Open Studio

British Ceramics Biennial provides open-access ceramics facilities in Stoke-on-Trent. We run our studio from the historic Spode Works factory site in the centre of the city. Sessions are booked on a pay-as-you-go basis. Please note, new studio members must read the studio guidelines and complete our studio membership form before booking a session on Eventbrite. 

Please read our FAQs below for more information and how to book.

 

When do the Open Studio sessions take place?

Open studio sessions take place on Mondays and Thursdays. You can choose between the following times:

  • 3.5 hour sessions from 1-4.30pm or 4.30-8pm
  • 5 hour session from 1-6pm
  • 7 hour session from 1-8pm

 

How much does each session cost?

3.5 hour sessions are £6.

5-hour sessions are £9.

7 hour sessions are £12.

Sessions are booked individually. Each session includes access to the space and equipment plus the firing of work made during the sessions.

 

How do I book a session?

Bookings are made through our Eventbrite. Sessions for Monday and Thursday are listed separately.

For each session, choose either a hand-building space (in the main part of the studio) or a throwing space (in the adjoining part of the studio). There are currently 7 hand-building spaces and 4 wheel spaces to adhere to social distancing guidelines.
There will be space for you to store your belongings underneath your workspace. Each workspace will have a set of tools provided, but if you have tools of your own you would like to use please bring them along.

NOTE: Before attending your first session, both current and new studio members must read the studio guidelines and complete a membership form. Any questions or concerns, please contact studio@britishceramicsbiennial.com.

 

What equipment do you have at the studio? 

Potter’s wheels x4 

Slab roller 

Extruder and dies 

Moulds suitable for press moulding and slip casting 

Blunger 

Drying cupboard 

Kilns (up to stoneware temperatures) 

Hand-building tools 

Screen printing equipment 

Digital transfer printer 

 

What if I have my own studio but need somewhere to fire my work?

We are continuing to offer a firing service for makers who want to make outside of the studio but need access to a kiln.

If you have any questions or concerns, please do talk to us at studio@britishceramicsbiennial.com.