Getting Started
Classes or Membership
Firebox offers two paths into the studio. Classes provide structured instruction with a defined start and end. Membership provides ongoing, self-directed access for people ready to work safely and independently. Here's how they compare.
Side by Side
How Access Differs
Both paths provide access to Firebox equipment, materials systems, and firing services. The difference is how you access them, how much instruction surrounds your time, and which costs are included.
Swipe sideways to compare access options.
| Access | Students | Members |
|---|---|---|
| Format | Instructor-led cohorts, generally 6–10 participants depending on course format, with a defined start and end. | Ongoing, self-directed open-studio access — 24/7 with quiet hours 10 PM–6 AM. |
| Studio Access | Scheduled class sessions in Studios A or C, plus eligible adult-student practice time in Studio A when available. | Studio D is the dedicated member workspace. Studio A is also available when classes and other scheduled programs are not using it. |
| Entry | Individual access code for the duration of the class. | Individual access code for the duration of membership. |
| Instruction | Hands-on instruction, demonstrations, and feedback throughout the course. | Independent practice. Members may separately enroll in classes and workshops, and may apply to teach paid intensives or workshops. |
| Clay | Approved Firebox clay purchased separately for $25 per sealed 25-pound bag, plus applicable tax. No half bags. Compatible approved Firebox clay left from an earlier course may be used again. Outside clay is not permitted. | Firebox clay purchased for $25 per sealed 25-pound bag, or approved outside clay bodies after review and testing. No half bags. |
| Glazes | Standard studio glazes supplied or approved for the course, with application and use guidance. | House glaze library, plus personal glazes after documented testing and studio approval. |
| Storage | Half-size shelf (2 ft × 18 in) for the duration of the course. | Dedicated shelf (4 ft × 18 in × 12 in, approximately 6 cu ft) for active work and materials. |
| Equipment | Classroom wheels, shared handbuilding and slab equipment, basic tools, pails, sponges, and cleaning supplies provided. | Member wheels in Studio D, plus Studio A wheels when classes and other scheduled programs are not using the room. Shared studio equipment is provided; members bring their own hand tools. |
| Firing | Standard-format adult courses include bisque and glaze firing for up to 20 pounds of bisqueware per student across skill levels. Large-scale and specialist courses publish their own terms. | Standard firing is charged separately at $3 per pound of bisqueware. Dedicated loads, custom schedules, and advanced firing arrangements require approval and may carry additional charges. |
| Pricing | Tuition varies by course length, format, instructor, and included resources. Current prices appear on the Classes and registration pages. | $215/mo month-to-month, or $210/$205/$200 with 3/6/12-month commitments. Billed monthly. |
| Eligibility | Open by experience level listed for each course. | Application reviewed for readiness to work safely and independently. Firebox may require a class, orientation, or skills assessment. |
Not sure yet? Most people start with a class. Completing a Foundations semester at Firebox is one of the clearest paths to a membership application — but it is not required. If you have independent studio experience elsewhere, you can apply for membership directly.
Which Is Right for You
Choose Your Path
The right answer depends on where you are in your practice and what kind of access you need.
Start With a Class
You're new to clay, returning after a break, want regular instruction, or are still developing the habits and judgment needed for independent studio work.
Course lengths and capacities vary by format, with small cohorts, demonstrations, and hands-on instruction throughout. You'll learn Firebox's equipment, materials systems, glazes, and firing workflow before working independently.
Browse ClassesApply for Membership
You can manage your own workflow, clean safely, use shared equipment responsibly, and work without continuous instruction. You want ongoing access to make work on your own schedule.
Members get 24/7 studio access, dedicated workspace in Studio D, expanded materials options, gallery eligibility, and the opportunity to propose and teach paid intensives and workshops.
View Membership