Shoulder Cat Studio

Friday Pottery Date Night - 2025
2025-02-21 - 2025-12-25 | Shoulder Cat Studio, 3112 N Peary St, Arlington, VA, 22207, United States
Note: This is an animal-friendly studio. While cleaning is regularly done, there will most likely be allergens present. Pets are welcomed with permission only.
For date night, bring a companion for a fun and relaxed 2 hour pottery demonstration (3 hours for four people). During date night, participants will get to try their hand at wheel throwing, handbuilding or slipcasting, the choice is yours. There is no pressure to make a piece and the ability to make 1-2 pieces to keep at the end of the session. This workshop is well-suited for beginners who are new to the pottery. The instructor will help start and finish pieces.
The class includes clay, oxides, glaze, and firings. There are general pottery supplies for use in the studio. An apron and towel will be provided, though you can bring your own.
A maximum of two couples, or four people can be booked per session, so feel free to bring along some friends. Please only purchase one ticket per couple/two couples. The price for the different tiers is inclusive of all participants. Session dates can be selected during checkout. Times will be determined during a follow up email. Note, dates may need to be adjusted based on availability, but if a mutually acceptable date cannot be determined, we will refund your purchase.
If there are pieces you would like to keep, the instructor will clean up and glaze those pieces. Finished pieces will be available to pick up within 3 weeks after the date night session. More information will be provided as needed,
Please contact us if you have questions or need accommodations.
SLIDING SCALE PRICING
Sliding scale pricing is how we balance the equity scales and we use it to make ceramics education accessible and affordable to all. There are four tiers for pricing. When signing up for this class, please pay what feels right to you and your current finances. This is a trust based system, only you will know what feels comfortable and possible. BIPOC and LGBTQIA2S+ are encouraged to pay the Solidarity and Equity Tiers.
Full-price Tier – This is the actual cost for date night.
Solidarity Tier – This is a moderately discounted cost for date night.
Equity Tier – This is a further discounted cost for date night.
Pay-it-Forward Tier – This is a moderately higher cost for date night. This tier helps us continue to offer sliding scale pricing as well as offer low cost workshops.

Kiln Firing Service: L&L E18M-3 Kiln December 2025
2025-12-01 00:00 - 2025-12-23 23:59 (America/New_York) | Shoulder Cat Studio, 3112 N Peary St, Arlington, VA, 22207, United States
NOTE: Due to the holidays, there is an increase in firing requests. We are unable to expedite firings, so please drop off as soon as possible. Turnaround times may increase to 2-3 weeks rather than 1-2 weeks. Take this into account when purchasing a kiln ticket. December firings will not have a guarantee of being done prior to major holidays.
This listing is to book a kiln firing during the month of December. Tickets will open on December 1st and close on December 23rd for drop offs. Pickups continue through the end of the month. You may drop off your items for firing between the drop-off and pickup dates during our open studio hours. Please note these times are subject to change, so please check our hours on our website before arriving for dropoff and pickup.
To book the kiln, you will purchase a kiln ticket for a fee of $8*, which will be applied to your final amount due. Only one ticket is needed per drop off and you may drop off pieces for bisque, glaze, or both. There is no limit for the number of pieces you drop off, but if your pieces fill a full kiln, or multiple kiln loads, this will take time to fire, and will adjust the time frame for pickup. Final kiln firing fees based on the space your pieces take up firing will be assessed during or shortly after drop-off. You must approve the fees prior to firing and will be sent an invoice when your pieces are ready for pickup.
Note, bisque fires take up to 3 days from loading to unloading, while glaze fires take 2 days from loading to unloading. We only fire when the kiln can be regularly monitored for safety, so approximately two firings occur a week, but it can be as few as once a week.
The kiln information is as follows:
L&L E18M-3 Kiln Measurements:

Inside Dimensions: 16.50″ Diameter x 22.50″ High (41.91 cm Diameter x 57.15 cm High)
Outside Dimensions (including stand, kiln controller, etc.): 28.00″ Wide x 30.00″ Deep x 60″ High (71.12 cm Wide x 76.2 cm Deep x 152.4 cm High)
Temperature Rating: Cone 10

More information about the kiln can be found here.
Kiln Firing Fees*:
For reference, a half shelf can hold approximately 3 mugs with a 4″ diameter or 2 medium bowls with a 6″ diameter. A full shelf can hold around 6 mugs or 4 bowls.
For each cone 04 bisque and cone 6 glaze fire

$8 per half shelf (15”x7.5”), $10 per half shelf if piece exceeds 8” in height*
$14 per shelf (15”x15”), $16 per shelf if piece exceeds 8” in height*
$23 for half kiln, includes two full shelves with a combined total height of 12″ including shelves
$45 for full kiln (required for custom firing schedules or non-standard firing temps of cone 04 and 6, under cone 6)*

Special firings (e.g. luster, crystal glaze, single fire, cone 7-10, large kiln, etc.)

$55 for full kiln*

Please read the kiln service agreement page before booking this service and fill out this kiln firing service form prior to dropping off your pieces for firing. Both a kiln ticket and the information on the kiln firing service form are required in order for us to fire your pottery. We reserve the right to decline firings for any reason.
*Kiln fees will increased around 15-20% in January 2026 to accommodate increased energy costs.

Morning Raku Workshop Sun., December 21, 2025 10:00 am-1:00 pm
2025-12-21 10:00 - 13:00 | Shoulder Cat Studio, 3112 N Peary St, Arlington, VA, 22207, United States
Note: This session will occur primarily outdoors. The session may be postponed or cancelled due to weather.
Learn about raku in this workshop, where participants can explore the artistic possibilities of raku pottery.
The workshop typically starts with a short introduction to the history and cultural significance of raku pottery, you will then be taken through the steps of the Western Raku firing process.
We will specifically cover horsehair, obvara, and glazed raku. Please bring up to 5 bisqued pieces for this session that do not exceed 6″ in diameter and 10″ in height. If you do not have any pieces for this session, premade items are available for purchase ($5-10 per piece). Please make a note in the additional comments section during checkout that you would like to use premade pieces to reserve them.
The workshop will be led by experienced raku potters who will provide guidance and feedback as participants work on their pieces. At the end of the workshop, participants will have created unique that they can take home and display. Note: due to the nature of western style raku pieces, they are not food safe. They are best used as decorative pieces as they are fired around heavy metals, and can leach into food and drink.
IMPORTANT: Raku is a fun, community driven process and requires following instructions closely to be safe. During raku, you can be exposed to hot pottery and equipment, fire, and smoke from reduction chambers, kilns, and more. Heavy gloves and safety gear is provided, as you are participating. Failure to wear safety gear and follow instructions can result in serious injuries for yourself, other students, and instructors. Please exercise caution and wait until the instructors inform you to complete any tasks. Wear clothes you don’t mind getting messy and smelly.
By registering for this class, you are acknowledging these risks and agree to hold Shoulder Cat Studio and all instructors harmless from any injuries and harm that occur during and as a result of this workshop.
SLIDING SCALE PRICING

Sliding scale pricing is how we balance the equity scales and we use it to make ceramics education accessible and affordable to all. There are four tiers for pricing. When signing up for this class, please pay what feels right to you and your current finances. This is a trust based system, only you will know what feels comfortable and possible. BIPOC and LGBTQIA2S+ are encouraged to pay the Solidarity and Equity Tiers.

Full-price Tier – This is the actual cost for the workshop.
Solidarity Tier – This is a moderately discounted cost for the workshop.
Equity Tier – This is a further discounted cost for the workshop.
Pay-it-Forward Tier – This is a moderately higher cost for the workshop. This tier helps us continue to offer sliding scale pricing as well as offer low cost workshops.

Afternoon Raku Workshop Sun., December 21, 2025 3:00 pm-6:00 pm
2025-12-21 15:00 - 18:00 | Shoulder Cat Studio, 3112 N Peary St, Arlington, VA, 22207, United States
Note: This session will occur primarily outdoors. The session may be postponed or cancelled due to weather.
Learn about raku in this workshop, where participants can explore the artistic possibilities of raku pottery.
The workshop typically starts with a short introduction to the history and cultural significance of raku pottery, You will then be taken through the steps of the Western Raku firing process.
We will specifically cover horsehair, glazed, and aluminum sagger raku. Please bring up to 5 bisqued pieces for this session. If you do not have any pieces for this session, premade items are available for purchase ($5-10 per piece). Please make a note in the additional comments section during checkout that you would like to use premade pieces to reserve them.
The workshop will be led by experienced raku potters who will provide guidance and feedback as participants work on their pieces. At the end of the workshop, participants will have created unique that they can take home and display. Note: due to the nature of western style raku pieces, they are not food safe. They are best used as decorative pieces as they are fired around heavy metals, and can leach into food and drink.
IMPORTANT: Raku is a fun, community driven process and requires following instructions closely to be safe. During raku, you can be exposed to hot pottery and equipment, fire, and smoke from reduction chambers, kilns, and more. Heavy gloves and safety gear is provided, as you are participating. Failure to wear safety gear and follow instructions can result in serious injuries for yourself, other students, and instructors. Please exercise caution and wait until the instructors inform you to complete any tasks. Wear clothes you don’t mind getting messy and smelly.
By registering for this class, you are acknowledging these risks and agree to hold Shoulder Cat Studio and all instructors harmless from any injuries and harm that occur during and as a result of this workshop.
SLIDING SCALE PRICING

Sliding scale pricing is how we balance the equity scales and we use it to make ceramics education accessible and affordable to all. There are four tiers for pricing. When signing up for this class, please pay what feels right to you and your current finances. This is a trust based system, only you will know what feels comfortable and possible. BIPOC and LGBTQIA2S+ are encouraged to pay the Solidarity and Equity Tiers.

Full-price Tier – This is the actual cost for the workshop.
Solidarity Tier – This is a moderately discounted cost for the workshop.
Equity Tier – This is a further discounted cost for the workshop.
Pay-it-Forward Tier – This is a moderately higher cost for the workshop. This tier helps us continue to offer sliding scale pricing as well as offer low cost workshops.

Friday Pottery Date Night/Custom Workshop - 2026
2026-01-01 - 2026-12-31 | Shoulder Cat Studio, 3112 N Peary St, Arlington, VA, 22207, United States
Note: This is an animal-friendly studio. While cleaning is regularly done, there will most likely be allergens present. Pets are welcomed with permission only.
Availability: We are currently booked on every Friday through May and most of June. Our only available date in June is now June 12 followed by July 10th as our next available date.
For “date night”, bring a companion for a fun and relaxed 2 hour pottery demonstration (3 hours for four people). During your session, you will get to try your hand at wheel throwing, handbuilding or slipcasting, the choice is yours. We will work together to customize your session. There is no pressure to make a piece and you will have the ability to make 1-2 pieces to keep at the end of the session. This workshop is well-suited for beginners who are new to the pottery. The instructor will help start and finish pieces.
The class includes clay, oxides, glaze, and firings. There are general pottery supplies for use in the studio. An apron and towel will be provided, though you can bring your own.
A maximum of two couples, or four people can be booked per session, so feel free to bring along some friends. Please only purchase one ticket per pair/two pair. The price for the different tiers is inclusive of all participants. Session dates can be selected during checkout, though exact date and time will be determined during a follow up email. Note, dates may need to be adjusted based on availability, other bookings, and other factors, but if a mutually acceptable date cannot be determined, we will refund your purchase.
If there are pieces you would like to keep, the instructor will clean up and glaze those pieces. Finished pieces will be available to pick up within 3 weeks after the date night session. More information will be provided as needed,
Please contact us if you have questions or need accommodations.
SLIDING SCALE PRICING
Sliding scale pricing is how we balance the equity scales and we use it to make ceramics education accessible and affordable to all. There are four tiers for pricing. When signing up for this class, please pay what feels right to you and your current finances. This is a trust based system, only you will know what feels comfortable and possible. BIPOC and LGBTQIA2S+ are encouraged to pay the Solidarity and Equity Tiers.
Full-price Tier – This is the actual cost for date night.
Solidarity Tier – This is a moderately discounted cost for date night.
Equity Tier – This is a further discounted cost for date night.
Pay-it-Forward Tier – This is a moderately higher cost for date night. This tier helps us continue to offer sliding scale pricing as well as offer low cost workshops.

Kiln Firing Service: L&L E18M-3 Kiln January 2026
2026-01-01 00:00 - 2026-01-31 23:59 | Shoulder Cat Studio, 3112 N Peary St, Arlington, VA, 22207, United States
NOTE: Prices have been increased between 15-20% to accommodate increases in energy, maintenance, and repair costs.
This listing is to book a kiln firing during the month of January. Tickets will open on January 1st and close on January 20th for drop offs. Pickups continue through the end of the month. You may drop off your items for firing between the drop-off and pickup dates during our open studio hours. Please note these times are subject to change, so please check our hours on our website before arriving for dropoff and pickup.
To book the kiln, you will purchase a kiln ticket for a fee of $10, which will be applied to your final amount due. Only one ticket is needed per drop off and you may drop off pieces for bisque, glaze, or both. There is no limit for the number of pieces you drop off, but if your pieces fill a full kiln, or multiple kiln loads, this will take time to fire, and will adjust the time frame for pickup. Final kiln firing fees based on the space your pieces take up during their firing will be assessed during or shortly after drop-off. Once you approve the fees prior to firing and will be sent an invoice when your pieces are ready for pickup.
Note, bisque fires take up to 3 days from loading to unloading, while glaze fires take 2 days from loading to unloading. We only fire when the kiln can be regularly monitored for safety, so approximately two firings occur a week, but it can be as few as once a week.
The kiln information is as follows:
L&L E18M-3 Kiln Measurements:

Inside Dimensions: 16.50″ Diameter x 22.50″ High (41.91 cm Diameter x 57.15 cm High)
Outside Dimensions (including stand, kiln controller, etc.): 28.00″ Wide x 30.00″ Deep x 60″ High (71.12 cm Wide x 76.2 cm Deep x 152.4 cm High)
Temperature Rating: Cone 10

More information about the kiln can be found here.
Kiln Firing Fees:
For reference, a half shelf can hold approximately 3 mugs with a 4″ diameter or 2 medium bowls with a 6″ diameter. A full shelf can hold around 6 mugs or 4 bowls.
For each cone 04 bisque and cone 6 glaze fire

$10 per half shelf (15”x7.5”), $12 per half shelf if piece exceeds 6” in height
$17 per shelf (15”x15”), $19 per shelf if piece exceeds 6” in height
$28 for half kiln, includes two full shelves with a combined total height of 12″ including shelves
$54 for full kiln (required for custom firing schedules or non-standard firing temps of cone 04 and 6, under cone 6), includes four full shelves with a total of 22″ including shelves (about 20″ for pottery pieces)

Special firings (e.g. luster, crystal glaze, single fire, cone 7-10, large kiln, etc.)

$65 for full kiln – we may on occasion have availability of half kiln rentals ($35), otherwise a full kiln is required even if you do not have enough for a full kiln.

Please read the kiln service agreement page before booking this service and fill out this kiln firing service form prior to dropping off your pieces for firing. Both a kiln ticket and the information on the kiln firing service form are required in order for us to fire your pottery. We reserve the right to decline firings for any reason.

Classes and Workshop Schedule for 2026
2026-01-01 00:00 - 2026-12-31 00:00 | Shoulder Cat Studio, 3112 N Peary St, Arlington, VA, 22207, United States
Thank you for your interest in our classes and workshops. Find our schedule for the year below; dates are subject to change. Sign up for our newsletter to get notice of advanced registration. Have a workshop idea? Send us an email!
January 31st – November 6th: Date Night/ Custom Workshops on-demand
February – March: Winter/Spring Workshops, dates and topics TBD
March 15th – April 11th: Spring Throwing and Handbuilding Classes, evening and weekend hours
June 6th – June 27th: Summer Throwing and Handbuilding Classes, evening and weekend hours
July – August: Summer workshops, dates and topics TBD
October 16th – November 6th: Fall Throwing and Handbuilding Classes, evening hours only
December – January: Winter Workshops, dates and topics TBD

Kiln Firing Service: L&L E18M-3 Kiln February 2026
2026-02-01 00:00 - 2026-02-28 23:59 | Shoulder Cat Studio, 3112 N Peary St, Arlington, VA, 22207, United States
This listing is to book a kiln firing during the month of February. Tickets will open for purchase on February 1st and close on February 17th for drop offs. Pickups continue through the end of the month. You may drop off your items for firing between the drop-off and pickup dates during our open studio hours. Please note these times are subject to change, so please check our hours on our website before arriving for dropoff and pickup.
To book the kiln, you will purchase a kiln ticket for a fee of $10, which will be applied to your final amount due. Only one ticket is needed per drop off and you may drop off pieces for bisque, glaze, or both. There is no limit for the number of pieces you drop off, but if your pieces fill a full kiln, or multiple kiln loads, this will take time to fire, and will adjust the time frame for pickup. Final kiln firing fees based on the space your pieces take up during their firing will be assessed during or shortly after drop-off. Once you approve the fees prior to firing and will be sent an invoice when your pieces are ready for pickup.
Note, bisque fires take up to 3 days from loading to unloading, while glaze fires take 2 days from loading to unloading. We only fire when the kiln can be regularly monitored for safety, so approximately two firings occur a week, but it can be as few as once a week.
The kiln information is as follows:
L&L E18M-3 Kiln Measurements:

Inside Dimensions: 16.50″ Diameter x 22.50″ High (41.91 cm Diameter x 57.15 cm High)
Outside Dimensions (including stand, kiln controller, etc.): 28.00″ Wide x 30.00″ Deep x 60″ High (71.12 cm Wide x 76.2 cm Deep x 152.4 cm High)
Temperature Rating: Cone 10

More information about the kiln can be found here.
Kiln Firing Fees:
For reference, a half shelf can hold approximately 3 mugs with a 4″ diameter or 2 medium bowls with a 6″ diameter. A full shelf can hold around 6 mugs or 4 bowls.
For each cone 04 bisque and cone 6 glaze fire

$10 per half shelf (15”x7.5”), $12 per half shelf if piece exceeds 6” in height
$17 per shelf (15”x15”), $19 per shelf if piece exceeds 6” in height
$28 for half kiln, includes two full shelves with a combined total height of 12″ including shelves
$54 for full kiln (required for custom firing schedules or non-standard firing temps of cone 04 and 6, under cone 6), includes four full shelves with a total of 22″ including shelves (about 20″ for pottery pieces)

Special firings (e.g. luster, crystal glaze, single fire, cone 7-10, large kiln, etc.)

$65 for full kiln – we may on occasion have availability of half kiln rentals ($35), otherwise a full kiln is required even if you do not have enough for a full kiln.

Please read the kiln service agreement page before booking this service and fill out this kiln firing service form prior to dropping off your pieces for firing. Both a kiln ticket and the information on the kiln firing service form are required in order for us to fire your pottery. We reserve the right to decline firings for any reason.

Kiln Firing Service: L&L E18M-3 Kiln March 2026
2026-03-01 00:00 - 2026-03-31 23:59 | Shoulder Cat Studio, 3112 N Peary St, Arlington, VA, 22207, United States
This listing is to book a kiln firing during the month of March. Tickets will open for purchase on March 1st and close on March 17th for drop offs. Pickups continue through the end of the month. You may drop off your items for firing between the drop-off and pickup dates during our open studio hours. Please note these times are subject to change, so please check our hours on our website before arriving for dropoff and pickup.
To book the kiln, you will purchase a kiln ticket for a fee of $10, which will be applied to your final amount due. Only one ticket is needed per drop off and you may drop off pieces for bisque, glaze, or both. There is no limit for the number of pieces you drop off, but if your pieces fill a full kiln, or multiple kiln loads, this will take time to fire, and will adjust the time frame for pickup. Final kiln firing fees based on the space your pieces take up during their firing will be assessed during or shortly after drop-off. Once you approve the fees prior to firing and will be sent an invoice when your pieces are ready for pickup.
Note, bisque fires take up to 3 days from loading to unloading, while glaze fires take 2 days from loading to unloading. We only fire when the kiln can be regularly monitored for safety, so approximately two firings occur a week, but it can be as few as once a week.
The kiln information is as follows:
L&L E18M-3 Kiln Measurements:

Inside Dimensions: 16.50″ Diameter x 22.50″ High (41.91 cm Diameter x 57.15 cm High)
Outside Dimensions (including stand, kiln controller, etc.): 28.00″ Wide x 30.00″ Deep x 60″ High (71.12 cm Wide x 76.2 cm Deep x 152.4 cm High)
Temperature Rating: Cone 10

More information about the kiln can be found here.
Kiln Firing Fees:
For reference, a half shelf can hold approximately 3 mugs with a 4″ diameter or 2 medium bowls with a 6″ diameter. A full shelf can hold around 6 mugs or 4 bowls.
For each cone 04 bisque and cone 6 glaze fire

$10 per half shelf (15”x7.5”), $12 per half shelf if piece exceeds 6” in height
$17 per shelf (15”x15”), $19 per shelf if piece exceeds 6” in height
$28 for half kiln, includes two full shelves with a combined total height of 12″ including shelves
$54 for full kiln (required for custom firing schedules or non-standard firing temps of cone 04 and 6, under cone 6), includes four full shelves with a total of 22″ including shelves (about 20″ for pottery pieces)

Special firings (e.g. luster, crystal glaze, single fire, cone 7-10, large kiln, etc.)

$65 for full kiln – we may on occasion have availability of half kiln rentals ($35), otherwise a full kiln is required even if you do not have enough for a full kiln.

Please read the kiln service agreement page before booking this service and fill out this kiln firing service form prior to dropping off your pieces for firing. Both a kiln ticket and the information on the kiln firing service form are required in order for us to fire your pottery. We reserve the right to decline firings for any reason.

Throwing on the Pottery Wheel Tues., March 17, 2026 - April 7, 2026 6:30 pm-9:30 pm
2026-03-17 18:30 - 2026-04-07 21:30 | Shoulder Cat Studio, 3112 N Peary St, Arlington, VA, 22207, United States
Note: This is a pet-friendly studio. While cleaning is regularly done, there will most likely be allergens present. Pets are welcomed with permission only.
During this 4-week pottery class, students will work on throwing pottery on the wheel. The focus of these sessions will be to help you on your skills whether you are new to the wheel, a beginner looking to build skills, or an intermediate potter looking to improve your technique. Pottery terminology, skills, and glazing techniques will be discussed.
The class fee includes 10 pounds of clay, oxides, glaze, firings, and storage space.
There are general pottery supplies for use in the studio. Personal tool kits are also available to purchase for $15. Apron and towels are no longer provided for classes, so please bring your own. Additional clay (recycled clay is free), firings, special lusters, underglaze transfers and overglaze decals can be purchased for a fee.
A maximum of 4 students will be in the class, allowing for plenty of hands-on guidance as needed. You must be able to attend all four sessions as no make up sessions will be offered. Once the class is full, a waitlist will open.
Sample 3 hour, 4-week schedule:

Week 1: Review studio best practices. Demo and practice cylinders/bowls on the wheel.
Week 2: Practice and demo trimming on the wheel.
Week 3: Continue practice and finish all pieces from week 1 and 2. Start discussing glaze and practice on test tile. Pieces loaded for bisque firing.
Week 4: Demo and glaze bisque pieces. Glazed pieces loaded into kiln for glaze firing.

Finished pieces will be available for pickup 2-3 weeks after week 4. You will be contacted to arrange pickup.Please contact us if you have questions or need accommodations.
SLIDING SCALE PRICING
Sliding scale pricing is how we balance the equity scales and we use it to make ceramics education accessible and affordable to all. There are four tiers for pricing. When signing up for this class, please pay what feels right to you and your current finances. This is a trust based system, only you will know what feels comfortable and possible. BIPOC and LGBTQIA2S+ are encouraged to pay the Solidarity and Equity Tiers.
Full-price Tier – This is the actual cost for the class.
Solidarity Tier – This is a moderately discounted cost for the class.
Equity Tier – This is a further discounted cost for the class.
Pay-it-Forward Tier – This is a moderately higher cost for the class. This tier helps us continue to offer sliding scale pricing as well as offer low cost workshops.

Throwing and Handbuilding Sat., March 21, 2026 - April 11, 2026 10:00 am-1:00 pm
2026-03-21 10:00 - 2026-04-11 13:00 | Shoulder Cat Studio, 3112 N Peary St, Arlington, VA, 22207, United States
Note: This is a pet-friendly studio. While cleaning is regularly done, there will most likely be allergens present. Pets are welcomed with permission only.
During this 4-week pottery class, students will work on throwing pottery on the wheel as well as handbuild with a variety of techniques. While this class is best for advanced beginners and intermediate potters, beginners to either the wheel or handbuilding will also benefit from the class as there are only 4 students per class. Pottery terminology, skills, and glazing techniques will be discussed.
The class fee includes 15 pounds of clay, oxides, glaze, firings, and storage space.
There are general pottery supplies for use in the studio. Personal tool kits are also available to purchase for $15. Apron and towels are no longer provided for classes, so please bring your own. Additional clay (recycled clay is free), firings, special lusters, underglaze transfers and overglaze decals can be purchased for a fee.
A maximum of 4 students will be in the class, allowing for plenty of hands-on guidance as needed. You must be able to attend all four sessions as no make up sessions will be offered. Once the class is full, a waitlist will open.
Sample 3 hour, 4-week schedule:

Week 1: Review studio best practices. Demo and practice cylinders/bowls on the wheel as well as coil and slab building.
Week 2: Practice and demo trimming on the wheel and continue practicing coil and slab building.
Week 3: Continue practice and finish all pieces from week 1 and 2. Pieces will be loaded into kiln for bisque firing.
Week 4: Demo and glaze bisque pieces. Glazed pieces loaded into kiln for glaze firing.

Finished pieces will be available for pickup 2-3 weeks after week 4. You will be contacted to arrange pickup.Please contact us if you have questions or need accommodations.
SLIDING SCALE PRICING
Sliding scale pricing is how we balance the equity scales and we use it to make ceramics education accessible and affordable to all. There are four tiers for pricing. When signing up for this class, please pay what feels right to you and your current finances. This is a trust based system, only you will know what feels comfortable and possible. BIPOC and LGBTQIA2S+ are encouraged to pay the Solidarity and Equity Tiers.
Full-price Tier – This is the actual cost for the class.
Solidarity Tier – This is a moderately discounted cost for the class.
Equity Tier – This is a further discounted cost for the class.
Pay-it-Forward Tier – This is a moderately higher cost for the class. This tier helps us continue to offer sliding scale pricing as well as offer low cost workshops.

Throwing on the Pottery Wheel Sat., March 21, 2026 - April 11, 2026 3:30 pm-6:30 pm
2026-03-21 15:30 - 2026-04-11 18:30 | Shoulder Cat Studio, 3112 N Peary St, Arlington, VA, 22207, United States

Handbuilding Pottery Mon., March 23, 2026 - April 13, 2026 6:30 pm-9:30 pm
2026-03-23 18:30 - 2026-04-13 21:30 | Shoulder Cat Studio, 3112 N Peary St, Arlington, VA, 22207, United States
Update: due to the storm on March 16th, this class has been rescheduled to March 23rd to April 13th.
Note: This is a pet-friendly studio. While cleaning is regularly done, there will most likely be allergens present. Pets are welcomed with permission only.
During this 4-week pottery class, students will build pottery with a variety of handbuilding techniques. The focus of these sessions will be to help you on your skills whether you are new to pottery, a wheel thrower looking to hand build, or an intermediate potter looking to improve your techniques. Pottery terminology, skills, and glazing techniques will be discussed.
The class fee includes 10 pounds of clay, oxides, glaze, firings, and storage space.
There are general pottery supplies for use in the studio. Personal tool kits are also available to purchase for $15. Apron and towels are no longer provided for classes, so please bring your own. Additional clay (recycled clay is free), firings, special lusters, underglaze transfers and overglaze decals can be purchased for a fee.
A maximum of 4 students will be in the class, allowing for plenty of hands-on guidance as needed. You must be able to attend all four sessions as no make up sessions will be offered. Once the class is full, a waitlist will open.
Sample 3 hour, 4-week schedule:

Week 1: Review studio best practices. Demo and practice coil and slab building.
Week 2: Practice coil and slab building.
Week 3: Finish all pieces from week 1-2. Pieces will be loaded into kiln for bisque firing.
Week 4: Demo and glaze bisque pieces. Glazed pieces loaded into kiln for glaze firing.

Finished pieces will be available for pickup 2-3 weeks after week 4. You will be contacted to arrange pickup. Please contact us if you have questions or need accommodations.
SLIDING SCALE PRICING
Sliding scale pricing is how we balance the equity scales and we use it to make ceramics education accessible and affordable to all. There are four tiers for pricing. When signing up for this class, please pay what feels right to you and your current finances. This is a trust based system, only you will know what feels comfortable and possible. BIPOC and LGBTQIA2S+ are encouraged to pay the Solidarity and Equity Tiers.
Full-price Tier – This is the actual cost for the class.
Solidarity Tier – This is a moderately discounted cost for the class.
Equity Tier – This is a further discounted cost for the class.
Pay-it-Forward Tier – This is a moderately higher cost for the class. This tier helps us continue to offer sliding scale pricing as well as offer low cost workshops.

Kiln Firing Service: L&L E18M-3 Kiln April 2026
2026-04-01 00:00 - 2026-04-30 23:59 | Shoulder Cat Studio, 3112 N Peary St, Arlington, VA, 22207, United States
This listing is to book a kiln firing during the month of April. Tickets will open for purchase on April 1st. Drop offs must be made by April 19th to ensure they are fired by the end of the month. Drop off can be done during our studio hours. Please note these times are subject to change, so please check our hours on our website before arriving. Remote drop-offs and pickups are available with advanced notice.
To book the kiln, you will purchase a kiln ticket for a fee of $10, which will be applied to your final amount due. Only one ticket is needed per drop off and you may drop off pieces for bisque, glaze, or both. There is no limit for the number of pieces you drop off, but if your pieces fill a full kiln, or multiple kiln loads, this will take time to fire, and will adjust the time frame for pickup. Final kiln firing fees based on the space your pieces take up during their firing will be assessed during or shortly after drop-off. Once you approve the fees prior to firing and will be sent an invoice when your pieces are ready for pickup.
Note, bisque fires take up to 3 days from loading to unloading, while glaze fires take 2 days from loading to unloading. We only fire when the kiln can be regularly monitored for safety, so approximately two firings occur a week, but it can be as few as once a week.
The kiln information is as follows:
L&L E18M-3 Kiln Measurements:

Inside Dimensions: 16.50″ Diameter x 22.50″ High (41.91 cm Diameter x 57.15 cm High)
Outside Dimensions (including stand, kiln controller, etc.): 28.00″ Wide x 30.00″ Deep x 60″ High (71.12 cm Wide x 76.2 cm Deep x 152.4 cm High)
Temperature Rating: Cone 10

More information about the kiln can be found here.
Kiln Firing Fees:
For reference, a half shelf can hold approximately 3 mugs with a 4″ diameter or 2 medium bowls with a 6″ diameter. A full shelf can hold around 6 mugs or 4 bowls.
For each cone 04 bisque and cone 6 glaze fire

$10 per half shelf (15”x7.5”), $12 per half shelf if piece exceeds 6” in height
$17 per shelf (15”x15”), $19 per shelf if piece exceeds 6” in height
$28 for half kiln, includes two full shelves with a combined total height of 12″ including shelves
$54 for full kiln (required for custom firing schedules or non-standard firing temps of cone 04 and 6, under cone 6), includes four full shelves with a total of 22″ including shelves (about 20″ for pottery pieces)

Special firings (e.g. luster, crystal glaze, single fire, cone 7-10, large kiln, etc.)

$65 for full kiln – we may on occasion have availability of half kiln rentals ($35), otherwise a full kiln is required even if you do not have enough for a full kiln.

Please read the kiln service agreement page before booking this service and fill out this kiln firing service form prior to dropping off your pieces for firing. Both a kiln ticket and the information on the kiln firing service form are required in order for us to fire your pottery. We reserve the right to decline firings for any reason.

Kiln Firing Service: L&L E18M-3 Kiln May 2026
2026-05-01 00:00 - 2026-05-30 23:59 | Shoulder Cat Studio, 3112 N Peary St, Arlington, VA, 22207, United States
This listing is to book a kiln firing during the month of May. Tickets will open for purchase on May 1st. Drop offs must be made by May 19th to ensure they are fired by the end of the month. Drop off can be done during our studio hours. Please note these times are subject to change, so please check our hours on our website before arriving. Remote drop-offs and pickups are available with advanced notice.
To book the kiln, you will purchase a kiln ticket for a fee of $10, which will be applied to your final amount due. Only one ticket is needed per drop off and you may drop off pieces for bisque, glaze, or both. There is no limit for the number of pieces you drop off, but if your pieces fill a full kiln, or multiple kiln loads, this will take time to fire, and will adjust the time frame for pickup. Final kiln firing fees based on the space your pieces take up during their firing will be assessed during or shortly after drop-off. Once you approve the fees prior to firing and will be sent an invoice when your pieces are ready for pickup.
Note, bisque fires take up to 3 days from loading to unloading, while glaze fires take 2 days from loading to unloading. We only fire when the kiln can be regularly monitored for safety, so approximately two firings occur a week, but it can be as few as once a week.
The kiln information is as follows:
L&L E18M-3 Kiln Measurements:

Inside Dimensions: 16.50″ Diameter x 22.50″ High (41.91 cm Diameter x 57.15 cm High)
Outside Dimensions (including stand, kiln controller, etc.): 28.00″ Wide x 30.00″ Deep x 60″ High (71.12 cm Wide x 76.2 cm Deep x 152.4 cm High)
Temperature Rating: Cone 10

More information about the kiln can be found here.
Kiln Firing Fees:
For reference, a half shelf can hold approximately 3 mugs with a 4″ diameter or 2 medium bowls with a 6″ diameter. A full shelf can hold around 6 mugs or 4 bowls.
For each cone 04 bisque and cone 6 glaze fire

$10 per half shelf (15”x7.5”), $12 per half shelf if piece exceeds 6” in height
$17 per shelf (15”x15”), $19 per shelf if piece exceeds 6” in height
$28 for half kiln, includes two full shelves with a combined total height of 12″ including shelves
$54 for full kiln (required for custom firing schedules or non-standard firing temps of cone 04 and 6, under cone 6), includes four full shelves with a total of 22″ including shelves (about 20″ for pottery pieces)

Special firings (e.g. luster, crystal glaze, single fire, cone 7-10, large kiln, etc.)

$65 for full kiln – we may on occasion have availability of half kiln rentals ($35), otherwise a full kiln is required even if you do not have enough for a full kiln.

Please read the kiln service agreement page before booking this service and fill out this kiln firing service form prior to dropping off your pieces for firing. Both a kiln ticket and the information on the kiln firing service form are required in order for us to fire your pottery. We reserve the right to decline firings for any reason.

Spring Catalog Paint-Your-Own Pottery Sat., May 9, 2026 1:00 PM-2:00 PM
2026-05-09 13:00 - 14:00 | VA
NOTE: You will not get to walk away with a finished piece the day of the workshop. Pieces will be fired offsite, glazed in a food-safe, microwave-safe, and dishwasher friendly clear glaze, and will be available after May 13th for pickup at our studio in Arlington, VA or delivered to you (additional fee via Uber Courier).
What to Expect
Come join us for this special one-hour session at Spring Catalog! You’ll get to paint your own piece—whether it’s a bowl, mug, or plate.
Bring your creation to life in this glazing session, where we’ll guide you through the meditative process of glazing with intention and care. The instructor will help you sketch out a design and paint your piece using your favorite colors from our carefully chosen premium underglazes. Plus, you can add some illustrative flair with decals. After the workshop, your piece will be dipped in a clear glaze and fired in our kiln to give it a smooth, long-lasting, and shiny finish.
Sign up by choosing your piece from the tickets list. Additional vessels will be available for purchase during the workshop. This workshop includes free admission to the Spring Catalog market (just show your ticket).

Kiln Firing Service: L&L E18M-3 Kiln June 2026
2026-06-01 00:00 - 2026-06-30 23:59 | Shoulder Cat Studio, 3112 N Peary St, Arlington, VA, 22207, United States
This listing is to book a kiln firing during the month of June. Tickets will open for purchase on June 1st. Drop offs must be made by June 16th to ensure they are fired by the end of the month. Drop off can be done during our studio hours. Please note these times are subject to change, so please check our hours on our website before arriving. Remote drop-offs and pickups are available with advanced notice.
To book the kiln, you will purchase a kiln ticket for a fee of $10, which will be applied to your final amount due. Only one ticket is needed per drop off and you may drop off pieces for bisque, glaze, or both. There is no limit for the number of pieces you drop off, but if your pieces fill a full kiln, or multiple kiln loads, this will take time to fire, and will adjust the time frame for pickup. Final kiln firing fees based on the space your pieces take up during their firing will be assessed during or shortly after drop-off. Once you approve the fees prior to firing and will be sent an invoice when your pieces are ready for pickup.
Note, bisque fires take up to 3 days from loading to unloading, while glaze fires take 2 days from loading to unloading. We only fire when the kiln can be regularly monitored for safety, so approximately two firings occur a week, but it can be as few as once a week.
The kiln information is as follows:
L&L E18M-3 Kiln Measurements:

Inside Dimensions: 16.50″ Diameter x 22.50″ High (41.91 cm Diameter x 57.15 cm High)
Outside Dimensions (including stand, kiln controller, etc.): 28.00″ Wide x 30.00″ Deep x 60″ High (71.12 cm Wide x 76.2 cm Deep x 152.4 cm High)
Temperature Rating: Cone 10

More information about the kiln can be found here.
Kiln Firing Fees:
For reference, a half shelf can hold approximately 3 mugs with a 4″ diameter or 2 medium bowls with a 6″ diameter. A full shelf can hold around 6 mugs or 4 bowls.
For each cone 04 bisque and cone 6 glaze fire

$10 per half shelf (15”x7.5”), $12 per half shelf if piece exceeds 6” in height
$17 per shelf (15”x15”), $19 per shelf if piece exceeds 6” in height
$28 for half kiln, includes two full shelves with a combined total height of 12″ including shelves
$54 for full kiln (required for custom firing schedules or non-standard firing temps of cone 04 and 6, under cone 6), includes four full shelves with a total of 22″ including shelves (about 20″ for pottery pieces)

Special firings (e.g. luster, crystal glaze, single fire, cone 7-10, large kiln, etc.)

$65 for full kiln – we may on occasion have availability of half kiln rentals ($35), otherwise a full kiln is required even if you do not have enough for a full kiln.

Please read the kiln service agreement page before booking this service and fill out this kiln firing service form prior to dropping off your pieces for firing. Both a kiln ticket and the information on the kiln firing service form are required in order for us to fire your pottery. We reserve the right to decline firings for any reason.

Handbuilding Pottery Mon., June 8, 2026 - June 29, 2026 6:30 pm-9:30 pm
2026-06-08 18:30 - 2026-06-29 21:30 | Shoulder Cat Studio, 3112 N Peary St, Arlington, VA, 22207, United States
Note: This is a pet-friendly studio. While cleaning is regularly done, there will most likely be allergens present. Pets are welcomed with permission only.
During this 4-week pottery class, students will build pottery with a variety of handbuilding techniques. The focus of these sessions will be to help you on your skills whether you are new to pottery, a wheel thrower looking to hand build, or an intermediate potter looking to improve your techniques. Pottery terminology, skills, and glazing techniques will be discussed.
The class fee includes 10 pounds of clay, oxides, glaze, firings, and storage space.
There are general pottery supplies for use in the studio. Personal tool kits are also available to purchase for $15. Apron and towels are no longer provided for classes, so please bring your own. Additional clay (recycled clay is free), firings, special lusters, underglaze transfers and overglaze decals can be purchased for a fee.
A maximum of 4 students will be in the class, allowing for plenty of hands-on guidance as needed. You must be able to attend all four sessions as no make up sessions will be offered. Once the class is full, a waitlist will open.
Sample 3 hour, 4-week schedule:

Week 1: Review studio best practices. Demo and practice coil and slab building.
Week 2: Practice coil and slab building.
Week 3: Finish all pieces from week 1-2. Pieces will be loaded into kiln for bisque firing.
Week 4: Demo and glaze bisque pieces. Glazed pieces loaded into kiln for glaze firing.

Finished pieces will be available for pickup 2-3 weeks after week 4. You will be contacted to arrange pickup. Please contact us if you have questions or need accommodations.
SLIDING SCALE PRICING
Sliding scale pricing is how we balance the equity scales and we use it to make ceramics education accessible and affordable to all. There are four tiers for pricing. When signing up for this class, please pay what feels right to you and your current finances. This is a trust based system, only you will know what feels comfortable and possible. BIPOC and LGBTQIA2S+ are encouraged to pay the Solidarity and Equity Tiers.
Full-price Tier – This is the actual cost for the class.
Solidarity Tier – This is a moderately discounted cost for the class.
Equity Tier – This is a further discounted cost for the class.
Pay-it-Forward Tier – This is a moderately higher cost for the class. This tier helps us continue to offer sliding scale pricing as well as offer low cost workshops.

Throwing on the Pottery Wheel Tues., June 9, 2026 - June 30, 2026 6:30 pm-9:30 pm
2026-06-09 18:30 - 2026-06-30 21:30 | Shoulder Cat Studio, 3112 N Peary St, Arlington, VA, 22207, United States

Advanced Pottery Wheel Fri., June 19, 2026 - June 26, 2026 6:30 pm-9:30 pm
2026-06-19 18:30 - 2026-06-26 21:30 | Shoulder Cat Studio, 3112 N Peary St, Arlington, VA, 22207, United States
Note: This is a pet-friendly studio. While cleaning is regularly done, there will most likely be allergens present. Pets are welcomed with permission only.
During this 2-week pottery workshop, students will work on throwing pottery on the wheel. The focus of these sessions will be to help you improve your pottery wheel technique through practice and critique.
The class fee includes unlimited recycled clay. As this is an intensive, you will most likely not keep any pieces, however, you may keep up to two pieces, with bisque firing included. Glaze and glaze firing is additional.
There are general pottery supplies for use in the studio. Personal tool kits are also available to purchase for $15. Apron and towels are no longer provided for classes, so please bring your own.
A maximum of 4 students will be in the class, allowing for plenty of hands-on guidance as needed. You must be able to attend both sessions as no make up sessions will be offered. Once the class is full, a waitlist will open.
Sample 3 hour schedule for two weeks:
Day 1

6:30-7:00: Review studio best practices and prep clay.
7:00-8:20: Practice throwing as many cylinders/bowls on the wheel as possible.
8:20-9:00: Cut open all pieces and critique.
9:00-9:30: Clean studio.

Day 2

6:30-7:00: Practice wedging clay from previous week and prep clay.
7:00-8:20: Practice throwing as many cylinders/bowls on the wheel as possible.
8:20-9:00: Cut open all pieces and critique – you are welcome to save two pieces from this session.
9:00-9:30: Clean studio.

Any finished pieces will be available for pickup 2-3 weeks after class ends. You will be contacted to arrange pickup. Delivery is available for a fee, Please contact us if you have questions or need accommodations.
SLIDING SCALE PRICING
Sliding scale pricing is how we balance the equity scales and we use it to make ceramics education accessible and affordable to all. There are four tiers for pricing. When signing up for this class, please pay what feels right to you and your current finances. This is a trust based system, only you will know what feels comfortable and possible. BIPOC and LGBTQIA2S+ are encouraged to pay the Solidarity and Equity Tiers.
Full-price Tier – This is the actual cost for the class.
Solidarity Tier – This is a moderately discounted cost for the class.
Equity Tier – This is a further discounted cost for the class.
Pay-it-Forward Tier – This is a moderately higher cost for the class. This tier helps us continue to offer sliding scale pricing as well as offer low cost workshops.

Glaze Techniques Workshop Sat., June 20, 2026 10:00 am-1:00 pm
2026-06-20 10:00 - 13:00 | Shoulder Cat Studio, 3112 N Peary St, Arlington, VA, 22207, United States
NOTE: You will not get to walk away with a finished piece the day of the workshop. Pieces will be fired after the workshop and will be available for pickup at our studio within 2 weeks. Pieces can be delivered for a fee.
During this three-hour workshop, participants will learn about different glazing techniques that go beyond combining glazes. Using stencils, a bit of glaze knowledge, special brushes, and common every day tools, we will create unique finishes on your pieces. Popular techniques such as creating and controlling drippy glazes, colorways like galaxy, peacock, and frozen pond, and more will be covered.
You can bring up to 3 bisqued pieces, preferably at least one vertical piece and one flat piece for this session. We do ask that they do not exceed 6″ in diameter and 10″ in height. If you do not have any pieces for this session, premade items are available for purchase ($5-10 per piece).
SLIDING SCALE PRICING

Sliding scale pricing is how we balance the equity scales and we use it to make ceramics education accessible and affordable to all. There are four tiers for pricing. When signing up for this class, please pay what feels right to you and your current finances. This is a trust based system, only you will know what feels comfortable and possible. BIPOC and LGBTQIA2S+ are encouraged to pay the Solidarity and Equity Tiers.

Full-price Tier – This is the actual cost for the workshop.
Solidarity Tier – This is a moderately discounted cost for the workshop.
Equity Tier – This is a further discounted cost for the workshop.
Pay-it-Forward Tier – This is a moderately higher cost for the workshop. This tier helps us continue to offer sliding scale pricing as well as offer low cost workshops.

Glaze Techniques Workshop Sat., June 20, 2026 2:30 pm-5:30 pm
2026-06-20 14:30 - 17:30 | Shoulder Cat Studio, 3112 N Peary St, Arlington, VA, 22207, United States

Underglazes and Overglazes Workshop Sat., June 27, 2026 10:00 am-1:00 pm
2026-06-27 10:00 - 13:00 | Shoulder Cat Studio, 3112 N Peary St, Arlington, VA, 22207, United States
NOTE: You will not get to walk away with a finished piece the day of the workshop. Pieces will be fired after the workshop and will be available for pickup at our studio within 2 weeks. Pieces can be delivered for a fee.
During this three-hour workshop, participants will learn the differences between underglazes and overglaze, when to use each, and how to fire them. We will explore underglaze brands, underglaze transfers, overglaze types, and overglaze transfers. The class comes with access to underglazes, underglaze transfer samples for practice and each participant will get to choose one single color transfer. Additional transfers and multicolor transfers will are available for purchase ($7-12 each sheet). For overglazes, participants will get to practice with mother-of-pearl luster. Due to the cost of gold luster, use of these will only be demonstrated. If you would like to use gold, please contact us to go over how to purchase your own bottle. Overglaze transfers are available for purchase ($8-18).
You can bring 2 bisqued pieces for underglaze work and one plain glazed piece (e.g. glazed in one single color) for overglaze. We do ask that they do not exceed 6″ in diameter and 10″ in height. If you do not have any pieces for this session, premade items are available for purchase ($5-10 per piece).
SLIDING SCALE PRICING

Sliding scale pricing is how we balance the equity scales and we use it to make ceramics education accessible and affordable to all. There are four tiers for pricing. When signing up for this class, please pay what feels right to you and your current finances. This is a trust based system, only you will know what feels comfortable and possible. BIPOC and LGBTQIA2S+ are encouraged to pay the Solidarity and Equity Tiers.

Full-price Tier – This is the actual cost for the workshop.
Solidarity Tier – This is a moderately discounted cost for the workshop.
Equity Tier – This is a further discounted cost for the workshop.
Pay-it-Forward Tier – This is a moderately higher cost for the workshop. This tier helps us continue to offer sliding scale pricing as well as offer low cost workshops.

Underglazes and Overglazes Workshop Sat., June 27, 2026 2:30 pm-5:30 pm
2026-06-27 14:30 - 17:30 | Shoulder Cat Studio, 3112 N Peary St, Arlington, VA, 22207, United States
