OCAF Pottery Studio Rules and Procedures

The following rules and procedures apply to both class and open studio use.

All students and participants using the OCAF Pottery Studio are responsible for exercising behavior that is consistent with the aims of the instructor and/or open studio staff to ensure a positive environment for everyone. 

A quiet, peaceful studio without constant disruption by others, facilitates the artistic experience.  Loud, boisterous behavior is distractive and interferes with the creative process of others.  Any questions or concerns should be directed to the class instructor or studio volunteer allowing others to continue working peacefully.

Students or participants that repeatedly exercise disruptive behavior will be asked to leave the studio.  Chronic disruptive behavior or noncompliance with stated requirements of the instructor or open studio rules will result in expulsion from the class/workshop or open studio program and no refunds will be issued. 

HEALTH AND SAFETY

Maintaining health and safety in a pottery studio is crucial due to the various hazards associated with ceramic materials and processes. These hazards can include exposure to harmful dust, chemicals, and physical injuries. Inhalation of silica dust from clay and other materials can possibly lead to serious respiratory issues, including silicosis and lung cancer.

·         Sanding should be done outside.  Wearing a mask when sanding is also advised.

·         Use wet sponges and the studio mop when cleaning instead of sweeping to prevent creating dust.

·         Follow the cleaning procedures below to prevent accumulation of dust and chemicals.

CLEANING

·         Ensure that you leave enough time before the end of your class or the open studio hours for cleaning.

·         Clean both the top, edge, and bottom of bats after you have finished and return them to the sink ready to be used again.

·         Wipe all clay from the wheel and surrounding areas including any splashes on the shelves, floor, and adjacent wheels.  Use a large damp sponge or the studio’s mop.

·         Clean splash pans thoroughly using the hose and outdoor sinks.  Dry pans before returning to the wheel.

·         Wash any studio tools thoroughly and return to the proper place.

·         Wash towels and aprons then hang outside to dry.

·         Wipe any boards, worktables, slab canvases, and the wedging table/wire after use with a large sponge.

SINKS

·         Ensure that all running water goes into the buckets in the sink to prevent clogged drains.  Any spillage into the sink should cleaned with a sponge and rinsed into the buckets.  Do not fill the buckets to the rim due to spillage and weight when emptying.

CLAY

·         You are responsible for reclaiming your clay. If you do not want to reclaim, feel free to donate it to someone else.  Any unwanted clay scraps should be discarded in the trash not on the lawn.

GLAZES

·         All pieces should be waxed on the foot and bottom before dipping in the glazes.  Wash waxing brushes or sponges with warm water and detergent to remove all wax after use.

·         Clean the glaze area including any spoons, bowls, funnels, or other tools used.  Do not place any objects with glaze on them on the container lids. Use newspaper instead.

·         Thoroughly wipe excess glaze from the foot and bottom of the piece before placing on the glaze shelf.

·         Include a note with your piece if special instructions are needed.

SHELVING INSTRUCTIONS

There are several shelving areas for various stages of work.

·         “Works In Progress” shelves are for any pieces that you have not completed and are not ready for drying. These should be placed on a board, covered with plastic, and include your name.  Work should not be left on bats for extended periods since bats are needed for others.

·         “Drying Shelves” are for pieces that are completed and ready to dry.  Place your piece on a wooden board with your name.  Do not place damp pieces directly on the shelf. This causes the shelf to warp.

·         “Ready For Bisque” shelves are for pieces that are completely dried and ready to be bisque fired.  Do not put damp pieces on this shelf. Do not pick up other’s work on this shelf due to the fragile nature of dry unfired clay.

·         “Bisque Fired” shelves are for pieces that have been fired and are ready to be glazed.

·         “Glaze Shelves” are for finished glazed pieces ready for the final firing.  Wipe all glaze from the bottom of the piece including around the outside bottom edge or foot of the piece.  Pieces that are not wiped properly will not be fired.

By Checking the Box on the Form you confirm you have read and agree with these rules and regulations of the OCAF Pottery Studio.