you’ll get to design and build your very own mug or planter from scratch! Whether you’ve always wanted to try your hand at pottery or you’re already a pro, this class is perfect for all skill levels.
You'll start by learning simple yet effective handbuilding techniques to shape your piece—whether you envision a cozy mug for your morning coffee or a charming planter to brighten up your space. Then, let your imagination flow as you add personal touches, from handles and textures to decorative elements. It’s all about making something uniquely yours!
So, come get messy, unwind, and craft something special this spring! Bring a friend, and let's get creative together!
Sun Chimes; a fused glass workshop
Fused Glass The Ceramic Studio Etc4132 E Grand River Ave, Howell, MI
Indulge your creativity in our immersive fused glass workshop, where you'll craft a stunning 4-piece Sun Chime that reflects your personal style and vision. From the moment you step in, you'll be captivated by the possibilities, as you're invited to shape your glass components into any form you desire, with an array of glass colors at your disposal. We will teach you everything you need to know, from cutting glass to arranging it on piece to be fired together. While the final composition must fit onto a 8" square tile or a 12" tile, you decide your price point, the size variations are limitless, empowering you to experiment and innovate within this spatial framework.
Dahlia Flower; Clay Handbuilding Workshop
Adult The Ceramic Studio Etc4132 E Grand River Ave, Howell, MI
Join us for a fun and creative clay handbuilding class. In this workshop, you will learn how to make a stunning clay dahlia approximately 8 inches in diameter. Let your creativity shine and craft a beautiful flower that will be a unique addition to your home or garden. Your handcrafted clay dahlia can be used as: a wall plaque, a tabletop decoration, or an elegant votive candle holder by leaving the center open. One of our creative instructors will guide you through every step, no experience required. This project is appropriate for ages 16 and up, no previous clay experience is required. Teens age 13-16 may also purchase a seat if attending with a paid adult.
Difficulty: EasyLighted Fused Glass
Fused Glass The Ceramic Studio Etc4132 E Grand River Ave, Howell, MI
Join us for a spring-inspired fused glass class where creativity knows no bounds! Under expert instruction, participants, aged 12 and up, of all skill levels will embark on a journey to create an exquisite 8" cross or other design on 4"x8" glass that fits perfectly into an LED wood stand or you can choose to add a hook instead so it can hang on a wall or in a window.
In our fully equipped studio, all tools and materials will be provided, ensuring a seamless crafting experience. Participants will have the freedom to choose from a range of fused glass base colors and a delightful variety of hues to stack atop their creation.
Lighted Fused Glass
Fused Glass The Ceramic Studio Etc4132 E Grand River Ave, Howell, MI
Join us for a spring-inspired fused glass class where creativity knows no bounds! Under expert instruction, participants, aged 12 and up, of all skill levels will embark on a journey to create an exquisite 8" cross or other design on 4"x8" glass that fits perfectly into an LED wood stand or you can choose to add a hook instead so it can hang on a wall or in a window.
In our fully equipped studio, all tools and materials will be provided, ensuring a seamless crafting experience. Participants will have the freedom to choose from a range of fused glass base colors and a delightful variety of hues to stack atop their creation.
Stoneware Afternoon!
Adult Children Stoneware The Ceramic Studio Etc4132 E Grand River Ave, Howell, MI
Join us at The Ceramic Studio Etc for a relaxing afternoon glazing Stoneware! We’ll offer a variety of glazing techniques so you can combine our glazes in beautiful patterns or let them flow together organically. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced ceramic artist, this workshop promises to be a valuable and inspiring experience. We look forward to seeing you at the workshop and helping you unleash your creativity with stoneware glazing!The cost of the class is $13 which covers instruction, glaze and firing on all techniques. You can choose from our available stoneware items the day of the event! You will pay for the piece you choose the night of the event, prices range from $15- $65. Most mugs are $27, serving pieces are $40 and up an we have some small bowls and a ramekin in the lower range as well.
Stoneware Night!
Adult Stoneware The Ceramic Studio Etc4132 E Grand River Ave, Howell, MI
Join us at The Ceramic Studio Etc for an exciting evening glazing Stoneware! We’ll offer a variety of glazing techniques so you can combine our glazes in beautiful patterns or let them flow together organically. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced ceramic artist, this workshop promises to be a valuable and inspiring experience. We look forward to seeing you at the workshop and helping you unleash your creativity with stoneware glazing!
Stoneware Night!
Adult Stoneware The Ceramic Studio Etc4132 E Grand River Ave, Howell, MI
Join us at The Ceramic Studio Etc for an exciting evening glazing Stoneware! We’ll offer a variety of glazing techniques so you can combine our glazes in beautiful patterns or let them flow together organically. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced ceramic artist, this workshop promises to be a valuable and inspiring experience. We look forward to seeing you at the workshop and helping you unleash your creativity with stoneware glazing!
Difficulty: Very EasyStory Time at Studio: Little Bird Dish
Children The Ceramic Studio Etc4132 E Grand River Ave, Howell, MI
Join us for Story Time at the studio! We love having our youngest artists in to enjoy stories and be inspired to paint something fun! We’ll read 2 stories, paint a Little Bird Dish, and have a snack! Just $15. We expect this experience to take about 1 hour. Projects will require firing and will be ready for pick up within 1 week. This experience is designed for children age 2 1/2-ish and up, younger siblings and strollers welcome. You only need to purchase a ticket for participating children, not for adults or younger non-participating siblings. Older siblings who might like to pick and paint from our shelves are also welcome, just pay for their pieces when you come. Limited to 18 story time participants, come join us for a morning full of creative fun!
Clay Tree Plaque: Handbuilding workshop
Adult Clay The Ceramic Studio Etc4132 E Grand River Ave, Howell, MI
In this workshop, attendees (ages 13 and up) will embark on a journey of clay handbuilding to craft their very own majestic tree plaque, approximately 9 inches in diameter. With expert guidance from our skilled instructors, you'll learn the art of shaping and sculpting clay into branches, leaves, and textures, bringing your tree to life in exquisite detail.
577 Foundation
Discover the joy of working with clay in 577’s dynamic pottery studio, where creativity, learning, and community come together. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced potter, our classes offer hands-on opportunities to explore new techniques and refine your skills. With access to three distinct kilns—wood, raku, and electric—participants can experience a range of firing methods that bring their work to life.
Our classes encourage artistic growth in a supportive and inspiring environment. Participants who complete the adult six-week pottery course gain access to independent studio time, allowing for continued exploration and creativity.
Join us and become part of a thriving community of makers dedicated to craftsmanship and discovery.
*This class is open to adults 18 and over, no prior clay experience is needed.
Join us for a hands-on pottery class to create a charming welcome plate! Class will begin with a step-by-step demonstration on rolling and shaping slabs. You’ll then choose from two template designs—a bird or a fox—for the top of your welcome plate. Next, you’ll create a second slab that can either be a classic “Welcome” sign or personalized with a name or address.
Your instructor, Alison, 577’s Pottery Coordinator, will guide you through the process and provide tips along the way. Once complete, you’ll leave your piece with us to be bisque-fired, glazed in your choice of color, and fired again. You’ll receive an email notification in about two weeks when your finished creation is ready for pickup.
This class is perfect for all levels, no experienced is needed. Come play in the clay!
577 Staff Instructor: Alison Buchanan
*This class is open to adults 18 and over, no prior clay experience is needed.
Back by popular demand! Enjoy a morning creating “faux sweets” in this whimsical class that includes a real sweet treat! Join Julie Beutler, 577 Pottery Manager and Ceramic Artist, as she demonstrates several clay building techniques, including pinch, slabs, and coils, to create several “faux sweets” of your choice. She will guide you through all the steps of creating your “sweets” and how to paint with underglazes, otherwise known as liquid colored clay, or find a glaze perfect for you.
Depending on the detail level, most class participants will make between two to four pieces. Will you choose pies, cookies, cupcakes, all three, or something different? This class is perfect for all levels, no experienced is needed. Come play in the clay!
Pickup will be scheduled for two to three weeks later after Julie has glazed and fired sweet. Participants will receive a notification via email.
577 Staff Instructor: Julie Beutler
*This class is open to adults 18 and over, no prior clay experience is needed.
Join us for this comprehensive adult pottery class. This multiple-week class is for adult beginners through advanced potters – all levels are welcome. This class is the pre-requisite class needed for many of our pottery classes at The 577 Foundation.
Open to students 18 and over, this class offers in-depth demos followed immediately by your own work time to create and have fun. You will be able to try all hand-building methods like pinch, coil, slab, and extruded techniques, plus a chance at the wheel. Finally, we will learn about glazing. Class is built around learning one skill each week.
All supplies and firings are included. Come play in the clay!
577 Staff Instructors: Julie Beutler, Pottery Studio Manager and Ceramic Artist & Alison Buchanan, Pottery Coordinator
Make spring break memorable with family time at 577! Join Alison Buchanan, 577’s pottery coordinator, for a new family class where you’ll create a bird-in-the-nest sculpture together. Alison will walk the class through simple pinch pot and sculpting techniques to create these delightful little sculptures.
Once completed, each creation will be bisque-fired, glazed in your choice of color, and fired again. Finished creations will be ready for pick-up in about two weeks, and each participant will receive an email notification when their piece is ready.
Class note: This family class is for both children and their accompanying adults to enjoy an exploration of hand-built pottery projects. Class is open to children 7 to 17 with an adult over 18, no prerequisite or experience is required.
577 Staff Instructor: Alison Buchanan
Off school for spring break? Get in the mood for spring with this adorable bunny pinch pot class! 577’s Pottery Coordinator, Alison, will guide students through the fun process of making their own bunny dish using simple pinch pot techniques. We will highlight eyes, nose, bellies with underglazes. These endearing little pieces can be used to hold snacks, trinkets, jewelry, change, or jellybeans.
Once completed your child’s design will be bisque fired, dipped in a clear glaze, and fired again. Pickup will be about two weeks later. Each child (guardian) will receive a notification via email.
Class note: This class is open to children ages 7 to 17. No prerequisite or experience is required. Adults are not required to attend youth pottery classes. Children may be dropped off at the beginning of class and picked up at the scheduled end time.
577 Staff Instructor: Alison Buchanan
Get in the mood for spring with this adorable bee plate! In this hands-on class, each kiddo will craft their own custom plate featuring a charming bee design—sure to become a snack-time favorite for years to come.
Led by Alison, 577’s Pottery Coordinator, each child will explore slab-building techniques and follow step-by-step guidance to shape and decorate their piece. Once complete, everyone will have the opportunity to finish their design with underglazes, and after bisque firing, staff will apply a final glaze. Finished pottery will be ready for pick-up about two weeks after class, with email notifications sent when it’s ready.
Class note: This class is open to children ages 7 to 17. No prerequisite or experience is required. Adults are not required to attend youth pottery classes. Children may be dropped off at the beginning of class and picked up at the scheduled end time.
577 Staff Instructor: Alison Buchanan
This fun and interactive pottery class is perfect for the young artist in your life! In this hands-on session, each child will create an adorable owl planter along with a small underdish/saucer—perfect for succulents, cacti, or other small plants that will make this piece a household favorite for years to come.
Led by Alison, 577’s Pottery Coordinator, children will use simple pinch pot techniques to shape their planter and bring their owl to life by adding eyes, a beak, and wings. They’ll also craft a small plate to go underneath, helping to protect surfaces when watering.
Once complete, each child will have the opportunity to finish their pieces with underglazes, and after bisque firing, staff will apply a final glaze. These charming pottery sets will be ready for pick-up in about two weeks, with email notifications sent when they are ready.
Class note: This class is open to children ages 7 to 17. No prerequisite or experience is required. Adults are not required to attend youth pottery classes. Children may be dropped off at the beginning of class and picked up at the scheduled end time.
577 Staff Instructor: Alison Buchanan
Join us in the Pottery Studio for a fun, hands-on family class where you’ll create two custom flower vases—one to give and one to keep, unless you can’t bear to part with either!
Each pair will receive two extruded cylinders to transform into unique vases by adding a base and embellishments. Led by Alison, 577’s Pottery Coordinator, the class will explore different decoration and texture techniques, with plenty of inspiring examples to spark creativity. If time allows, there will be an opportunity to paint our decorations with underglazes for that perfect pop of color!
Once completed, each creation will be bisque-fired, glazed in your choice of color, and fired again. Finished pieces will be ready for pick-up in about two weeks, with email notifications sent when they are ready.
Class note: This family class is for both children and their accompanying adults to enjoy an exploration of hand-built pottery projects. Class is open to children 7 to 17 with an adult over 18, no prerequisite or experience is required.
577 Staff Instructor: Alison Buchanan
Mandatory: MUST have successfully completed the 577 Adult Pottery 6 Week Class to participate.
Create an adorable pinch pot-style fox sculpture in this hands-on class led by Alison. Perfect for those who have recently completed the 6-week pottery class or seasoned potters looking to refine their pinch pot techniques and spark creativity, this workshop offers something for everyone.
Together, we’ll cover the basics of shaping the body and head using simple pinch pot techniques. Alison will also demonstrate fun ways to customize your fox with scarves, hats, and other charming accessories. You’ll have the opportunity to paint parts of your new creation with underglazes, adding your flair to this whimsical project. Alison will also give glaze suggestions and how best to glaze. Glazing will be on your own during indie time.
Important Class Note: Glazing will be completed on your own during indie time.
Mandatory: MUST have successfully completed the 577 Adult Pottery 6 Week Class to participate.
Glazing is just as important to master as the creation of the pot itself, and this class will help you build confidence in both your technique and creative voice. Whether you’re a brand-new potter or highly experienced, there’s something for everyone in this popular class.
Julie will cover everything from using the spray booth and glazing tricky shapes to the proper cleaning of bottoms and sides, understanding glaze consistency, and troubleshooting when things go wrong. The class includes time for answering questions, so we can address specific challenges you’re facing. This class is available in both daytime and evening sessions in March.
Important Class Notes: You’ll get the most out of this class if you have pieces ready to glaze.
Mandatory: MUST have successfully completed the 577 Adult Pottery 6 Week Class to participate.
Join us in the Pottery Studio for a hands-on dragon sculpting workshop taught by Alison. This technique-focused class begins with basic hand-building methods before moving into advanced sculpting and finishing techniques to achieve a polished, professional look.
These imaginative fantasy creatures make stunning centerpieces or functional bookends. Around noon, we’ll take a break for a potluck lunch hour, with more details on what to bring shared closer to the class date via email.
This workshop is ideal for anyone looking to sharpen their hand-building skills, with techniques that will benefit many future projects. Important Class Note: Glazing will be completed on your own during indie time.
Mandatory: MUST have successfully completed the 577 Adult Pottery 6 Week Class to participate.
Slab plates are fun and easy to create using simple techniques! In this hands-on class, Julie will guide you through the process of rolling a slab properly to help prevent warping and cracks. You’ll also learn the basics of using the slab roller and its benefits, along with techniques for cleaning edges, decorating, and cutting clay. Julie will discuss how to use different molds effectively and what makes a great mold.
After the demonstration, there will be plenty of time to work on your own plates. While glazing will be completed independently during open studio time, Julie will share some fun tips for glazing slabs to help bring your creations to life. This class is perfect for all skill levels and will help you improve your slab work for years to come.
577 Staff Instructor: Julie Beutler
Mandatory: MUST have successfully completed the 577 Adult Pottery 6 Week Class to participate.
Create an enchanting mushroom fairy house in this fun, hands-on pottery class! Led by Alison, the class will begin with a demonstration on slab construction, along with techniques for adding textures and decorative details to personalize each fairy house.
You’ll have the opportunity to add your own flair by painting details with underglazes, and Alison will provide helpful tips and glaze suggestions to bring your creation to life. This charming piece will make a whimsical addition to your home or garden.
Class Note: Glazing will be completed on your own during indie time.
577 Staff Instructor: Alison Buchanan
Mandatory: MUST have successfully completed the 577 Adult Pottery 6 Week Class to participate.
Get ready for warm weather with this fun garden art class creating a toad abode! What’s a toad abode? It is a house for the toad residents of your yard or patio! These dome-like coil structures are a welcoming place for a hoppy little friend.
During class, Julie will guide you through the construction process using extruded coils to shape your toad abode. For those with advanced throwing experience, she will also discuss how to use the pottery wheel to create the base. Along the way, Julie will demonstrate techniques for adding unique decorations to personalize your piece.
You’ll have the opportunity to add your own flair by painting details with underglazes, and Julie will provide helpful tips and glaze suggestions to bring your creation to life.
Class Note: Glazing will be completed on your own during indie time.
577 Staff Instructor: Julie Beutler
Mandatory: MUST have successfully completed the 577 Adult Pottery 6 Week Class to participate.
Making slip transfers is fun and offers the freedom to explore a variety of designs and styles for your pottery. Everyone in class will receive a couple of professionally made transfers to keep and will also learn how to make their own. Julie will demonstrate techniques using newspaper and rice paper to achieve interesting effects—similar to temporary tattoos—and will also share how she creates custom silk screens.
After making transfers, there will be a discussion on layering and carving techniques to enhance your designs. Please bring two (2) to three (3) non-textured pieces (plates or bowls, either thrown or hand-built) that are still damp to ensure the transfers work smoothly. All supplies are included, but if you have specific underglaze colors you’d like to use, feel free to bring them.
Class Note: Glazing will be completed on your own during indie time.
577 Staff Instructor: Julie Beutler
Mandatory: MUST have successfully completed the 577 Adult Pottery 6 Week Class to participate.
Practice your skills on the wheel in this intensive study class with Julie. Class is set around your individual goals but the focus is to help you gain confidence on the wheel.
Start the session with a couple of short demonstrations from Julie, then you will have the rest of the time to work. Don’t worry if you feel a little rusty, your instructor will rotate between students to give advice and help. Prior to class, you will also receive an email with links to throwing videos to help rekindle that memory of throwing on the potter’s wheel.
Waitlists are available if class is listed as full.
Mandatory: MUST have successfully completed the 577 Adult Pottery 6 Week Class to participate.
This class is a hybrid of our popular “work from home” classes where you will make all the pieces at home and then join us for an in-person outdoor firing of the raku kiln. We will supply you with all the tools and resources you need to make for to six pieces: clay, pottery tools, drywall board, plastic bags to make your pieces at home.
You will also have options to receive links to videos on basic constructions to make pots of your choosing using techniques including, pinch, coils, slabs, as well as instructions/ideas for what to make for your raku firing. You can also choose to use your block of clay to create your pieces at home, in your own indie times or other clay classes at 577, or a combo of both.
Mandatory: MUST have successfully completed the 577 Adult Pottery 6 Week Class to participate.
The only (mostly) limits are your imagination in this “work from your home” class. This class is designed to be what you want to make. Experiment with new forms, work out a pattern, or make presents for the upcoming holidays or birthdays. It’s your clay to create what you would like.
Don’t worry if you are stumped for ideas. Julie can provide you with videos from previous Pottery-to-Go classes like pinch pot animals, slab plates, coil pots, and more.
In this “work from your home” class, we will supply you with all the tools and resources you need to make this project: clay, pottery tools, drywall board, plastic bags, a few short videos if you choose, plus email support from Julie. Optional: underglazes are available for an additional fee. Please note: This class no longer counts toward the three classes needed to keep indie time privileges.
March ~ Pick-up: March 7; Return: March 26
April ~ Pick-up: April 1; Return: April 23
