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Pottery pieces range from $5 – $80
Studio Fee – $10 per painter (includes paints, supplies, glazing & firing)
Pottery You Paint and Take Home
Paint Your Own Pottery in Show Low for families, friends, and creative outings with walk-in studio access
Finished pottery pieces are professionally glazed and kiln fired for long-lasting results that look dramatically different once fired, transforming matte painted surfaces into glossy, food-safe ceramic ware. Kittle's Art & Supply operates a paint your own pottery studio in Show Low where walk-in guests select from a variety of pottery pieces, apply underglazes using brushes and stencils, and return days later to collect their completed work. The studio fee includes paints, supplies, glazing, and firing, so the only decision involves choosing which blank piece to paint.
The experience works for all ages and skill levels, from toddlers painting small figurines to adults working on larger decorative projects or functional dinnerware. You paint directly onto bisque-fired pottery using water-based underglazes, which appear pastel and chalky until they undergo high-temperature kiln firing that fuses the color into the glaze layer.
Stop by during open studio hours to select a piece and start painting without an appointment.
How the Pottery Painting Process Works
You choose from small decorative items like ornaments and figurines up to larger bowls, mugs, platters, and serving dishes. After selecting a piece, you use brushes, sponges, or stencils to apply underglazes in layers, building color intensity with repeated coats. Staff provide technique tips for blending, detailing, and avoiding common mistakes like over-watering the glaze.
Once you finish painting, the piece remains at the studio for glazing and kiln firing, which takes about one week depending on kiln schedules. Firing transforms the matte underglaze into vibrant, glossy color and makes the pottery food-safe and dishwasher-durable. Colors shift during firing—blues deepen, yellows brighten, and layered colors blend in ways that can't be predicted exactly before firing.
The relaxed environment suits date nights, family outings, birthday celebrations, and casual creative time. Kittle's Art & Supply maintains a large studio space that accommodates individual walk-ins and private pottery painting parties for groups. Seasonal visitors and year-round residents use the studio as an indoor creative activity regardless of weather conditions.
Common Questions About Pottery Painting
Guests throughout Show Low and surrounding communities visit the studio for creative projects and social gatherings.
What does the studio fee cover?
The fee includes your choice of pottery piece, all paints and brushes, staff assistance, professional clear glazing, and kiln firing. You pay only for the piece you select and paint.
How long does it take to paint a piece?
Most guests spend one to two hours painting depending on the size and detail level of their project. You work at your own pace without time limits during open studio hours.
When can I pick up my finished pottery?
Pieces are ready for pickup approximately one week after painting, once they've been glazed and fired in the kiln. Staff notify you when your work is ready for collection.
Why do the colors look different before and after firing?
Underglazes appear chalky and pastel when applied but transform into vibrant, glossy colors during the high-temperature firing process. The heat fuses the pigment into the glaze, intensifying color and creating the shiny ceramic finish.
What types of pottery pieces are available to paint?
The studio stocks a rotating inventory ranging from small ornaments and mugs to large bowls, platters, and decorative items. Selection varies based on season and supplier availability, with new pieces arriving regularly.
Pop in and DIY anytime during open studio hours at Kittle's Art & Supply, where walk-in guests are welcome to begin painting without reservations. The studio provides everything needed for a creative outing in Show Low's welcoming art space.
1. Pick out your piece
2. Pick out your paints
3. Let Your Creativity Kick In
4. Leave the Final Glazing and Firing to Us
5. Ready for pickup in about a week.