This is my honest review after attending COUPLES Night at Mugi Pottery. First, the studio was tall, well lit, ventilated, and we were greeted kindly by the 2 instructors. They checked our COVID vaccination card; process was smooth and seamless. For couples night, we each were given a large slab of clay, 2 rolling pins, and tools for only 1 person. There is NO wheel spinning and the clay comes out of the wash so you stay relatively clean (minus hands). I suggest you come with tight fitting clothing, hair up for long haired students, and sleeveless top so you can really get into the clay freely. I especially enjoyed that way the class was taught: it was done with several small demonstrations; after each demo we were released to do what was demonstrated, and came back together for the next demo. All the while the instructors were visiting each couple to help answer questions a give advice. I love this way so those who pick up the demo quick (me) can just go at it, while the slower people can get the extra help without bogging down the whole class. The entire class went for a little over 2hrs so there is certainly a time constraint. Overall, the experience was AMAZING! A wonderful way the spend the evening with a loved one. Since we typically like working with our hands and have done similar experiences before- we knew how work together and help each other out. So it's important to understand your partner's strengths and weaknesses so you'll have a happy time guiding and giving affirmation with the creations. I noticed several couple getting annoyed with each other and giving a "do whatever the f' you want" response- lol. PRO TIP: come in with something already conceptualized so you can go right to it. The slab was first roll to make a cylinder, and the creativity goes from there. Size, shape, and what you want to do will help save time towards your finished product (I came home afterwards only coming up with more I could have done to my creation!). Some made stemless mugs, jewelry box with a lid, luminary candle holders, jugs- so much you can do from the starting cylinder shape. Go on YouTube to get the technique in your head, check out Pinterest or print photos/ designs ahead of time- all of which would have helped me on my final project. Only thing I would have loved to see: since it was couples night- maybe some cut roses, maybe some wine, more tools, but overall- I HIGHLY recommend. read more

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Mugi has brought me so much joy, peace, and mindfulness (speaking as someone who hates meditation). Outi, the owner, is one of the kindest and most patient people I have ever met. As a total beginner, pottery is extremely difficult and challenging and honestly it is not at all intuitive. I have gotten to make some really lovely pieces even though I'm new it has just taken a lot of time and patience. I would recommend Mugi to anyone who is interested in trying something new, joining a community, making friends, and being creative. Attached are a bunch of stunning pieces & a photo of Outi doing a demo read more

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I don't usually write reviews, and I especially don't like to talk negatively about small businesses, but felt this was necessary. I took the 8 week wheel class. Not for beginners, despite what the website says. With the exception of a few group demos, I was not given any instruction unless I explicitly asked. I was lost trying to follow the demos on my own, and embarrassed to keep asking basic questions when other students were far more advanced. I resorted to YouTube to learn some skills, and felt I was basically paying for access to the studio and its materials. One of my pieces was lost, and two of my pieces weren't bisque fired in time to glaze by the end of the session (to be fair, there was a technical issue with the kiln that led to a backlog). When I emailed about these issues and also scheduling a make up class, I received no response. Some people seem to really love the studio and it has a nice community vibe. My biggest piece of advice would be to have a separate, multi-week course specific to beginners with far more instruction and more structured learning/class time. The "watch this and then go do your own thing" approach really only serves intermediate/advanced students. read more

I signed up for an eight week pottery course at Mugi with a friend and we were so excited about it. Unfortunately, we both left feeling really disappointed. The classes say they're for both beginner and intermediate potters but there was barely any hands on instruction and I was totally overwhelmed trying to teach myself. I had never used a pottery wheel before this course and I expected more of a teaching environment. The website literally says: "All adult pottery classes focus on wheel-throwing techniques and accommodate skill levels from a total beginner to very advanced pottery veteran" - but as a total beginner, I didn't feel that way at all. At one point, students in my class were joking about how the assistant teacher Hannah loves to pull student pieces off the shelf and make fun of them if they're not up to her standards. As a complete beginner (and probably the least talented person in the class) I felt so uncomfortable after hearing that. Definitely not an environment that makes newbies feel welcome! My friend and I both left the class with a few small pieces but nothing that we really love or feel proud of which is a disappointing because the class cost hundreds of dollars and was also a huge time commitment. One of my pieces was a cup that I glazed blue and somehow it turned brown when it was fired. I was so bummed out when they gave it to me and asked how that happened. The teachers response was "oh yeah..... that glaze turns brown sometimes." I feel like that lack of care about the students experience pretty much sums up my experience at Mugi. I'm still interested in learning pottery but I'll definitely be trying a different studio next time! read more

Mugi Pottery Studio is a really nice place to take pottery classes, or to shop for pottery, and even paintings. They are a gallery in front, and a studio in the back for beginners and experienced potters of all kinds. I took a class on a whim at the beginning of summer, and it was so great. Like Yoga for the hands. They've been in the upper west side for years, and have even, I think, been a location for a movie. The teachers are so nice and patient, letting you do what you like while guiding you at the same time. And DO check their $5 and $20 bins for a lucky find on your way out! read more

Mugi Pottery - This is the Mugi storefront on Amsterdam. Cute, huh? - Arts & Crafts Near Me - New York, New York

This place is a gem and a community institution. It exudes creativity and good vibes. You can feel it even before you walk in the door.

Needed to reschedule do to unforeseen circumstances and was not accommodated even though I called and followed the steps given by the employee. read more

The information provided about the "Couples Night" is completely misleading. What they don't tell you is that you are only allowed to make slab or coil forms -- the same building techniques third graders use in art class. Even though every picture on the website shows either people throwing on the wheel or completed projects that were thrown on the wheel, as a customer, you don't get to go near one. I've taken advanced pottery classes in the past, so, as a part of my Christmas gift, my girlfriend signed us up for one of the Couples Nights thinking that I would enjoy working on the wheel as well as teaching her. We were both incredibly disappointed to learn that we had been misled. Despite the fact that the site doesn't explain what couples can and cannot make -- and that this was a Christmas presents -- no refund was offered when we tried to cancel. I really, really wish we could have saved our money and, more importantly, our disappointment. read more

I was a student here for a while before I hurt my foot and had to stop going. As a pottery experience in NYC it might be very high quality but you need to be prepared for the fact (not provided up front) that if you can't go to the "free hours" on the weekends you won't really be able to do any projects because every time you get there to your weekly session you will find out that the bowl you made last week is either still wet or too dry to trim. Also, the studio is always very crowded and you have to kind of weave your way past people to get around the table. My spot on the shelves was very high up and for whatever reason people always piled stuff up on the stepladder so I always had to put other people's stuff away before I could start. Also, when I injured myself I asked for a refund of unused classes and was denied. Overall though the teachers and fellow students are friendly and helpful, so... 3 stars. Recommended if you have the spare time to devote on weekends and lack claustrophobia. read more

I've been taking classes here for years - Mugi is a warm community full of potters willing to share, inspire, and commune in their process. The teachers are great (Outi is a wonderful, mad potting scientist!), there are lots of open studio hours (for free practice hours on top of classes), and it is generally home to a dynamic, lovely, and lively bunch of creatives. read more

I love this wonderful studio. I have taken classes, showed/sold work as well as bought pottery too! The teachers and associates are absolutely top notch. The place is small but well worth the price and great location. read more

Mugi is a wonderful pottery studio that really forms a sense of community. Everyone who works there is so nice it feels like a family. The selection of glazes at the studio is amazing, way beyond the common studio trap of the brown or green glaze. Outi is a wonderfully skilled teacher, very patient and kind even with beginners. I took my first class with her over 15 years ago ! I would highly recommend going there to adults or children students. read more

Wow. Walked into this place to inguire about the store and what they offer. Someone waked out from the back and did not say anything. No greeting. So we walked towards the back and asked who can help us. The man behind us said "me" when we turned back he didn't say anything else. Wow what horrible customer service. Walked out and now do not care shat they offer read more

I was doing pottery for about 1.5 year at Mugi and absolutely love it. Outi is an awesome potter and even a better person :) I like how chill the studio is. I personally like to be more independent and do my thing - Mugi studio is the perfect place to do so! Complete equipment and glazing selection, flexible studio hours and friendly, helpful people. Now I moved from NY, I miss Mugi and it's people a lot! Still keeping in touch and will definitely stop by when I am in town read more

Very bad. not nice at all. Don't want to be there anymore. Compare to other studios, it's also not cheap. read more

MUGI is such an UWS gem. There are so many talented people and the teachers are awesome! I have learned so much from the teachers and from working side by side with the advanced potters. While the price seems high, all the practice time they offer is more than worth it! Can't wait for next session! read more

I signed up for the couples night over the phone, making plans weeks in advance to have a nice valentine's day pottery class with my boyfriend. I was called at 5:31PM on the day of my pottery class by one of the employees and informed that the studio just started (the day of my class) with sessions starting at 5:30PM, instead of the regular 7-9PM schedule, which is still currently posted on their website. The $75 deposit we made on the phone is non-refundable, so we literally just gave a donation to this pottery shop for no services at all. I do not recommend Mugi to anyone at this time. I have e-mailed the owner in hopes that I will be refunded my money. We will see if that happens... read more

I enjoyed my course here. The atmosphere is relaxed and pretty friendly. The courses are pricey so I had expected a lot more instruction, esp. for beginners. Instead I had to frequently ask for help and guidance (my instructor would often go out to get his dinner during class). read more

I've been taking classes at Mugi for about a year and I highly recommend it. While researching studios before coming here, I read some negative comments on Yelp, so I decided to call and ask about things I'd read (like lost pieces, etc). I spoke to one of the owners and she offered lots of clarity and explanation toward other people's experiences. After talking with her I was confident that it was a great place to jump in and learn a new craft. So if you have a question, call and ask. The teachers at Mugi are extremely knowledgeable, they are patient and they work with students of all levels. Most of the classes are mixed skill levels, so I thought I'd be intimidated by advanced potters, but I quickly realized that I could ask any question at all and feel comfortable. The advanced students were always willing to give tips and help. From day one I had my own shelf to hold my work and was able to keep track of my pieces (so long as I put my name on them). Other yelpers wrote that their pieces got lost, and from what I've seen, they only get lost if you don't mark them or if you wait weeks or months to come back for them. All clay and tools are included in the class fee as well as Open Studio times every day where you can come and practice and create. I try to go to open studio at least once a week so that I really improve my skills and get better value for my money. Learning to throw on the wheel or to hand build with clay are skills that will take time, patience and passion. You won't be able to make a big exquisite vase or a matching set of bowls and cups on day one. So take a deep breath and enjoy the process. You will have to learn new skills and work your way toward making something you love. That's the beauty of making something by hand. If you take time and allow yourself to stick with it, the rewards will be much more valuable than the fee you pay to take the class. Mugi is a great place for beginners and experienced potters alike. It's a cozy community of artists and hobbyists and I've absolutely enjoyed my time spent, elbow deep. read more

I've been going to Mugi for years and this place is friendly and amazing. I strongly recommend signing up for classes or simply buying some of the beautiful and unique hand-made pottery. If you are looking for a non-judgmental, friendly and welcoming/warm atmosphere to make or shop for pottery, go to Mugi! read more

While others that take classes are a joy, Margo and Mugi NO THANK YOU. Not only is she gruff, unpleasant, nasty more importantly she doesnt teach and just watches and tells you how you're doing it wrong. This woman should NOT teach. Also I made two items, both of which got "lost" and then made two additional and when I came back they were gone off of my shelf. The lovely Margot told me "well I dont know, I cant remember, how am I suppose to know". Unbelievable. Take from La Mano in Chelsea or a number of others where youll actually LEARN and have a piece to take with you. HORRENDOUS. read more

I have taken pottery classes at Mugi Pottery in NYC for 6 years and I highly recommend the pottery experience at Mugi Pottery Studio in Manhattan. The studio (like all NYC spaces) is small but it's filled with abundant creativity, warmth and friendship. The community of students is amazing- I enjoy the creative and supportive atmosphere that the studio offers. The Studio has two owners that run and are the primary teachers of Mugi studio. The wealth of knowledge these to talented women possess is a great foundation for anyone that wants to learn pottery; from throwing at the wheel to hand building pieces at the table. There many classes to choose from and the students range from beginners with no prior experience with pottery to seasoned professionals. There are ample hours of open studio time when students are encouraged to come in to practice and explore their own creative ideas. The studio also offers gallery shows once or twice a year for students that would like to show off their work and sell the items that they have lovingly created. Mugi Pottery Studio has a laid back atmosphere where ones stressful day is forgotten at the threshold. I highly recommend Mugi Pottery to anyone interested in learning to throw pottery, take a couples class (a two hour class of hand building), children's classes or parties & corporate events. read more

I have been taking classes in wheel throwing at Mugi for over 4 years. When I started, I was an absolute beginner. Pottery is a manual skill, and the potter improves with time and practice. Classes are all mixed skill levels, and practice times (included in the class fee) bring together many different people, with a great deal of experience and insight to share. The community at Mugi is very warm and generous. Everyone in the studio is available to answer any question or offer advice on a specific piece or throwing in general. I have principally had Margot as my teacher, and she offers a depth of wisdom and just good throwing technique, so I have steadily improved and now count myself as an experienced potter. My entire experience at Mugi has been extremely positive. I enjoy working with clay. I also enjoy the people and the atmosphere. Pottery is different from any other aspect of my life, and Mugi is a wonderful place to escape to. read more

The instructors are good at helping you work with clay, but they (1) really dont give a damn about your finished product; and (2) don't know how to help you glaze a piece. The other reviewer is right- they take very few cares to make sure that your piece is left in a safe place, un-trampled on, and ready to work on. Only one of the instructors glazes pieces in studio (the rest do it in some kind of fancy wood burning oven in the countryside). So when you want to know if a glaze will work, no one knows, and no one seems to care that you might put a lot of work into a piece and then have it ruined by a bad glaze. Furthermore, the people who load the kiln do not take any care to put your piece in the right part of the kiln for the type of glaze you are using (this is standard in any decent studio). Also- when I wasn't able to pick up some pieces I made immediately, they were gone by my next trip to the studio- and I paid a LOT in firing fees for all these pieces! My name was on them! They had my phone number and email! But no one contacted me to tell me my pieces would disappear if I didn't pick them up right away. I have been to a lot of studios, but never one that cared so little about student work. There are certainly better studios in Manhattan. The JCC on 76th street is one. I would be happy to hear about others. But skip this. The atmosphere is cute, the instructors friendly, and the shop in the front has some stunning artwork. But if you want to make and take home some nice stuff- don't go here. read more

Love this place! I took a class years ago & come back to shop all the time. The place is a gem with lots of surprises. I often go here to buy gifts for friends, celebrations. The pottery is wonderful and beautifully made. The potters are busy in the back making their goods as you walk around this tiny gem. read more

If you are considering Mugi for a birthday party, THINK AGAIN. We reserved a date for a children's birthday party. I called to see if our date was available; I called again to reserve the date and put a deposit down; I called again to speak to the teacher; I called again 2 days before the party to confirm time and date. Parties are held at times when the studio isn't normally open. When our special day arrived, we waited for the teacher to arrive. HE NEVER CAME. 12 kids were waiting with us outside, and Mugi was shut tight. If failing to come through on a commitment to a 10 year old birthday party wasn't enough, it took days for the owner to call me back, and when she did she made vague promises of "making it up to my kids" with no follow up. Thanks, Mugi, for ruining birthday memories. Don't make my mistake. Avoid this place at all cost. read more

Ornery curmudgeon owner and officious regulars made newcomer, me, feel like a major imposition and nuisnace- this is not the place to learn. Also the few pieces I did make after they had left the kiln and placed in shelf they went "missing". Couldnt make up a class and well was out of my pottery pieces due to them gone astray. Try the one down in chelsea- much better and kinder! read more

Horrible owner...couldn't care less about the children who go there...my grandson had to wait five months for them to find the two pieces he created and she did not respond to my many visits, calls, written messages, etc. Disgusting irresponsible person and we should put her out of business.. read more

I took an 8 week course, it was alright. I learned some things about pottery and it's actually a lot harder than I thought. Margo and the others were friendly. I thought it was kind of intimidating because of all the different level of skills. I think I would've done better with private lessons or same level students because my anxiety. Also made some things but when I came back to finish working on them, they were gone so idk I was disappointed about that. read more

5 stars!! I attended a couples night class here yesterday & I have to say I was completely satisfied, especially with the fact that my girlfriend and I arrived late due to traffic. We were accommodated immediately. The instructor was very nice and detailed. He had no problem helping out. I was pretty turned off by the negative reviews, but I'm definitely glad I went to try it myself. It is small, but I loved it. The vibe and the people attending were great. I would definitely recommend! There's no pottery wheel used at couples night because that would obviously take longer than just a night but they do offer many classes if that's what you're into. read more

I took a class at the beginning of summer and loved it! The teachers and fellow class mates were all very friendly. It's a very laid back atmosphere. A great place to get creative and yet learn a new skill. I am definitely going to continue with a class in the fall and recommend anyone who is thinking about trying out pottery to do it here! read more