Choose your colours, learn the techniques, then get painting.
The paints you’re using are called underglazes. The numbered colours on the fired test circle match the numbers on the paint bottles, so use the circle to choose your shades.
Red may look pink as you paint. After firing, it will match the fired test circle.
Use paint sparingly. Squeeze a small amount onto your palette to start; you can always add more.
Light pencil marks vanish during firing, so you can sketch a simple guide for your design.
Paint it first, then add your pencil design. Underglaze covers pencil, so a background coat can hide an earlier sketch.
All our pieces fire white wherever you leave them unpainted. You don’t need a white base coat.
Tap to compare coats. Aim for 3–4 coats for solid colour.
A light wash. Brush marks will show through.
Illustration of coverage only — use the fired test circle for colour.Let each coat dry before adding the next. One coat dries in seconds; more coats take longer to dry.
Lighter colours won’t look as bold when painted over darker colours. Try leaving gaps in the darker colour where you want your lighter details to go, so they can show through more clearly.
Rinse your brush when changing colours to keep your shades clean.
Lid off. Add a little underglaze.
Lid on. Press the fine nib on tightly.
Squeeze gently onto a palette or into a water tub.
Use light pressure. One coat is usually enough.
A playful scattering of paint.
Soft, textured marks.
Dots and personal touches.
Lines, washes and bold strokes.
Need a starting point? Try the tab or have a play on the virtual pot below.
At the end of your session, leave your pieces with us. We dip them in a transparent glaze, then put them in the kiln. This brings the colours to life, makes your pottery shiny and gets it ready to eat and drink from.
Please don’t put dirty brushes back in the holder. Leave them on the table and we’ll take care of the rest.
Your pottery is hand wash only. It isn’t suitable for the microwave or dishwasher.
Check the expected ready date and collection arrangements with the team before you leave, then wait for your ready-to-collect message.
Dots, stripes, tiny flowers and a single bold colour all look lovely. Your pot doesn’t need to look like anyone else’s! For inspiration, browse pieces painted in our studio ↗, or try the “Inspire me” tab here for a fresh idea.
Yes — anywhere, including underneath and inside!
Let it dry, then paint over it with the colour underneath, or gently sand it off. Ask a staff member for sandpaper.
You only need one little idea to begin.
Pick three colours and scatter dots around your pot. Leave a little space between them so each colour gets its moment.
All 60 ideas shuffle before repeating. Try one on the practice pot below.
Try your design on a virtual mug, bowl or plate.
Pick a colour, then draw on your pot.
Just for ideas — screen colours aren’t a fired paint chart.