• Pantone Color-of-the-Year

    Every year, the Pantone Color Institute (PCI) chooses their Color-of-the-Year by looking at trends in fashion, art, travel and lifestyle.

    This year’s pick is Classic Blue. According to the analysts at PCI, they believe this color “instills calm, confidence and connection to others.”

    At #ClayCaféStudios, we have the perfect Classic Blue, #Mayco Color’s The Blues.

    Check out some of our pottery using this beautiful color. We love it!

    Pantone color of the year

  • Clay Cafe Studios Peace Plate Video

  • 10 Reasons Why a Paint-Your-Own-Pottery Studio is Perfect for Off-Site Field Trips and On-Site Events

    It’s that time again when schools, daycares and not-for-profit organizations search for off-site field trip destinations and on-site event ideas. This year, the Contemporary Ceramic Studios Association (CCSA) is inviting planners to try some new, fun, educational and memorable activities at their local paint-your-own pottery studio (PYOP) or by inviting that  PYOP to come to them.

    According to the CCSA, there are 10 key reasons why PYOP studios are perfect for your field trip and events:

    10 key reasons

    1. Activities can be customized for your group, such as an element of their art program or “art week.”
    2. PYOP studio owners are available to provide guidance, advice and support to ensure a flawless, fun experience for all involved.
    3. All materials and step-by-step instructions are provided by trained and friendly studio hosts.
    4. Participants get to keep a unique keepsake of the experience.
    5. PYOP staff takes care of all clean-up.
    6. PYOP studios have a comfortable and creative indoor environment.
    7. PYOP studios are typically located in areas that offer plenty of free parking.
    8. CCSA-member PYOP studios meet ADA compliance standards.
    9. Planners can take pictures of the event of field trip, which are perfect for publishing in newsletters and sharing on social media.
    10. PYOP studios are typically run by small business owners – many of them families- who have deep roots in the local area. Businesses, organizations and schools that support PYOP studios are strengthening their communities.

    “The most common feedback we receive from event and field trip planners is: I wish we had discovered PYOP studios years ago!” commented Dena Pearlman, CCSA’s executive director. “The good news is that it is never too late to think outside of the box and try something different, and perhaps start a great new tradition.”

    Clay Café Studios is a proud member of the CCSA.
    Call us at 703/534-7600 or come by to see us and we’ll help you plan your next event!

  • What is the Pantone Color-of-the-Year?

    For 20 years, Pantone’s Color-of-the-Year has influenced product development and purchasing decisions in many industries, including fashion and home furnishings. To make their selection, the #PantoneColorInstitute looks at trends in fashion, art, travel and lifestyle.

    This year’s pick is Living Coral. It is a mellow orange with gold undertones. It’s a very flattering hue that pairs well with lots of colors.

    At #ClayCafe Studios, we have the perfect Living Coral, Mayco’s SC89 Cutie Pie Coral.

    We especially like it paired with Seabreeze, a bluish gray.

    Come by #ClayCaféStudios and we’ll show you our new favorite color!

  • Bisque Imports’ How to Decorate with Rubber Stamps

  • Pottery Painting Techniques [Infographic]

  • Home Decor Trends for 2018

    At Clay Café Studios, we are always watching for the latest trends in home decorating. Rich, warm colors are in the forecast for this year. Florals are also always in style. This year, expect to see lots of botanical prints, pineapple-themed items and geometric shapes. Here are a few you can find at Clay Café.

    Botanical Prints

    Pineapples

    Geometric Designs

    If you are looking for something special to spruce up your home, don’t hesitate to ask us for help. We may just be able to find that special piece of pottery to complete your look!

  • Valentine’s Day Ideas

    If you are looking for the perfect Valentine’s Day gift, look no further than Clay Café Studios. We have lots of ideas!

    Pottery

    Hand and Footprint Art

    Doily on a heart plate

    Heart-shaped pottery

    Glass

    LOVE plate

    Jewelry

    Bracelets, pendants and earrings

    Clay Café Studios is open every day for pottery painting and glass fusing. Come in and we will help you create the perfect Valentine!

  • Why Round Plates are Better

    Does the shape of your plate matter? Surprisingly, it might.

    Did you know that research has confirmed that plate shape can influence consumers’ perceptions of food, especially sweetness. When comparing round vs. square plates, taste perception changes.

    One study found that perceived sweetness was higher on round plates than square ones. In fact, intensity and quality were also rated higher on round plates.

    Just some fun facts for you! We have many styles and sizes of round plates, as well as square ones, at #ClayCafeStudios. Come on by and check us out!

  • How to Make Your Own Dinnerware Set

    How to Make Your Own Dinnerware Set

    Do you love the thought of a coordinated, pretty dinner table? Have you been unable to find dishes that you like? Have you ever considered making your own?

    There are tons of modern and stylish dinnerware that are popular these days. Here are few we like:

    Solids in Trendy Colors

    Polka Dots or Stripes

    Floral

    Monogram

    At #ClayCafeStudios, we can help you customize your own set to fit your family’s needs. Be sure to ask us about our set discounts!