A well-lit pottery studio at Richard Tomaino Ceramics, featuring white pottery wheels, a wooden shelf with ceramic works, and a large potted plant in the background. A calming, creative space for independent potters.

Studio Access

Looking for a space to practice, refine, and create at your own pace? Studio Access provides independent potters with a fully equipped space to explore their craft, work on personal projects, and hone their technique in a welcoming and inspiring environment.

Session Details:

  • Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM.

  • Saturdays & Sundays: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM.

  • Fee: $50 per session.

Booking Required:

Sessions must be reserved in advance to ensure availability.

A ceramic student shaping a clay piece on a pottery wheel at Richard Tomaino Ceramics. The artist’s hands are covered in clay as they refine the form, with natural light streaming in from a nearby window.

Who Is Studio Access For?

Since these sessions are unguided, we require all participants to have prior experience at RTC or another ceramics studio.

To ensure a smooth and productive session, you should be comfortable with:

  • Handling clay & tools independently.

  • Labeling & tracking your work.

  • Cleaning & resetting your space & equipment.

On your first visit, Richard or a studio technician will give you a quick rundown of studio amenities. If you have any questions, we’re happy to help!

Need a Bit More Support?

Cass Lee offers 30-minute mentorship sessions for those booked into Studio Access who’d like a little extra guidance. Whether you’re working through a specific challenge, refining a technique, or exploring new ideas, this add-on is designed to support your practice.

Session Details:

  • Duration: 30-minutes per session.

  • Fee: $30 per session.

  • Availability: Only available when booked alongside Studio Access

How It Works:

  1. First, reserve your Studio Access session.

  2. After booking Studio Access, you'll receive a link to schedule your mentorship session with Cass on your selected date.

Using The Studio

    • 10xShimpo RK3E pottery wheels for throwing.

    • Hand-building workbenches & slab rollers.

    • Professional ceramic tools for throwing & sculpting.

    • Large wash basin & limited clay storage.

    • Bright, open studio space designed for creativity.

    • Limited clay storage racks are available for in-progress work, subject to availability and studio capacity. Storage is not guaranteed.

    • Pieces must be stored in studio-approved boxes (IKEA Trofast box) or one provided by the studio (subject to availability). White IKEA Trofast boxes are available for purchase in-studio for $10, but stock is limited.

    • Bats and boards cannot be stored inside boxes to prevent mould growth.

    • Bone-dry pieces are a safety hazard and will be discarded immediately.

    • All work must be labeled with a name and dated. Unlabeled pieces will not be stored or fired.

    • Unclaimed work will be stored for a maximum of 3 weeks before being recycled.

    • Recycled clay: $2.50 per roll (~1.5kg) | $5 for 2 rolls (~3kg)

    • Fresh Stoneware Clay (Walkers): 10kg bag available for purchase, pending stock ($20).

    • Studio glazes available for purchase.

    • Bisque firing (980°C) & Stoneware glaze firing (1265°C + 20 min soak) – $12/kg (weighed before firing).

    • All potters must complete the RTC Studio Firing Form before submitting pieces for firing.