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 FAQ’s below for more information and how to book.
In order to keep everyone safe and keep the space open, please do not come in if you are experiencing any symptoms of COVID-19. If you have already made a booking contact us at to be issued a refund.
When in the studio:
When do the Open Studio sessions take place?
Mondays and Thursdays: 1-4.30pm, 1-6pm and 4.30-8pm
(We offer 3.5hr sessions and a 5hr session to accomodate members’ time schedules.)
How much does each session cost?
Monday & Thursday 5 hour sessions cost £8.50
Monday & Thursday 3.5 hour sessions are £6.
Each session must be booked individually. The sessions include 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.
NOTE: Before attending your first session, both current and new studio members must read the studio guidelines and complete a membership form. Please fill out the studio membership form and send to studio@britishceramicsbiennial.com before your first session.
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.
I would like to use the studio but I can’t afford the cost at this time.
If you would like to make use of the Open Studio, but feel your financial situation is currently a barrier to this, please get in touch and we can discuss alternative opportunities available to you.
What safety measures have been put in place?
- Hot water!
- Individual workspaces
- Hand sanitiser