Starting your first pottery class is so fun and exciting. To keep the good times rolling and avoiding any pottery outfit mishaps, check out this list below to ensure you are prepared with what to wear to your first pottery class.
Clothing to Wear in the Pottery Studio
1. Comfortable shirt with Short Sleeves
Sleeves are far more likely to get in the way when doing pottery – it’s best to avoid this by wearing short sleeves or sleeves that you can roll up
2. Comfortable Pants with Some Stretch
3. Clothing That Can Get Dirty
Avoid wearing precious clothing, especially when working with red clay. This is more likely to stain.
4. Wear Layers
To be comfortable in the class, you want to wear layers in case the pottery studio is cool or warm. Those Kilns can really heat up a room if they’re close by!
5. Bring an Apron and Towel
Bring your own apron to avoid the chance that the studio does not provide them.
Also, bring a towel to drape over 1 leg as the apron will likely only cover 1 leg when you are at the wheel. This avoids more mess on your pants. The towel is also great to wipe your hands.
6. Close Toed Shoes
I always recommend wearing close toed shoes that you can get dirty. Because you are in a studio with machinery, heavy bags of clay and sharp tools, it is important to protect your feet as accidents can definitely happen.
Because you are hugging the wheel, you want to wear pants that allow some movement and stretch so you can easily get up and down from the wheel without discomfort
Avoid Wearing Jewelry When Doing Pottery
- Remove rings and store them safely at home or in a tight pocket prior to getting on the wheel
- Avoid long necklaces as these are a safety hazard.
- These can get caught in the wheel when you are leaning over it which is a big safety concern.
Keep Hair Out of Your Face When Doing Pottery
- Avoid having hair in your face by putting it up in a ponytail, a bun or braids.
- Any loose hair that falls in your face is going to end up covered in clay because you are going to be moving it with your messy hands.
Can I have Long Nails in the Pottery Studio?
- Yes, you can but I recommend against long nails if possible. The reason for this is your nails will dig into your clay and make it more difficult to handle the clay on the wheel. If you are able to trim your nails, I would recommend this. However, if you would prefer to keep your long nails, there are some workarounds. Ask your teacher or check out this tutorial.
If you are preparing for your first pottery class, check out these other helpful resources to help you feel confident before class! Enjoy the world of clay!
What to Make in Your First Pottery Class
What to Expect for your First Pottery Class
Do’s and Don’ts for your First Pottery Class
If you are a new potter and found this tutorial helpful, check out the post on Best Pottery Tools for New Potters. Although your studio will likely provide these tools, as you evolve in your craft, these tools are essential for your pottery journey.
