FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Do I need any experience with pottery or clay to join a workshop?
No experience needed. Our clay workshops are designed for complete beginners. We teach everything from centering clay on the pottery wheel to basic hand-building techniques. All abilities are welcome, including those with physical or cognitive challenges.
What is the difference between pottery wheel and hand-building workshops?
Pottery wheel workshops involve centering and shaping clay on a spinning wheel — it's meditative and requires focus. Hand-building uses only your hands and simple tools to create pinch pots, coil vessels, or sculptures — it's more tactile and flexible. Both are therapeutic and beginner-friendly.
Are your clay workshops suitable for people with dementia?
Yes. Our clay workshops are dementia-friendly. We use simple, sensory-focused approaches that don't require complex instructions or verbal communication. The tactile nature of clay is calming and engaging for people at all stages of dementia.
What age groups can participate in Mittika workshops?
We work with all ages: children (8+), teenagers, adults, and elderly participants. Sessions are adapted for age groups — for example, pottery wheel workshops are typically for ages 12+ while hand-building works for all ages from 8 upwards.
Do you provide all the materials for clay workshops?
Yes. We bring all materials: clay, pottery wheels (if applicable), hand-building tools, aprons, and cleanup supplies. Participants just need to wear comfortable clothing they don't mind getting a bit dirty.
How much do Mittika clay workshops cost?
Pricing varies by session type and group size. Corporate workshops start from £450 (90 min, up to 15 people). Care home sessions start from £350 (60-90 min, up to 12 residents). School workshops start from £400 (up to 20 students). Contact us for custom quotes.
What is included in the workshop price?
Workshop price includes: professional facilitator, all materials (clay, tools, aprons), pottery wheels (if applicable), setup and cleanup, post-cleanup, post-workshop follow-up resources, and travel within Greater London/South East. Additional travel costs may apply for other regions.
How do I book a clay workshop with Mittika?
Book a free 15-minute discovery call through our website. We'll discuss your group's needs, preferred dates, and workshop format. After the call, we'll send a customized proposal and booking form. Simple and straightforward.
What is your cancellation policy for workshops?
We require 7 days' notice for cancellations to receive a full refund. Cancellations with less than 7 days' notice incur a 50% fee. We understand emergencies happen — contact us and we'll work something out.
Do you offer discounts for multiple workshop bookings?
Yes. Book 3+ sessions and receive 10% off. Quarterly programmes (4 sessions) receive 15% off. Annual partnerships (12+ sessions) receive custom discounted pricing. Contact us to discuss volume discounts.
How does working with clay help with stress and anxiety?
Clay is naturally grounding. The tactile, sensory experience brings attention into the present moment, which calms the nervous system. The meditative focus required (especially on pottery wheels) quiets racing thoughts. Physical hand movements release stored tension.
Is clay therapy the same as art therapy?
No. Mittika workshops are clay wellbeing experiences, not clinical art therapy. We're not therapists — we're professional ceramicists and wellbeing facilitators who use clay for stress relief, grounding, and creative expression. No clinical diagnosis or therapy framework involved.
Can clay workshops help with burnout?
Yes. Clay workshops provide nervous system regulation — which burned-out people desperately need. The meditative focus, tactile grounding, and creative expression help downshift from chronic stress. Participants report feeling calmer and more present after sessions.
What makes pottery wheel work particularly therapeutic?
Centering clay on a spinning pottery wheel requires complete present-moment focus. Your mind can't wander to worries when your hands are actively working. The repetitive, meditative motion is naturally calming. Many describe it as 'moving meditation'.
Are your workshops trauma-informed?
Yes. We use trauma-aware facilitation, which means: consent-based participation (no pressure), psychological safety focus, sensory considerations for overwhelm, and understanding that healing isn't linear. Participants can opt-out or take breaks anytime.
