Summer Clay Academy (Ages 8 - 12)
A week of muddy hands, new friends, and finished work they're proud of.
Available spots
Service Description
A full week of hands-on ceramics for kids ready to make real things with their hands. Over five mornings, students work directly with instructors Maria and Ellie to learn wheel throwing, handbuilding, and surface design — the same techniques our adult students learn, scaled for ages 8–12. They'll make pieces they'll actually want to keep and give away: animal or character sculptures, bowls, mugs, decorative tiles, and at least one piece they design from scratch. We cap the class at 8 students with two instructors (a 4:1 ratio) so every kid gets real attention at the wheel and one-on-one help with their projects. No prior experience needed. What the week looks like: Monday — Welcome to the studio. Studio tour, clay basics, and first pinch pots. Kids meet their instructors, learn studio safety, and get their hands dirty within the first 30 minutes. Tuesday — Wheel throwing day. Every student gets serious time at the wheel with one-on-one coaching. Most kids throw their first cylinder by the end of the morning. Wednesday — Handbuilding lab. Coil pots, slab construction, and a group project. This is the day where kids who didn't love the wheel discover they love clay. Thursday — Design your own piece. Students plan and build a piece of their own — sculpture, vessel, tile set, whatever they're drawn to. Instructors guide, kids decide. Friday — Glaze and celebrate. Last touches on projects, underglaze painting, and surface decoration. We end the week with a studio showcase before pieces head off for their 3-4 week kiln journey. What's included: All clay, tools, glazes, kiln firings, and aprons. Each student takes home 4–6 finished pieces. Schedule: Monday–Friday, June 29 – July 3, 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM Instructors: Maria Sartori, AP Art teacher at Needham High School and ceramicist, and Ellie Layton, experienced ceramics instructor. Pickup: Finished glazed work is ready for pickup approximately 4 weeks after the session ends (kiln schedule). What to bring each day: Closed-toe shoes, clothes that can get messy, a water bottle, and any necessary snacks. We'll provide everything else. Price: $879 (includes all materials, instruction, and firing) Drop-off opens at 7:50 AM. Pickup at 12:00 PM.
Upcoming Sessions
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation & Rescheduling Drop-in Workshops (one-session classes) Cancel 72+ hours before: full studio credit Cancel 24-72 hours before: 50% studio credit Cancel less than 24 hours or no-show: forfeit Multi-Week Courses Cancel 7+ days before the first session: full studio credit Cancel less than 7 days before the first session: 50% studio credit Once the course has started: no credit for missed or remaining sessions Private Workshops Cancel 14+ days before: full studio credit Cancel 7-14 days before: 50% studio credit Cancel less than 7 days before or no-show: forfeit Group size can be reduced up to 7 days before the event; reductions inside 7 days will not change the price Sunday Open Studio Non-refundable and non-reschedulable. This keeps seats available for students who can attend. Studio credits are valid for 12 months and can be used toward any class, workshop, or private session. If we cancel If Studio Hudson cancels or reschedules a class, you'll receive a full refund to your original payment method, or you can move to another available date — your choice. Accessibility & special requests Have accessibility needs or a special request? We want everyone to have a great experience here. Questions? Email hello@studiohudsonma.com.