Classes & Workshops I Corporate & Group Events

Black Leopard Clayware's pottery classes are open to all adults and kids with an interest in discovering the magic of clay! Whether you're a newcomer or seasoned clay artist, you can learn what you want and on a schedule that suits you!

The studio features top-of-the-line potter's wheels, slabroller, commercial-grade spray booth, a collection of over 300 underglazes and glazes, and a comprehensive library of over 140 books for in-studio inspiration. We also carry tools, clay, and finishing products, all offered at reasonable cost. (Click here to see what our customers have to say about our classes, products, and other services.)

Gift Certificates are available for all classes, services and products, perfect for any occasion! You can purchase directly from the studio, or order online.

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Each student is important at Black Leopard Clayware and our courses ensure that everyone gets the special attention they deserve. With class sizes kept to a maximum of 4 students, you'll achieve rapid progress in a friendly environment designed for you to proceed at a comfortable pace.

We welcome newcomers, artists who've been away from clay for a while, and seasoned artists wanting to refine their skills. Our classes in handbuilding and throwing on the electric wheel include regular demos, attention to surface treatments, decorating with glazes and underglazes, and of course individual attention. Add a ton of encouragement and you're on your way!

Our hallmark approach to teaching gives students ample opportunity for exploration, discovery, and unexpected results. Everyone's taught to incorporate sound technical skills with creative design and self-expression. Come prepared to be inspired!

Black Leopard Clayware offers two Ongoing Courses: a 20-hour 8-week course, and a 10-hour 4-week course (weekly, 2-1/2 hour sessions). Open Lab is offered every Thursday for students 18+ enrolled in either course to practice what they've learned during class. Please check out our online Studio Calendar for space availability. Since courses are by pre-registration, please contact us at least least one week in advance to reserve your spot.

Our 2-hour introductory class Clay Pasa!, as well as our Weekend Workshops are great venues for discovering the magic of clay, focusing on a particular technique, or just getting together for a fun, creative time! The online Studio Calendar gives current information. Since courses are by pre-registration, please contact us at least one week ahead of your desired date to reserve your space.

Just want to drop in periodically to use the studio for your own projects outside of a class or workshop environment? Open Clay Studio sessions are available to experienced clay artists 18+ by the hour or monthly pass. Check the Studio Calendar, then contact us to reserve your time.

BLC's Clay Mobile can produce special group clay events at a customer's home or school. Small groups may also elect to book their event right here at the studio. Either way, we're happy to work with you to design a fun birthday party, wedding shower, a day away from the office, fundraiser or other event!

Services & Rates for 2008:

When we're not making pottery in our San Jose studio, we're holding classes! All our regular courses include a generous supply of studio clay, use of major equipment, tools, and glazes, and firing in our kilns.

Now it's easy to pick a class date and time that's convenient for you. Just click on our STUDIO CALENDAR for at-a-glance space availability, then follow the simple instructions listed at the top of the calendar screen. Note: All courses are by pre-registration only.

ONGOING COURSES:

These classes meet for 2-1/2 hours once a week, Mondays through Wednesdays. Choice of times Mon-Wed: 2:00 - 4:30 pm and 6:30 - 9:00 pm. Tuition is per person:

8-week: $350

4-week: $215

SHORT COURSES:

6/24 to 8/14 -- Summer Clay Camp for Kids: Fun projects are presented each week and include animal sculptures, boxes, mugs, tiles and more! Clay, glazes, and all firings are included in the tuition. Classes are by pre-registration, at least one week in advance of desired start date. Choice of times: Tuesdays or Thursdays, 10 am - Noon. Tuition is per person:

8-week: $350

4-week: $200

Clay Pasa!: This is our 2-hour introductory class, guaranteed to get your hands muddy and put a smile on your face! Alternating Adults' Night-Out and Family Night held every week. Make as many pots as you'd like with expert guidance from our staff. Suitable for ages 6 and up, minors must be accompanied by a paying adult. $50/person.

Weekend Workshops: We can design a one- or two-day workshop for individuals or small groups. Per person/day/$145. 9:30 am to 4:00 pm, Saturdays (and Sundays for the two-day format).

Family Clay Day: Every quarter BLC offers a day just for families to create projects inspired by the four seasons. By pre-registration only. Click here to learn more and sign up. Registration closes the week before this event.

Clay-Speak: Terms, Tips & Techniques for the New Clay Artist: A spiral-bound full-color guide for new and returning artists. Easy to read, this is a great addition to your reference library. $14.50. Purchase the booklet through the studio or order online. Save the sales tax when you purchase directly from BLC at time of class registration. (Now you can also download directly from the publisher for $6.25.)

OPEN CLAY STUDIO: $9/hour, $85/monthly pass. For all experienced clay artists 18+. Participants have access to equipment, tools, and glazes. Plus, firings are always free for works made from clay purchased at BLC! Click here to learn more. Note: OCS is for non-production clay artists.

SPECIAL ORDERS: Have an item you want custom-made, or a clay project that needs expert attention? Call us for a quote!

BLC's MOBILE CLAY STUDIO COMES TO YOU!: Whether you're 10 or 110, we can help you make a special event memorable with a clay party at your home or school. See our Clay Mobile info sheet and to book your event!

FIRING SERVICES: Firing fees for small sizes/quantities are charged by the cubic inch: 1-cent for cone 04-06; 2-cents for cone 5-6; and 3-cents for cone 7-10. Larger quantities and item sizes are assessed by the shelf- or kiln-load. Pre-heating and other firing programs also available. 4-day minimum turnaround (shorter turnaround available, too). All firings are done in our electric kilns, oxidation only.

GLAZE MIXING: We will mix most published glaze and slip recipes. Starting at $9.00/pint.

RESTORATION: We can repair or restore many types of damaged ceramic items. For a free estimate email with your query and an image of the damaged item. Fee based on time/materials.