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THE CLAY TRAIL!

Where your clay journey begins!

Curious about pottery? Whether you’re trying it for the very first time or ready to build your skills, The Clay Trail Pottery Studio offers hands-on clay experiences designed for every level—right in the heart of downtown Rutherfordton.

Choose your path:

Mini Hike
A one-time pottery experience on the wheel—perfect for beginners, date nights, girls’ nights, or checking pottery off your bucket list. Come play, get a little messy, and see what it’s all about.

 

The Muddy Trail
A 5-week beginner wheel course designed to build confidence and skill. You’ll learn the fundamentals of wheel throwing step-by-step and leave with pieces you’re proud of.

Clay Excursion
Not sure where to start? This well-rounded experience introduces you to both hand-building and wheel throwing, plus glazing—so you can discover what you love most and explore it further.

 

Workshops
Themed, creative sessions that change throughout the year. These are perfect for a fun night out, seasonal projects, or adding unique, functional pieces to your collection—no long-term commitment needed.

Clay Your Way
Have something specific in mind? This custom, by-appointment experience lets you create a project tailored to you. Whether it’s a specific piece, a private group idea, or something you’ve been dreaming up, we’ll help bring it to life (with guidance and approval to ensure success).

Perfect for:
• Private sessions
• Personalized projects
• Small groups wanting something unique

No experience needed—just bring your curiosity. We’ll guide you the rest of the way.

STORE LOCATIONS

207 N Main St.

&

211 N Main St.

Rutherfordton, NC 28139

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Studio Hours

*Gallery Hours

Wednesday & Thursday:

11:30 AM – 7:30 PM
Friday & Saturday:

11:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Gallery hours may close early if there are no scheduled classes or low traffic. We recommend checking ahead or messaging before visiting later in the day.

Class Times (By Reservation)

Clay experiences are offered in scheduled time blocks:

• 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
• 2:30 PM – 5:30 PM
• 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM

Class times may vary slightly depending on workshops or seasonal scheduling.

*(Unless there is a planned class or event)

Upcoming Events

  • White Houses
    White Houses
    8 days to the event
    Sat, Jul 11
    211 N Main St
    Create 3 White Houses for great homemade seasonal decor!
  • Tree Luminary
    Tree Luminary
    15 days to the event
    Sat, Jul 18
    211 N Main St
    Come create your own tree luminary! Step by step instructions are given, so no experience needed!!
  • Christmas in July Clay Experience
    Christmas in July Clay Experience
    22 days to the event
    Sat, Jul 25
    The Clay Trail: Hand Building Studio
    Santa is on vacation... so YOU get to be the elves this year! Start creating your handmade holiday magic early!
  • Melted Snowman Platter
    Melted Snowman Platter
    27 days to the event
    Thu, Jul 30
    211 N Main St
    I'm melting!!! We are because this heat, so come create a melted snowman platter that's perfect for entertaining! Couldn't find a cuter one at TJ Maxx if you tried! 😂
  • Ornament Making
    Ornament Making
    28 days to the event
    Fri, Jul 31
    211 N Main St
    Create delightful ornaments- 10 to be exact! Embrace the spirit of Christmas or be more general like your favorite hobby!
  • Spooky Luminary
    Spooky Luminary
    29 days to the event
    Sat, Aug 01
    211 N Main St
    Pick between the Jack O' Lantern, Frankenstein or the black cat!

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ABOUT US

The Clay Trail community pottery studio has beginner classes, trial classes and a lot of fun workshops to choose from!

It is owned by Britney Gibson. She fell in love with clay in college at Mars Hill University where she was the studio assistant for her work study. Learning all the ends and outs of a working studio.

She owns Dirty Jeans Pottery, which you will find in our gallery.

We want to build a pottery community that brings people together. A community of potters that inspire and support each other.

Up close image of Britney's (the owner) hands while throwing a bowl on the pottery wheel. This process is pulling up the wall.
Shot glasses for glaze testing

CONTACT US

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