POTTERY STUDIO

Igniting Creativity's pottery studio offers one-on-one guidance and small-group instruction. Our studio is a safe place to dig deep and nurture your inner creativity.

Started by art teacher Amy Roadman, Igniting Creativity brings creative experiences to the rural life of the beautiful Laurel Highlands. We are located just 12-15 minutes from Latrobe, Ligonier, and Donegal, PA.

467 Hoods Mill Road, Latrobe, PA  15650

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A pottery teacher working with two students

Are you ready to try something new?

Unwind from the chaos and discover a new way to relax.

Dive into a hands-on, screen-free experience that sparks creativity and brings calm. Join us for a pottery class and unlock your inner artist. Once you try it, you'll be hooked!

Centering Essentials: Building a Solid Wheel-Throwing Base

One-Time Class

Pottery Progression: A Skill-Building Workshop Series

Weekly & Bi-Weekly Ongoing Sessions

Hand-Built Pottery: An Ongoing Inspiring Adventure

Unique & Seasonal Topics

Young Potters: Hand-Building Classes for Children and Teens

Monthly Themed Classes

90-Minute Private & Semi-Private Lessons

Personalized Instruction

Shape Your Ideas: Open Studio Membership

For the Independent Potter

Centering Essentials: Building a Solid Wheel-Throwing Base

2 1/2 Hour Beginner's Class - The perfect date night, girls' night out, or a place to try something new.

This one-time class is perfect for anyone interested in exploring the world of pottery without a long-term commitment or trying it out before moving forward in our regular weekly or bi-weekly sessions. 

Under the guidance of an experienced instructor, you'll work on the pottery wheel, discovering how to properly mold your clay in a step-by-step manner. 

By the end of the class, you'll have experienced what it is like to create a small piece of pottery on your own. Working with clay on the pottery wheel can be challenging at first, but as you practice and gain more control over the process, you'll witness the transformation of a shapeless lump of clay into a beautifully crafted piece of art. 

Whether you decide to continue your pottery journey or simply cherish the memories of this class, the experience of molding clay into a tangible work of art will stay with you forever. So, come join us and discover the joy of pottery as you unleash your creativity on the wheel!

Make it a private event! Book all 4 spots in one of these classes or contact us to schedule a date and time that's convenient for you.

$65/person

Ages 16 and up

Wednesdays with instructor Cray Charlebois from 9:30am-Noon

or

Fridays with instructor Amy Roadman from 6-8:30pm

Friday, November 1
Wednesday, November 6
Wednesday, November 13
Friday, November 15
Wednesday, November 20
Friday, December 20
A person throwing a pot on a pottery wheel

Pottery Progression: A Skill-Building Workshop Series

Weekly Subscription-Based Pottery Wheel Classes

This subscription-based pottery wheel class is where you will be able to build your skills and create personalized projects at your own convenience. This workshop series is designed for those who may still consider themselves beginners but have experienced the wheel at least once before to understand the basics of centering and are ready to take their skills to the next level. This is also suited for intermediate-level potters who aren't quite ready for an independent option like our open studio membership.

With a flexible enrollment system, you can join and withdraw from the class at your convenience, and have access to all class materials and equipment during your enrollment period. Each class will focus on a different goal that you set for yourself. You will have the opportunity to work on projects that suit your interests and skill level, with guidance and support from the instructor to help you achieve your goals in this small class setting.

In Pottery Progression, you'll be part of a community of like-minded artists, and you'll have the opportunity to collaborate and share ideas with others in the class. With regular practice and support from your instructor, you'll be amazed at how much progress you can make over time.

This class meets for 2 1/2 hours once a week and includes access to all the equipment and materials you need to create your projects. Whether you're looking to build your skills as a hobbyist or as a professional artist, Pottery Progression will help you take your skills to the next level. Join us to see where your creativity can take you!

Join anytime there is an open wheel!

Evening Sessions: 6:00-8:30pm

Morning Session: 10am-12:30pm

$48/session

Ages 16 and up

Instructors:

Amy Roadman on Monday and Wednesday

Cray Charlebois on Thursday* and Friday

*Thursday wheel-thrown classes meet every other week or try a hybrid version and meet weekly where you hand-build on the off weeks.

Includes:

  • Individualized small-group instruction
  • Beginner to intermediate wheel-throwing personalized experiences 
  • Your choice of stoneware clay
  • Two firings (bisque and glaze)
  • Choice of underglaze and glaze finishes
  • Completed food-safe pieces
  • Additional open studio practice time after basic skills are mastered

Please note that this option is recommended for the individual who has experienced the wheel at least once before so that we can focus on the progression of their ideas.

BI-WEEKLY MONDAY * Session 1 * 6-8:30pm
BI-WEEKLY MONDAY * Session 2 * 6-8:30pm
BI-WEEKLY WEDNESDAY Sessions * 6-8:30pm
BI-WEEKLY THURSDAY Sessions * 6-8:30pm
WEEKLY THURSDAY HYBRID Sessions * 6-8:30pm
WEEKLY FRIDAY MORNING Sessions * 10am-12:30pm

 

If you are interested in a day that is full, please put yourself on the waiting list by emailing me at [email protected]   

As an opening becomes available you will be the first to know! 

Hand-Building Classes

Art of the Season: Decorative & Functional Clay Creations

Every Wednesday  *  12:30-2:30pm  *  Multigenerational Class  *  Instructor: Cray Charlebois

Register for one class at a time: $40 each

Purchase your choice of 4 classes: $38 each

Take all 6 classes: $36 each

November 6: Deck the Halls: Slab-Rolled Ornament Class

November 13: Seasonal Spread: Tree-Shaped Serving Platter

November 20: Plates with Personality: Underglaze Techniques for Snackware

December 4: Classic Candlesticks: Pottery for Home Décor

December 11: Gnome for the Holidays: Seasonal Gnome Sculpture

December 18: Seasonal Sparkle: Snowflake Plate Workshop

 

Join us on Wednesday afternoons for a cozy, creative journey through seasonal-themed pottery!

Our weekly hand-building classes are designed for all ages, making them perfect for families, friends, and individuals looking to create festive pottery pieces together.

Each week, we’ll explore a new project—from charming candle holders to unique ornaments and seasonal decor. You’ll learn a range of hand-building techniques, allowing you to shape, decorate, and personalize each creation.

Whether you're experienced with clay or just getting started, these classes offer a welcoming, relaxed environment for everyone to enjoy.

Celebrate the season and make lasting memories with pottery creations you’ll treasure year after year!

This is a multigenerational class option in which adults are permitted to bring a child or children ages 6 and up. *Please register individually.

Take just one class, mix and match, or make it a weekly hobby!

Art of the Season Registration - One Class
Art of the Season Registration - 4 Classes
Art of the Season Registration - 6 Classes

Hand-Built Pottery: An Ongoing Inspiring Adventure

Weekly and Bi-weekly Hand-Building Pottery Classes

This hand-building class is where you will be able to build your skills and create personalized projects on a schedule that works for you.

With a rolling enrollment system, you can join and withdraw from the class at your convenience, and have access to all materials and equipment during your enrollment period. Each session will focus on a different goal that you set for yourself. You will have the opportunity to work on projects that suit your interests and skill level, with guidance and support from our expert instructor to help you achieve your goals in this small class setting.

You'll be part of a community of like-minded artists, and you'll have the opportunity to collaborate and share ideas with others in the class. With regular practice and support from your instructor, you'll be amazed at how much progress you can make over time.

Join anytime, no need to wait for a set date with this option!

Morning Session: 10am-12:30pm

Evening Session: 6:00-8:30pm

$48/session

Ages 16 and up

Instructor: Cray Charlebois 

Includes:

  • Individualized small-group instruction
  • Beginner to intermediate personalized experiences 
  • Your choice of stoneware clay
  • Two firings (bisque and glaze)
  • Choice of underglaze and glaze finishes
  • Completed food-safe pieces
  • Additional open studio practice time after basic skills are mastered
WEEKLY THURSDAY MORNING Sessions
BI-WEEKLY THURSDAY EVENING Sessions

Young Potters: Hand-Building Classes for Children

Unlock Your Child's Creativity - One Clay Technique at a Time! 

Join us for a journey of artistic exploration through our kids' hand-building pottery class! 

 Each month we'll dive into the world of clay and learn the fundamentals of hand-building using techniques like pinch, coil, and slab.

Our classes are designed to reflect the magic of each season. Your child will create pottery projects inspired by the beauty and themes of the time of year. From spring blooms to winter wonderlands, every class offers a fresh and engaging experience.

Throughout the year, we'll focus on mastering various hand-building techniques. Whether it's crafting coil-built vases, sculpting with pinch pots, or constructing functional slabs, your child will develop a versatile set of pottery skills.

We believe in nurturing your child's artistic spirit. Our classes provide a supportive and encouraging environment where creativity knows no bounds. Your child will have the freedom to experiment with colors, textures, and shapes while bringing their unique visions to life in clay.

Our kids' hand-building pottery class is split into two sessions to accommodate separate age groups and abilities but does have a flexible age range to coordinate with your schedule.

Our experienced instructor is passionate about pottery and skilled at teaching children. We prioritize safety, fun, and learning in every class.

10:30am-12pm: Children's Session - Ages 6-12

1-3pm: Multigenerational Session - Adults are permitted to attend with a child or children ages 6 and up. *Please register individually. Children ages 6 and up are also welcome to attend without an adult. 

  • November 2 - Coil Christmas Trees
  • January 4 - Snowman Tray
  • February 1 - TBD
  • March 1 - TBD
  • April 5 - TBD
  • May 3 - TBD

$36/session

Instructor: Lauren Henschel

Includes:

  • Individualized small-group instruction
  • Beginner to intermediate hand-building personalized experiences 
  • Focus on specific techniques and themes each month
  • Mid-fired functional stoneware clay
  • Two firings (bisque and glaze)
  • Choice of underglaze and glaze finishes
  • Completed food-safe pieces
November 2: Ages 6-12 Morning Session
Christmas trees made out of clay
November 2: Multigenerational Afternoon Session
January 4: Ages 6-12 Morning Session
January 4: Multigenerational Afternoon Session

Teen Throwdown: Mastering the Pottery Wheel

2-Session Teen Class - for beginners or those who want more practice.

This class is perfect for anyone interested in exploring the world of pottery without a long-term commitment. 

Under the guidance of an experienced instructor, you'll work on the pottery wheel, discovering how to properly mold your clay in a step-by-step manner. 

By the end of the class, you'll have experienced what it is like to create a couple of small pieces of pottery on your own.  Working with clay on the pottery wheel may feel challenging at first, but with practice and increased control, you’ll watch as a simple lump of clay transforms into a beautifully crafted work of art.

Session one will be focused on building vessels on the wheel.

Session two will allow for time to trim and add surface decoration.

Two sessions to choose from!

November 16th & 23rd

December 7th & 14th

9:30-11:30am

$80/person

Ages 13-18

Instructor: Cray Charlebois

ois

Teen Registration - November
Teen Registration - December

Shape Your Ideas: Open Studio Membership

For the Independent Potter

 Our open studio membership is the perfect option for experienced potters who are looking for a space to practice their craft in a supportive environment. This membership is application-only, and we require applicants to have experience with throwing on the wheel and/or hand-building. Approval is contingent on a completed class, private lessons, or approval for participating based on prior experience. All open studio members must have a proven basic understanding of the ceramics process and agree to abide by all studio rules. As an open studio member, you will have access to our studio during open hours to work on your projects independently.

We understand that experienced potters do not require constant instruction, which is why we have a monitor on-site during open studio hours to ensure that the space is safe and functioning properly. However, please note that there will not be formal instruction provided during open studio time.

This membership provides an opportunity for you to work on your own projects at your own pace, while also being part of a community of like-minded potters. You will have access to all the necessary equipment, tools, and glazes in addition to your block of clay to create your own unique pieces.  Cozy up with a cup of tea or coffee, grab a snack from the snack bar, and settle into your creative process in our well-maintained space.

Please note that space is limited, and we are only accepting applications from experienced potters who are comfortable working independently. If you meet these requirements and are interested in joining our open studio membership, please fill out an application and we will be in contact within 24-48 hours.

Our current open studio hours:

  • Sundays from 10am-3pm
  • Tuesdays from 3:30-7:30pm
  • Weekdays by appointment

$100/25 lbs. of clay

Ages 18 and up

Includes:

  • Unlimited work time during open studio hours
  • 25 lbs. of stoneware clay
  • Two firings (bisque and glaze)
  • Choice of underglaze and glaze finishes
  • Completed food-safe pieces
Shape Your Ideas: Open Studio Membership APPLICATION - ONLY 2 SPOTS LEFT

Reach out if you have any questions by

emailing Amy Roadman at [email protected]

or text/call 724-572-7005.

90-Minute Private Pottery Lesson

 

By Appointment Only

Private Instruction $75/session

Semi-Private Instruction

2 students: $120/session

3 students: $135/session

Includes:

  • Individualized instruction
  • A deep dive into your trouble spots
  • Your choice of stoneware clay
  • Two firings (bisque and glaze)
  • Choice of underglaze and glaze finishes

PRACTICE MAKES IMPROVEMENT

 

Have you ever wanted to learn the art of wheel throwing? Look no further! With our 90-minute private lesson, you'll be on your way to creating functional forms or beautiful sculptural works of art in no time.

During your lesson, we'll work together to identify any problem areas and improve your skills, focusing on how to move forward to achieve even greater success behind the wheel. I'll help you to narrow down the specific steps you need to take in order to progress in your wheel-throwing adventure.

Not interested in wheel throwing? No problem! We'll explore other pottery techniques such as slab, pinch, or coil work together instead so you can find the technique that's right for you.

Our private lessons are by appointment only, so you can have the studio all to yourself and focus on your creativity without any distractions.

Whether you're a beginner or an experienced potter, we're here to help you hone your skills and create something truly amazing. 

BOOK A TIME * Please note that a registration form will be sent to you within 24 hours, which must be completed before your lesson is confirmed.

ARE OUR CREATIVE SERVICES RIGHT FOR YOU?

 

If you're looking for a fun, relaxing, and engaging way to tap into your creative potential, then you're in the right place. With my personalized approach and attention to detail, I'll help you achieve your artistic goals in a way that's both rewarding and enjoyable.

Whether you're looking for a new hobby, a way to relieve stress, or a way to connect with like-minded individuals, my creative services are here to help you unlock your full artistic potential.

You can be a complete newbie or have considerable experience to benefit from using this studio space.

Let me ignite your sense of creativity with a group class, ongoing work sessions, a private group event, or a private lesson.

An instructor at Igniting Creativity helping student with clay project
Founder, Amy Roadman, working with a student.

Hi,

I'm Amy

I’m Amy Roadman, a PreK-12 Certified Art Teacher with 20+ years of experience and the owner of Igniting Creativity LLC.

I'm a teacher bringing creative experiences to the rural life of the beautiful Laurel Highlands where the stress of your everyday grind is erased by the peaceful drive to the studio before you even get your hands dirty.

I believe art and creativity can be taught, that you don’t have to start with innate talent, but instead, a desire to create and practice. By providing opportunities that focus on the overall experience I have learned how to ease the pressure of creating and allow many people to tap into their creative side and find that it can be really rewarding to do so. 

As we expand we are bringing on other talented instructors with fine art degrees and years of experience teaching creative classes.

You will find Cray Charlebois instructing some of our adult classes.  She has an extensive teaching background and has expertise in this medium and technique.

Lauren Henschel from Hooktastic Designs has taken on our monthly kids' classes and has developed some amazing themed projects.

Help us to welcome them as we build this community!

"I was pleased beyond my expectations with my final product. I have always been a little hesitant to work with pottery. I thought it would be too difficult to manipulate and control. I learned a lot about the way clay works in a fun and encouraging atmosphere."

 
Donna

"Amy is a natural who was meant to be a teacher. She explains how things work in different ways until everyone understands and can implement the process.  Throwing is no easy task but she simplifies it to be manageable and enjoyable."

 
Lisa
A person rolling out a ball of clay
A woman holding up a clay pot
Pottery tools
A finished ceramic mug

Studio Details

Reach out if you have any other questions!

[email protected]

724-572-7005

Studio Location: 467 Hoods Mill Road, Latrobe, PA  15650

Amy Roadman: Owner & Wheel-Throwing Instructor

Cray Charlebois: Hand-Building and Wheel-Throwing Instructor

Lauren Henschel: Children's Class Instructor

Brooke Roadman: Camp Instructor

  • Wear casual clothing - clay is messy but washable
  • Leave your jewelry at home
  • Wear long hair tied back
  • Come with an open mind and a creative spirit  

Cancellation Policy:

We understand that circumstances may arise that prevent you from attending the class that you registered for. In the event that you need to cancel your registration, please notify us at least 48 hours before the start of the class.

  • If you cancel before the 48-hour deadline, we will issue a full refund of your registration fee.
  • If you cancel after the 48-hour deadline or fail to show up for the class there will be no refund issued.
  • For ongoing subscription classes only * If you are unable to attend class but do not want to forfeit your spot you will not be refunded but may schedule an extra 2 1/2 hours during open studio hours or by appointment to make up the time.

We appreciate your understanding of our cancellation policy. If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out to us.

Looking Ahead

The growth of this studio is all because of the amazing local community that we live in that is willing to try new things, get out of their comfort zone, and share creative moments with others.

I am beyond grateful for the support that we've seen and can't wait to build more of the ideas I have to make this a place where you feel welcome. 

We currently run our electric kiln to cone 6 using Standard Ceramic's 240G white clay with grog and 112 speckled brown clay. Both are excellent choices for their strong, durable, and food-safe qualities.

We will be adding a raku clay to the mix as we plan out our spring and summer schedule. 

Something new:

Raku firing is a unique and dramatic method of pottery firing that originated in Japan centuries ago and has since become a popular technique among potters worldwide. The word "raku" translates to "enjoyment," "ease," or "happiness" in Japanese, which reflects the spirit of spontaneity, unpredictability, and aesthetic pleasure associated with this firing technique.

Raku firing is known for its element of surprise and unpredictability, making each piece unique and visually captivating.

The studio sits on nearly 9 acres of land so what better way to celebrate a love of nature and a natural product?

If you are interested in raku firing techniques be sure to let us know so that you can be added to the waiting list!

Do you have any questions? Suggestions? Reach out!

As we grow and add more classes we want to hear from you.  What would you like to see?  What do you still need to know?