Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to Pearl & Fern Pottery Supplies & Studio. Whether you're shopping for supplies, booking your first pottery class, or looking for a creative space to call your own, we've answered some of our most frequently asked questions below.
General Information
Where are you located?
We're located at Unit 111 – 3310 Carrington Road, West Kelowna, BC, conveniently situated just off Highway 97. Our store and studio are located upstairs.
What are your business hours?
Tuesday–Saturday: 10:00 AM–5:30 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM–3:30 PM
Monday: Closed
Studio members enjoy 24/7 access, including outside regular retail hours.
What does Pearl & Fern offer?
We're a full-service pottery supply store and teaching studio offering pottery supplies, classes, 24/7 studio memberships, private events, pottery equipment, kiln services, and our own line of innovative pottery tools.
Do I need pottery experience to visit or take a class?
Not at all. We welcome everyone, from complete beginners to professional ceramic artists.
Do you sell gift cards?
Yes. Gift cards are available online and in-store and can be used toward eligible pottery supplies, classes, and other Pearl & Fern purchases.
Can I purchase handmade pottery?
Yes. We carry a selection of handmade pottery, including pieces created by local artists and our studio community. Availability varies.
How can I contact you?
Email info@pearlandfern.ca, call 778-795-0099, or visit us during regular business hours.
Pottery Classes & Workshops
What pottery classes do you offer?
We offer introductory wheel throwing and handbuilding, five-week pottery courses, intermediate classes, children's programs, homeschool classes, private lessons, and limited-edition specialty workshops.
Do I need experience to take a pottery class?
No. Our introductory classes are designed specifically for beginners, and our instructors guide you through every step.
What's the difference between wheel throwing and handbuilding?
Wheel throwing uses a pottery wheel to shape clay into forms such as bowls and mugs. Handbuilding uses your hands and simple tools to create pottery without a wheel.
How long are your classes?
Most introductory classes are two hours. We also offer five-week courses, private lessons, and specialty workshops of varying lengths.
What's included in the class price?
Everything you need, including clay, tools, equipment, instruction, glazing, and firing. Aprons are also provided.
How do I register for a class?
All public classes and workshops can be booked directly through our website. Registration and payment are required to secure your space.
Can I book a class for someone else?
Absolutely. Pottery classes make wonderful gifts. You can register someone directly or purchase a gift card so they can choose their preferred experience.
What should I wear to class?
Wear comfortable clothes you don't mind getting a little muddy. We recommend short fingernails, closed-toe shoes, and tying back long hair. Aprons are provided.
Can I attend with long fingernails?
You can, but long nails can make working with clay, particularly wheel throwing, more challenging. Short nails are strongly recommended.
Can I bring food or drinks?
Non-alcoholic drinks are welcome in designated areas. Food arrangements for private events should be discussed with our team in advance.
How many pottery pieces will I make?
This depends on the class, project, and your experience. Your instructor will explain what you can expect to create during your session.
Can I take my pottery home the same day?
No. Your pottery needs time to dry, be fired, glazed, and fired again. Most class pieces are ready for pickup approximately 3–4 weeks after your class.
Will my finished pottery be food-safe?
Functional pottery pieces are generally finished using food-safe glazes and appropriate firing methods. Decorative or specialty pieces may not be suitable for food use.
Will my pottery look exactly like the example?
Every handmade piece is unique. Variations in shape, size, colour, and glaze results are part of the pottery process.
What happens if my pottery breaks during firing?
Ceramics can occasionally crack, warp, or break during drying and firing. While we take great care with every piece, successful firing cannot be guaranteed.
Do you offer advanced pottery classes?
Yes. We offer opportunities to build on your existing skills through intermediate courses, specialty workshops, and technique-focused instruction.
Can I attend just one class instead of enrolling in a course?
Absolutely. Our introductory and limited-edition workshops are ideal for anyone wanting a one-time pottery experience.
Class Cancellation & Rescheduling Policy
What is your class cancellation policy?
Our cancellation policy applies to pottery classes and workshops:
10 days or more before class: Full refund or complimentary rescheduling.
48 hours to 9 days before class: Non-refundable, but one complimentary reschedule is available.
Less than 48 hours before class: Non-refundable, with no rescheduling.
No-shows: Non-refundable, with no rescheduling.
All rescheduling requests are subject to availability.
How do I cancel or reschedule my class?
Email info@pearlandfern.ca with your name, booking information, and scheduled class date. Requests must be received within the applicable cancellation timeframe.
Can I reschedule my class more than once?
We offer one complimentary reschedule per booking, subject to availability. Additional changes are not guaranteed.
What if I'm sick or have an emergency?
Please contact us as soon as possible. Our standard cancellation policy applies, although exceptional circumstances may be reviewed individually.
What if Pearl & Fern cancels my class?
If we need to cancel a class, you'll be offered a full refund or the opportunity to reschedule at no additional charge.
Can I receive a refund if I miss a class in my five-week course?
Missed individual sessions are generally non-refundable. Please contact us if you know you'll be absent so we can discuss your circumstances.
Does the cancellation policy apply to private events?
Private events and group bookings may have additional booking conditions. Please review the terms provided when confirming your event.
All cancellation terms are subject to applicable consumer protection laws.
Children's & Youth Pottery Classes
Do you offer pottery classes for children?
Yes. We offer children's pottery classes, birthday parties, homeschool programs, and youth-focused creative experiences.
What ages can participate?
Handbuilding experiences are available for children as young as five. Wheel throwing is generally available for ages 12 and older, with some private instruction options for younger participants.
Do you offer children's birthday parties?
Yes. We offer private pottery birthday parties with hands-on instruction, materials, glazing, and firing included.
Do parents need to stay during children's classes?
Requirements vary depending on the child's age and the program. Please review the individual class details or contact us before booking.
Do you offer homeschool pottery programs?
Yes. Our homeschool programs combine creativity, hands-on learning, and pottery techniques in a welcoming educational environment.
Do you accept homeschool or autism funding?
We can work with eligible homeschool and autism funding programs. Contact us to discuss the documentation and arrangements required.
Do you offer after-school pottery classes?
Yes. We offer youth pottery programs, including after-school classes. Check our current schedule for availability.
Private Classes & Group Events
Can I book a private pottery class?
Absolutely. We offer private pottery experiences for individuals, couples, families, friends, and groups.
Do you offer corporate team-building events?
Yes. Our pottery experiences are popular for corporate team-building, staff appreciation, holiday parties, and workplace celebrations.
Can we book a birthday or bachelorette party?
Of course. We host birthdays, bachelorette parties, family celebrations, and other special occasions.
How many people can attend a private event?
Capacity depends on the activity. We can accommodate up to eight participants for wheel throwing, 12 for handbuilding, and larger groups through combined experiences.
Can our group try both wheel throwing and handbuilding?
Yes. For suitable group sizes, we can arrange a combined experience where participants have the opportunity to try both techniques.
How much do private classes cost?
Pricing depends on the experience and group size. Standard private group classes start at $90 per person, with a minimum of four participants.
Can we bring food or drinks to our event?
Non-alcoholic beverages are welcome. Please discuss food arrangements with us before your event so we can ensure everything works with the studio activities.
How do I book a private event?
Contact info@pearlandfern.ca with your preferred date, group size, and type of experience. We'll help you organize the details.
24/7 Studio Membership
Do you offer pottery studio memberships?
Yes. Our membership program provides 24/7 access to our fully equipped pottery studio.
How much does membership cost?
Membership is $140 per month, with a minimum three-month commitment.
What's included in a membership?
Members enjoy 24/7 studio access, shared equipment, personal storage, studio glazes and firings included with clay purchased through Pearl & Fern, retail discounts, and exclusive member events.
Can I access the studio outside business hours?
Yes. Members receive secure access to the studio 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Do I need experience to become a member?
Members should have sufficient pottery experience to work independently and safely. If you're new to pottery, we recommend completing introductory classes or a course first.
Can I bring my own clay?
No. All clay used in our membership studio must be purchased through Pearl & Fern to ensure compatibility with our equipment, glazes, and firing processes.
Are glazes and firings included?
Yes. Studio glazes and standard firings are included with clay purchased through our membership program.
Do members receive retail discounts?
Yes. Members receive a 5% discount on eligible retail purchases.
Can I sell pottery I make at the studio?
Yes. Members may sell their work independently, and we also offer consignment opportunities for eligible handmade pottery.
Can I pause my membership?
Members may request one membership pause per year, subject to our membership terms.
How do I cancel my membership?
Memberships have a minimum three-month commitment and require 14 days' notice to cancel.
Do you host member-only events?
Yes. We organize member socials, demonstrations, specialty firings, and other creative opportunities throughout the year.
Pottery Supplies, Tools & Equipment
What pottery supplies do you carry?
We carry clay, glazes, underglazes, pottery tools, brushes, moulds, bats, trimming tools, pottery wheels, kilns, slab rollers, and thousands of other ceramics supplies.
What brands do you stock?
Our selection includes trusted brands such as Mayco, Amaco, Spectrum, Speedball, Plainsman, Tucker's, Shimpo, Cone Art, and many more.
What types of clay do you sell?
We stock stoneware, porcelain, raku, sculpture, paper clay, and specialty clay bodies in a variety of firing temperatures and textures.
Can you help me choose the right clay or glaze?
Absolutely. Our team can help you understand clay bodies, firing temperatures, glaze compatibility, and suitable products for your projects.
Do you sell pottery wheels?
Yes. We carry pottery wheels for beginners, hobbyists, schools, and professional studios.
Do you sell kilns?
Yes. We're a Cone Art kiln distributor and can help you select the right kiln, accessories, and firing equipment for your needs.
Can you help me set up a pottery studio?
Yes. We can help you plan equipment purchases for home studios, schools, community programs, and professional ceramics spaces.
Do you offer kiln repairs?
Yes. We provide kiln troubleshooting, repairs, replacement parts, and equipment support. Contact us with your kiln model and details of the issue.
Do you manufacture your own pottery tools?
Yes. Our Pearl & Fern pottery tools are designed, developed, and manufactured in-house.
What kinds of Pearl & Fern tools do you make?
Our collection includes trimming systems, pottery bat systems, ribs, templates, presses, finishing tools, and other innovative studio accessories.
Do your pottery tools have a warranty?
Our eligible Pearl & Fern manufactured tools are backed by a two-year replacement warranty, subject to warranty terms.
Can you special-order products?
Yes. We can help source certain pottery supplies and equipment that aren't currently stocked in-store.
Do you offer wholesale pricing?
Wholesale and volume pricing may be available on selected products. Contact us to discuss your business or studio requirements.
Do you offer a loyalty program?
Yes. Customers earn one loyalty point for every eligible dollar spent, with rewards available starting at 200 points.
Shipping, Delivery & Pickup
Do you ship pottery supplies across Canada?
Yes. We ship throughout Canada, the United States, and internationally using Canada Post. Shipping availability and rates depend on your location, package size, and weight.
How long does it take to process my order?
Most in-stock and made-to-order products are processed within 7–10 business days. Special orders typically require 6–8 weeks to arrive at our store, while kiln orders may take approximately 16 weeks. Additional processing and shipping time may apply.
How long does shipping take?
Estimated delivery times after processing are:
Canada: Approximately 3–6 business days.
United States: Approximately 7–10 business days.
International: Approximately 12–14 business days.
Delivery times are estimates and may vary depending on the carrier, destination, customs clearance, and selected shipping method.
How much does shipping cost?
Shipping rates are calculated at checkout based on your order's weight, dimensions, and destination. Oversized or heavy equipment may require a separate shipping quote.
Do you offer local delivery?
Yes. Local delivery is available to eligible postal code areas, including V1P, V1V, V1W, V1X, V1Y, V1Z, V4T, V4V, V1B, V1H, V0H, and V2A. Availability and delivery charges depend on your location and order.
Can I pick up my order in-store?
Absolutely. We offer free in-store pickup at our West Kelowna location. We'll notify you when your order is ready for collection.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes. We ship internationally where delivery services are available. If your country isn't listed at checkout, contact us for assistance.
International customers are responsible for applicable customs duties, tariffs, taxes, and import fees unless otherwise indicated at checkout.
Do you ship clay, kilns, and large equipment?
Yes. Heavy or oversized products may require specialized shipping arrangements and additional charges. We'll contact you if a separate shipping quote is required.
Will I receive tracking information?
Tracking is available with eligible shipping methods. Where tracking is provided, you can use it to monitor your shipment.
What if my package is delayed or missing?
If your order hasn't arrived within 30 business days, contact us with your order number. We'll review the available tracking information and assist with investigating the delivery.
International delivery delays and customs processing are outside our control.
What if my order arrives damaged, incomplete, or incorrect?
Please contact us within 14 days of delivery with your order number, a description of the issue, and clear photographs of the product and packaging. We'll review the concern and arrange an appropriate resolution.
Please retain the original packaging until the issue has been resolved.
What happens if I enter the wrong shipping address?
Customers are responsible for providing accurate shipping information. Additional shipping charges may apply if an order is returned, requires redelivery, or must be reshipped.
Returns, Exchanges & Refunds
What is your return policy?
Eligible products may be returned or exchanged within 14 days of delivery, provided they are unused, in their original condition, and in their original packaging.
All returns require prior approval. Please contact us before sending anything back.
Are any products final sale?
Yes. Clay, glazes, and special-order products are final sale, along with any other products specifically identified as non-returnable at the time of purchase.
Who pays for return shipping?
Customers are responsible for return shipping costs on change-of-mind returns and exchanges. Original shipping charges are non-refundable, except where otherwise required by law.
How long do refunds take?
Once an approved return has been received and inspected, refunds are processed to the original payment method within 7 business days. Additional processing time may be required by your financial institution.
Can I change or cancel my order?
Please contact us as soon as possible. Changes or cancellations may be accommodated before your order ships, subject to any applicable special-order conditions.
What if I receive a defective product?
Contact us with your order number, a description of the issue, and photographs where possible. We'll review the concern and assist with a replacement or other appropriate resolution.
How do I request a return, exchange, or refund?
Email info@pearlandfern.ca with your order number and details of your request. Our team will review your inquiry and provide further instructions.
Still Have Questions?
We're happy to help with shipping estimates, product availability, special orders, and returns.
Email: info@pearlandfern.ca
Phone: 778-795-0099
Location: Unit 111 – 3310 Carrington Road, West Kelowna, BC V4T 0G6
Shipping times are estimates and are not guaranteed. All policies are subject to applicable consumer protection laws.
Kiln Firing & Studio Services
Do you offer kiln firing for non-members?
Unfortunately, we don't currently offer public kiln firing services. Our kilns are dedicated to studio members, classes, and workshops.
Can I bring pottery made elsewhere to be fired?
We don't currently accept outside pottery for firing.
Do you offer raku firing?
Yes. We periodically organize specialty raku firing experiences for studio members.
Do you offer lustre or specialty firings?
Yes. Specialty firing opportunities, including lustre and other alternative firing techniques, are offered periodically for members.
Can you repair my kiln even if I didn't purchase it from Pearl & Fern?
Depending on the kiln model and required repairs, we may be able to assist. Contact us with the manufacturer's name, model, and details of the issue.
Community & Other Questions
Do you support local schools and charities?
Yes. We're passionate about supporting our community through fundraising partnerships, educational programs, donations, and creative experiences.
Do you offer fundraising opportunities?
Yes. We have a fundraising program for eligible schools and community organizations that allows supporters to receive discounts on selected pottery classes while raising money for their organization.
Can schools or community groups book pottery experiences?
Absolutely. We work with schools, youth groups, community organizations, and other groups to create engaging pottery experiences.
Do you offer custom pottery?
Yes. We accept selected custom pottery commissions, depending on the project, timeline, and studio availability.
How long does custom pottery take?
Timelines vary depending on the project, but handmade ceramics generally require several weeks for creation, drying, glazing, and firing.
Do you collaborate with other businesses?
Yes. We love working with local businesses, artists, and organizations on creative events, workshops, and community initiatives.
Still have questions?
We're always happy to help.
Email: info@pearlandfern.ca
Phone: 778-795-0099
Location: Unit 111 – 3310 Carrington Road, West Kelowna, BC
Whether you're picking up your first bag of clay, planning a special event, or setting up your dream pottery studio, we're here to help you create.
Pearl & Fern — A Place to Create, Learn & Belong.