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Become a member
Mud Club Members get access to our studio 4-8 times a month. Where you are able to fire pieces, and use our tools and equipment. 

This membership does not include instruction and therefore previous experience is required; usually this means you have taken at least one wheel-throwing or hand-building class at The Burrow, or have other formal ceramics training.

1. Welcome to The Burrow

At The Burrow, we celebrate the process of creating ceramics over perfection or volume. Whether you're a hobbyist or a small-batch potter, we aim to foster a community where creativity thrives and everyone feels welcome. Let’s make beautiful things together!

2. Clay and Materials

Purchasing Clay

  • All clay must be purchased at The Burrow.

  • Recycled clay is often available at half price.

Clay Types and Prices
Clay Type
Price per 25 lb
Price Per 12.5 lb
Price per 6.25 lb
PSH Cone 6 Black Clay
$65
$45
$25
Georgies Trillium Porcelain Clay
$65
$45
$25
Georgies White Salmon Clay
$65
$45
$25

Note: Prices do not include GST/PST. Members may purchase up to 1 x 25-lb. bag of clay per month.

3. Firing Policy

  • The Burrow fires to cone 6 (stoneware/mid-range).

  • We only fire work created by studio members and students.

  • Members are encouraged to fire only pieces they care deeply about, aligning with our focus on creativity over volume.

  • Please note: We do not offer a firing service or fire work created at home.

Key Firing Guidelines

  • Ensure all glazes are wiped off to at least 1/4" above the bottom of the pot.

  • Label your pieces clearly to avoid confusion or recycling.

  • The Burrow is not responsible for damage to pieces during firing.

4. Studio Usage

Capacity and Equipment

Studio Capacity: 10 people maximum (6 on wheels).

Equipment Available:

  • 6 Electric Pottery Wheels, 1 Table-Top Wheel

  • Wedging Table & Boards, Banding Wheels

  • Stamps, Rollers, and variousmolds for slab building

Labeling and Storage

  • Label all wet projects with your name and the date.

  • Use a ware board for works in progress and cover with plastic.

  • Wet projects can be stored for up to 2 weeks before being recycled.

  • Glaze bisque ware and pick up finished work within 2 weeks of unloading.

5. Glazing Guidelines

Glaze and Underglaze Options

  • Dip Glazes: Clear, alabaster, matte grey, gloss black, and majolica.

  • Colored and Metallic Glazes: Apply one thick coat only; do not mix glazes.

  • Underglazes: A variety of store-bought and homemade slips and stains are available.

Application Tips

  • Wax or wipe glaze 1/4" from the bottom to prevent runs.

  • Avoid full double dips to reduce blistering and pinholes.

  • Label pieces that might run during firing.

  • Bring store-bought glazes to staff for review before use.

6. Health and Safety

Preventing Clay Dust

Dust from all clay contains free silica that is too fine and heavy to be expelled from the lungs. Over time this can cause silicosis, a lung disease. Here are a few things we do at The Burrow to prevent this

  • Wet wipe surfaces with a sponge instead of brushing or sweeping.

  • Mop the floor after wheel throwing or glazing sessions.

  • Only wet sand bisque ware; dry sanding must be done outdoors.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Use the 3-step system to keep clay out of drains:

  1. Rinse tools and hands in the bucket.

  2. When cleaning wheels, please sponge away all clay from the wheel head, splash pan, floor, and surrounding area.

  3. When cleaning hand building areas, sponge down canvas until clear Please dry all tools thoroughly! Please put all tools away!

Recycle throwing slop and trimmings into the appropriate bins.

7. Studio Etiquette

  • Allocate 15-20 minutes for cleanup after sessions.

  • Return tools and equipment to their proper places.

  • Respect shared spaces by keeping your area tidy and following labeling rules.

  • Engage with fellow members and foster a supportive environment!

8. Quick Reference Section

Key Points to Remember

  1. Clay: Purchase at The Burrow; max 1 x 25-lb. bag/month.

  2. Firing: Only work created in the studio is fired; label all pieces.

  3. Storage: Wet projects stored for up to 2 weeks; label and date.

  4. Glazing: Wax or wipe 1/4" above the base; avoid double dips.

  5. Cleaning: Use wet cleaning methods; keep clay out of drains.

  6. Health: Wet sand only and prevent clay dust.

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Thank you for being part of The Burrow! Your creativity and care make our studio a special place for everyone. Let’s get our hands dirty and create something amazing!

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Mud Club Studio Guide Book

Thank you for becoming a member of our beautiful new pottery studio space in Artisan Square! This is a collection of information about how the studio operates. Please check in from time to time, we are still learning and evolving! Please let us know what is working and what needs improvement!

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