MEMBERSHIP

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Thinking of Becoming a Member?

Membership is open to ceramicists who are confident working independently and understand our studio routines. We ask that prospective members complete at least three course blocks and can demonstrate safe and effective glazing practices, as well as familiarity with studio protocol.

 

What’s Included in Membership?

• A full day (up to 7 hours) of studio access each week.

• Use of studio tools and materials.

• Glaze and kiln firings included within fair use limits.

• Personal storage space for materials and in-progress work (please keep this neat to ensure everyone’s work can be stored safely).

• Invitations to member-only events like sales, exhibitions, talks, and social mixers.

• Need special clays or materials? You’re welcome to purchase specialist clays from us or request an item through our regular supplier orders—just have a chat with a member of the team or leave a note in the order book.

 

Membership Days and Closures

• Members can attend on Mondays, Tuesdays, or Fridays from 10am–5pm. You’re welcome to split your hours over two days if needed.

• We close for two weeks at Christmas—membership fees are reduced by 25% during this time.

• We’re open on all bank holidays except the May Bank Holiday. Monday members are invited to attend on Tuesday or Friday that week instead.

 

Firing Allowances for Members

• Most members fire around 4kg per month. If you need more than this, additional firings are charged at £5 per kilo.

• Larger pieces (over 30cm x 30cm x 20cm high) can take up considerable kiln space. While we love seeing ambitious work, we kindly ask that you speak with us first if you’re planning anything big or out of the ordinary.

 

Please note:

We’re unable to accommodate production potters or high-volume firings of items like tiles or tableware.

 

Fair Use & Studio Sharing

To maintain a calm, high-quality experience for all, we apply a fair use policy around kiln space and resources. Each person’s needs are balanced to ensure everyone gets the best from their time here.

 

Non-Transferable Membership

Your membership is personal to you and can’t be transferred to anyone else.

 

Studio Etiquette

• To keep the studio running smoothly and enjoyably for everyone, we ask that all students and members:

• Tidy their workspace after use.

• Respect others’ tools, time, and creations.

• Contribute to a warm and positive atmosphere.

• Rudeness or antisocial behaviour simply isn’t part of studio life—those who cannot uphold a respectful environment may be asked to leave.

 

Clay, Glazes & Firing

Can I Bring My Own Clay?

To ensure consistent results and safe firings, we only fire clay bought through the studio.

 

Can I Fire Work Made at Home?

Unfortunately, we don’t offer firing services for external work at this time.

 

Can I Use My Own Glazes?

Yes, you’re welcome to bring your own glazes. Just speak with us first so we can confirm compatibility with our firing temperatures.

Please don’t add water to studio glazes unless supervised by a team member.

 

Health & Safety in the Studio

• Please wear closed-toe shoes and an apron or clothes you don’t mind getting messy.

• Only use oxides under tutor supervision.

• Help keep dust to a minimum by washing and putting away all tools and equipment after use.

• Mops are available for any spillages.

• Personal belongings can be stored in the cloakroom, but we ask that you take care of your own items while at the studio.

 

Liability Waiver

All members must sign a liability waiver outlining the risks involved in pottery making. This waiver releases Mudworks from responsibility for any injuries sustained while using the studio facilities. The Mudworks has comprehensive insurance and public liability.

 

Membership Agreement

Members are required to sign a membership agreement that includes details of payment obligations and policies on cancellations and no-shows.

 

Respectful Conduct

All members must conduct themselves in a manner that is respectful to others and upholds our commitment to an inclusive and harassment-free environment.

 

These guidelines are designed to protect both the studio and its members, ensuring a safe, productive, and enjoyable pottery-making experience for everyone involved. If you have any specific concerns or suggestions, we’re always happy to discuss them further to enhance our studio’s community and operations.

 

The Mudworks reserves the right to terminate any membership if the member fails to comply with the guidelines, ensuring the safety and well-being of everyone in the studio.