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:
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Personalize mugs, plates, and ornaments for family & friends
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Capture handprints and footprints for keepsakes
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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:
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Teachers (or soon-to-be-teachers): Paint a mug or desk organizer as a first-day‑of‑school piece.
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Students: Begin the year with calm, focus, and a creative mindset—great for easing back into learning.
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Parents: Sneak in some self-care before the school year whirlwind.
5. August Studio Highlights
Most PYOP studios offer:
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A broad selection of bisque pieces—from mugs and bowls to figurines and tiles.
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Full palettes of vibrant underglazes, plus help from artists for lettering or stencils.
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A relaxing, mess-free environment—no cleanup or drying time at home.
6. How It Works
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Choose a piece from mugs to decorative tiles.
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Paint your design with assistance or freestyle—use the kiln-safe, food-safe glazes provided.
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Leave it to be glazed & fired—a shiny overglaze seals everything, then it’s kiln‑fired and smoothed.
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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
by CCSA Admin | Jun 23, 2025 | Blog
Have you ever heard of glass fusing? While the name may sound complex, this fascinating art form is surprisingly accessible—even for beginners! Many paint-your-own-pottery (PYOP) studios offer glass fusing classes alongside traditional pottery painting, as both techniques require the same type of kiln. Whether you’re interested in learning basic techniques or creating unique, handcrafted glass art, this medium is a joy to explore.
How Does Glass Fusing Work?
Glass fusing involves layering pieces of glass onto a flat glass base and then heating them in a kiln until they fuse together. This process allows artists to create stunning, colorful designs with a variety of techniques and textures. The fused glass can go through the kiln multiple times to add elements, refine shapes, or change its structure.
Here are some common techniques used in glass fusing:
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Draping – The glass is placed over a tall, thin metal post inside the kiln. As it heats, the glass slowly drapes around the post, creating beautiful, organic folds. This technique is often used for small decorative bowls, such as ring dishes.
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Slumping – A technique similar to draping, but instead of a tall post, the glass is placed over a shallow mold to create a dish with gently curved edges. Slumping can also add texture to the surface or reshape bottles into sleek, flattened trays.
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Layering & Cutting – Artists can cut and layer different pieces of glass to create patterns, images, or abstract designs before firing them in the kiln.
What Can You Make with Glass Fusing?
Glass fusing opens up endless creative possibilities! Some of the most popular glass fusing projects include:
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Sun Catchers – Colorful, translucent designs that catch and reflect light beautifully.
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Jewelry & Pendants – Small, fused glass pieces that can be turned into unique necklaces or earrings.
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Lantern Panels – Custom glass designs fitted into metal lantern frames for a stunning, glowing effect.
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Decorative Bowls & Dishes – Functional art pieces created using slumping or draping techniques.
Tools & Materials Used in Glass Fusing
A glass fusing class will introduce you to a variety of tools and materials, including:
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Scrap Glass – Small, colorful pieces used to design patterns and images.
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Marbles – Added for rounded, decorative elements.
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Frit – A sand-like glass material that allows for layering colors and creating different opacities.
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Kiln Paper – Prevents the glass from sticking to the kiln shelf during firing.
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Glass Cutters – Used to shape and refine glass pieces before assembling a design.
Find a Studio Near You
If you’re intrigued by glass fusing and want to give it a try, check out your local PYOP studio to see if they offer glass fusing classes or workshops! Many studios provide beginner-friendly sessions with step-by-step guidance, so you can learn at your own pace. Use our studio locator to find a glass fusing studio near you and start crafting your own stunning glass art today!
by CCSA Admin | Jun 2, 2025 | Blog
Looking for an enriching and creative activity for your child after school or on a field trip? Paint-your-own pottery (PYOP) provides an exciting, hands-on way to stimulate their creativity while offering a fun and educational experience. With opportunities to make decisions about their pottery piece, color choices, artistic styles, and techniques, kids can develop their fine motor skills and focus in a low-stress, high-reward environment.
A Fun and Relaxing After-School Activity
Many PYOP studios offer extended hours, making them a perfect after-school destination. Whether your child wants to unwind with a creative project or you need a stress-free activity that runs itself, pottery painting is an ideal solution. Plus, if it becomes a weekly tradition, there’s always a fresh selection of pottery pieces to choose from, keeping the experience exciting and new. Some studios even offer additional activities like canvas painting or glass fusing, so be sure to ask about their full range of creative options.
A Hassle-Free Art Experience for Homeschoolers
For homeschooling families and groups, PYOP studios offer all the benefits of a fully equipped art classroom—without the prep work or cleanup! Studios provide everything needed, from pottery and glazes to kilns and tools, so kids can enjoy a seamless, mess-free art session. Even better, let studio associates guide the experience, giving you a well-deserved teaching break while your students stay engaged. Planning ahead? Many studios can set aside themed pieces that align with your curriculum, making for a perfect hands-on learning experience for larger groups.
Make Learning Fun with Hands-On Creativity
Whether you’re searching for an engaging after-school activity or an educational outing, a PYOP studio is an excellent choice for creative enrichment. Find a studio near you with our studio locator and discover what local studios have to offer to keep kids entertained, learning, and inspired!
