Frequently Asked Questions

COVID-19

Are you open?

Yes. During COVID-19, we require that you wear a mask & keep 6 feet apart from other guests. We have a limit on the number of customers in the gallery, and we sanitize our hands and surfaces.



Can I buy your pottery online?

No, we are not set up to have an online store & ship items. You can buy gift certificates to use when you visit us, and you can make tax-deductible contributions. Gift certificates can be used for pottery, or for our Take a Turn at the Wheel Class (you must register for a specific date when you're ready).



What are your hours?

In 2021 we are open: Friday 11am - 5pm Saturday 11am - 5pm Sunday 12pm - 5pm



Classes

Do you give pottery classes?

Yes. We have a single 3-hour class called Take a Turn at the Wheel. It is taught on the 2nd Saturday of each month, at a member's studiol in Ladiesburg, MD. If you're looking for a longer-term class in your area, visit our Resources page.



Buying Pottery

Do you have gift certificates?

Yes. You can buy gift certificates to use when you visit us, and you can make tax-deductible contributions. Gift certificates can be used for pottery, or for our Take a Turn at the Wheel Class (you must register for a specific date when you're ready).



What is your refund policy?

We do not offer refunds or exchanges on pottery purchases. If a class is canceled, the fee may be refunded or applied to a class on a different date.



Repairs

I have a favorite piece of pottery. Can you repair it? Or duplicate it?

We are unable to make repairs. However, Lakeside Pottery offers a repair service and online lessons for DIY repairs. http://www.lakesidepottery.com/ We are unable to duplicate items. The combination of clay, glazes, and firing techniques are unique to your piece. To duplicate a piece, all of these things would need to be known and duplicated exactly. Some of our members take commissions. If you would like to request an item with a specific design or function, please contact us.



Care of Pottery

Are they microwavable?

Yes, functional pottery is microwavable.



Are they dishwasher-safe?

In general, the functional pottery can be put in the dishwasher. Like any dishes, if they are fragile, place them carefully or hand wash.



Can they be put in the oven?

Yes. Be sure to put them in a COLD oven and let them HEAT UP GRADUALLY with the food.



Can teapots be heated up on a stovetop?

No. Do not heat them on a gas or electric stovetop, nor in a fire. They can be microwaved, heated in an oven starting with a cold oven or, better yet, pour hot water into them & add teabags.



Can I use raku pieces for food, plants, etc?

Raku pieces are not food-safe and do not hold water. Raku is a special process for firing pottery. Pieces are glazed with special raku glazes, placed in a gas kiln or fire, and placed in a bucket of sawdust & paper immediately upon removal, to burn & smoke. They're often dipped in water to cool them off. They often have a black or crackly appearance. This process makes them fragile and porous.