by CCSA Admin | Oct 29, 2025 | Blog
At the 2025 Contemporary Ceramics Studio Association (CCSA) Annual Convention, members proved once again that paint-your-own-pottery (PYOP) studios are about more than just creativity—they’re about community, connection, and lending a helping hand when it’s needed most.
As part of the convention’s charitable initiatives, CCSA members participated in Pour With a Purpose, a wine tasting event designed to raise funds for those affected by recent floods in Texas. Through the generosity and enthusiasm of our members, the event raised $1,500, which will be donated to Mercy Chefs, an organization providing meals and essential food support to families and first responders impacted by the disaster.
The wine for the evening was donated by Steve’s Wine Bar in Denton, Texas, whose generosity helped make the event a success. Their contribution allowed members to come together, enjoy a wonderful local tasting, and raise money for an important cause.
While Mercy Chefs is primarily based in Virginia and Tennessee, they have established a brick-and-mortar location in Texas to support the local community and have committed to remaining there as long as their assistance is needed.
“The response from our members was incredible,” said a CCSA spokesperson. “PYOP studios aren’t just about painting—they’re about creating experiences and being a hub for our communities. When crises happen, we step up to help where we can.”
This event highlights the caring spirit and generosity that define CCSA members nationwide. Whether it’s through creativity or community service, PYOP studios continue to show that small businesses can make a meaningful difference.
About Mercy Chefs:
Mercy Chefs is a non-profit organization focused on delivering meals to families and first responders in areas affected by natural disasters. With their commitment to serve as long as the need exists, they provide vital support and comfort in times of crisis.
About CCSA:
The Contemporary Ceramics Studio Association (CCSA) represents PYOP studios across the country, providing education, resources, and community for small business owners in the fired arts industry.
Find a studio near you → https://members.ccsaonline.com/studios_locator.cfm
by CCSA Admin | Oct 7, 2025 | Blog
October marks the start of sweater weather, pumpkin everything, and a fresh new season. As routines settle in and the air turns crisp, your local Paint Your Own Pottery (PYOP) studio is the perfect cozy-day destination. Whether you’re welcoming fall or need a creative pick-me-up, painting pottery is a soul-soothing way to celebrate the season of change.
The air is crisp, the leaves are changing, and it’s the perfect season to cozy up with something creative. If you’re looking for a way to make this fall extra special, your local paint-your-own pottery studio has you covered!
Whether you’re planning a family outing, looking for a fun night with friends, or starting on those thoughtful holiday gifts, pottery painting is the perfect way to add a little joy to the season.
Themed Fall & Holiday Events
Studios are rolling out festive events that bring all the fall vibes. Think:
These events are the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit while creating something beautiful to take home.
Kids Camps & Creative Fun
Looking for activities to keep your kids engaged and inspired? Many studios offer fall break or holiday kids’ camps filled with painting, games, and seasonal projects they’ll be proud to show off. It’s a screen-free way for kids to learn, create, and make memories.
One-of-a-Kind Holiday Gifts
Why shop the same big-box shelves when you can create gifts that truly mean something? At your local studio, you can:
-
Personalize mugs, plates, and ornaments for family & friends
-
Capture handprints and footprints for keepsakes
-
Make gifts that will be treasured for years to come
Handmade gifts from the heart always beat store-bought!
Find Your Local Studio
Fall is the perfect season to slow down, sip some cider, and let your creativity flow. Visit your local paint-your-own pottery studio and see what fun fall happenings they have planned. You’ll be surprised by how many seasonal events, camps, and workshops are waiting for you.
✨ Ready to make this fall unforgettable?
Find a studio near you → https://members.ccsaonline.com/studios_locator.cfm
by CCSA Admin | Oct 7, 2025 | Blog
As summer winds down and families gear up for back-to-school, August offers a perfect pause to reconnect, recharge, and make memories. What better way to wrap up the season than with creativity—and no mess mess at home—with your local Paint‑Your‑Own‑Pottery (PYOP) studio?
1. Art as a Summer Wind‐Down
While vacations and pool days may dominate July, August brings a more reflective pace—a time to transition. Engaging in art, like painting pottery, is a wonderful way to slow down and nurture your mental wellbeing. Studies show that art projects can strengthen your mind, boost serotonin, improve fine motor skills, and balance emotions It’s the perfect low‑pressure way to savor these last warm weeks.
2. Stress‐Free Back‑to‑School Prep
August often brings school supply lists, new schedules, and the sprint to get everything ready. Stopping by a PYOP studio offers a fun and calming interlude. Bring your child (or your inner child) to decorate pencil cups, lunch bowls, or personalized nameplate tiles—functional treasures that brighten morning routines. It’s a creative outlet and a stress reliever before the school‑year buzz kicks in.
3. Crafting Memories Together
Whether you’re returning to routines or wrapping up summer, painting pottery is a delightful way to connect. Collaborate on a friendship platter, co‑decorate a photo frame from your summer travels, or craft keepsake tiles with handprints and a date. Shared creativity fosters joy—and leaves lasting mementos.
4. Student & Teacher Perks
Teachers, students, and families can all benefit from a creative session:
-
Teachers (or soon-to-be-teachers): Paint a mug or desk organizer as a first-day‑of‑school piece.
-
Students: Begin the year with calm, focus, and a creative mindset—great for easing back into learning.
-
Parents: Sneak in some self-care before the school year whirlwind.
5. August Studio Highlights
Most PYOP studios offer:
-
A broad selection of bisque pieces—from mugs and bowls to figurines and tiles.
-
Full palettes of vibrant underglazes, plus help from artists for lettering or stencils.
-
A relaxing, mess-free environment—no cleanup or drying time at home.
6. How It Works
-
Choose a piece from mugs to decorative tiles.
-
Paint your design with assistance or freestyle—use the kiln-safe, food-safe glazes provided.
-
Leave it to be glazed & fired—a shiny overglaze seals everything, then it’s kiln‑fired and smoothed.
-
Pick it up in about a week, ready to enjoy or display.
August is your creative intermission—a chance to catch your breath, make something meaningful, and enter the fall feeling refreshed and connected. Whether you’re back-to-schooling, savoring last-minute summer freedom, or just eager to paint, a PYOP visit is the perfect mix of art, connection, and calm.
Visit your local PYOP studio today and wrap this summer in color and creativity! https://members.ccsaonline.com/studios_locator.cfm
