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Frequently Asked Questions

Paint, Glaze & Fire was established in 1997 as the first paint your own pottery studio in Kansas City. Over the years, we’ve heard so many great questions. This frequently-asked questions page serves to answer many of the common questions. If you have a question that’s not on this list – or if you need additional information about our products and services – don’t hesitate to call our studio at (913) 661-2529 or send an e-mail to [email protected].

How does the ceramic pottery painting process work?

  1. Painting ceramic pottery is fun and easy. Simply browse our  shelves full of pottery and look through our idea books,  painted pieces, stamps and/or stencils for a little inspiration.
  2. Then choose your paint colors. Paint, have fun, relax,  be creative.
  3. After glazing and firing, pottery pieces are usually ready  within a week. We always call you when your project is  complete and ready to be picked up.

How does a canvas or raw clay project work?

You can walk in and paint a canvas any time! See our Canvas Painting page for more information. If you and the family are interested in hand building with raw clay, see our Raw Clay page for details (sorry, we have no pottery wheel at this time).

Do you have a separate party room?

No, we do not have a separate room for parties and special events at the Paint, Glaze & Fire studio in Overland Park. If you make reservations for a party or special event at the studio, we will make certain that the tables are set up with pottery and paints (or materials that are specific to your event) and ready when your party host arrives. For kids’ birthday party events with gifts, the kids can open presents in the front area of the studio (where there is a rug and a couple of comfy chairs). After the pottery painting is complete, we can then clear away the materials and set up the table with party treats. We also have a refrigerator if you need to store an ice cream cake or drinks.

What if I don't know anything about working with pottery or clay or paint?

At Paint, Glaze & Fire, we’re always excited to help our studio guests learn the basics of pottery painting, or working with raw clay. If you would like to learn the basics of hand building with raw clay, we recommend a class to make sure that your creation is a success. See our Classes and Camps page for details or simply call the studio at (913) 661-2529 to register. Also! The studio is typically less busy during the weekdays – which makes it easier for us to provide more attention to first timers.

How do the Glass Fusion projects work?

Much the same as the ceramic pottery pieces. Simply choose a glass project, select your pre-cut decorative glass pieces, and get creative. You may want to learn how to cut your own glass. For children under 12 years old, adult supervision is recommended. Glass fusion firing schedules vary. If your glass project is slumped into a shape, it will take two firings and a little longer time. We always call you when your project is complete and ready to be picked up.

How much does it cost?

Paint Your Own Pottery – There is a studio fee that covers the paint, glaze, firing, and all supplies and tools. It is a flat fee per person (not per piece painted). In other words, you can paint as many pieces as you want for one studio fee. The Adult Studio Fee is $8.00, Child Studio Fee (18 & younger) is $6.00. Be sure to check our calendar for daily studio fee specials. Pottery prices range from $5 to $50 or more. However, the average piece usually falls in the $10 – $25 range. Glass Fusion Projects – Pricing for glass fusion projects is all-inclusive. Projects start at $20.00.

What if I'm not creative?

We’ve heard that a million times! The good news is that no artistic ability is required – only your willingness to have fun, relax, and find that inner artist we know is in there! There are many tools (our inspiration wall, books, stencils, stamps, painted samples) to help ignite your creative spirit. You might want to start with something small, like a mug or plate and see how the process works before tackling a large platter or heavily-detailed piece. So, give it a try and paint your own pottery, Kansas City!

May we bring in food and drinks?

If you are hosting an adults-only group event at the studio – such as a Girls’ Night Out – you are absolutely welcome to bring your own wine or champagne, along with your own wine glasses and corkscrew (no hard liquor, please). Note: by law, we are not able to furnish glasses used to consume adult beverages.

Are the paints washable?

Yes! The pottery paints are completely washable, non-toxic and lead free.  They are perfectly safe for people of all ages.  Occasionally, some one will choose to use acrylic paint.  These paints are not washable.

What do I do if I painted a piece a long time ago and never picked up the finished piece?

If it has been more than 30 days, we cannot guarantee that we still have your piece. After 30 days we may donate, sell, or discard your piece. If you need more time, just let us know and we will be happy to accommodate you.

How long does it take to paint something?

That varies, depending on the age of the person painting and complexity of the project. On average, you should allow 1.5 – 2 hours to complete your project. If you do not finish your project, you may return one time without paying an additional studio fee. We just ask that you take the project with you and return at your convenience to complete it.

Do I need a reservation?

Reservations are always recommended and are the only way we can guarantee you a table. However, walk-in painters are welcome space permitting! More often than not we can accommodate them. Before walking in feel free to call ahead to see if we have openings.

To make a reservation, call us at 913-661-2529. You may also make a reservation online for most of our events.  For groups of 6 or more we recommend you make reservations 48 hours in advance. Groups of 6 or more can save $2 off the studio fee per painter Friday-Sunday by paying a $25 deposit with your registration. If you have a reservation your table will be held for 15 minutes. If you’re running late, please call and we’ll do our best to accommodate the change.

Can I eat off of these dishes? Are they dishwasher and microwave safe?

YES! We also offer glass fusion. And, with an appointment, canvas painting parties and raw clay projects (hand building) classes.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express, Cash, and Checks.