GENERAL FAQ

Do I need an appointment?

Yes. Create It Ceramics Studio is available by appointment at our private Burlingame studio. Ceramic handprint, footprint, paw print, and keepsake appointments are scheduled in advance so we can prepare for your visit and give you dedicated time in the studio.

Mobile pottery experiences and group events are also reserved in advance based on availability.

Are the pottery pieces safe for dishwasher & microwave?

We recommend treating your finished pottery like fine china. Hand washing is best, and we recommend avoiding the microwave to help protect the piece over time.

Each piece is professionally glazed and kiln-fired, but sudden temperature changes and repeated dishwasher cycles can place extra stress on handmade ceramics.

Do your products contain lead?

We use certified non-toxic products throughout the studio. Our pottery paints and finishing glazes are designed for ceramic use and contain no added lead.

If you ever have questions about a specific material used during your project, just ask. We’re happy to provide additional product information when available.

Will pottery paints wash out of clothing?

Our pottery paints are water-based and generally wash out of clothing, especially when treated promptly. We still recommend wearing something you don’t mind getting a little creative in, particularly with children. 😉

CERAMIC KEEPSAKES + HANDPRINTS

What ages can you capture?

Everyone. 🧡 We create ceramic keepsakes using handprints, footprints, and paw prints from newborns through adults. Baby prints are especially popular, but sibling, parent-and-child, family, grandparent, couple, and pet keepsakes can be just as meaningful.

What if my baby or child doesn’t cooperate?

Totally normal. Little hands and feet have their own plans. We gently work with your child, take our time, and can capture more than one impression when needed to get the best result possible. You don’t need to practice beforehand.

How long does it take to capture a handprint or footprint?

The impression itself only takes a few minutes. Appointment length can vary depending on the number of people being captured, how many keepsakes you’re creating, personalization choices, and the type of appointment or event. We’ll let you know what to expect when your keepsake is planned and scheduled.

How long until my keepsake is finished?

Ceramic keepsakes typically take approximately 12–14 weeks to complete. Each piece is slowly dried, kiln-fired, hand-finished, glazed, and fired again. The longer turnaround gives us time to protect the impressions and carefully finish each piece.

Can siblings or family members be included on the same piece?

Absolutely. We create sibling keepsakes, parent-and-child pieces, family handprints, couples’ keepsakes, multi-generational pieces, and custom combinations of hands and feet. If you’re not sure what will work best, tell us who you’d like included and we’ll recommend options.

Can I customize the colors and design?

Yes. Personalization is one of the best parts of the process. Depending on the keepsake, we can incorporate colors, lettering, names, dates, birth details, borders, stamps, decorative accents, and other meaningful details. You’re welcome to bring inspiration, or Jackie can help guide the design.

What is a preservation mold?

A preservation mold creates a reusable copy of the original hand, foot, or paw impression captured during your appointment. It gives you the option to create another keepsake from that same impression in the future, even after those tiny hands or feet have grown.

How much do ceramic handprints cost?

Pricing depends on the age of the person being captured, the number of impressions, and the size and style of the keepsake. Petite newborn hanging keepsakes start at $72, and finished handprint plaques start at $90. Complete our Plan Your Keepsakes form and we’ll recommend options and provide exact pricing before you book.

Ready to create your keepsake?

Tell us a little about who you’d like to capture and what you’re imagining. We’ll help you explore the options, recommend keepsakes that fit your family, and provide pricing and availability before you book.

POTTERY + CREATIVE EXPERIENCES

What kind of pottery experiences do you offer?

Pottery painting is our signature creative experience. We provide the pottery, paints, brushes, supplies, creative guidance, glazing, and kiln firing so your group can focus on creating together. Glass fusion may also be available for select events.

How many people do I need for a pottery experience?

Group pottery experiences are designed for 10 or more artists. If you’re planning something smaller, contact us and we’ll let you know what options may be available.

Where can a pottery experience take place?

Pottery experiences can be hosted at your location throughout the San Francisco Bay Area or, depending on group size and availability, at our private Burlingame studio. We’ll help determine the best format for your gathering when you inquire.

How much does a pottery experience cost?

Pottery painting experiences start at $77 per artist, with a 10-artist minimum. Final pricing is based on confirmed guest count, event location, and any special requests. An 18% service gratuity applies.

Is there a deposit to reserve an event?

Yes. A 50% non-refundable booking deposit is required to reserve your date. Your remaining balance is due before the event based on the terms provided with your booking.

Do you offer corporate and team events?

Yes. Create It offers pottery experiences for corporate teams, employee appreciation, retreats, celebrations, and other company gatherings. We can bring the experience directly to your office or event location and take care of the creative materials, setup, guidance, cleanup, glazing, and kiln firing.

Do guests have to be artistic?

Not at all. No artistic experience is required. We provide guidance, inspiration, and supplies while still giving everyone room to make their piece their own.

What happens to the pottery after the event?

We take the finished pieces back to the studio for professional glazing and kiln firing. Once everything is complete, pieces are individually packaged and pickup or delivery is coordinated with one event contact.

Do you bring the pottery experience to us?

Yes. Mobile pottery experiences can be brought to offices, celebrations, schools, community groups, and other gathering spaces throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. We arrive with the pottery, supplies, and materials needed for your group, then handle setup and cleanup.

What do we need to provide for a mobile event?

We typically need tables, chairs, and a comfortable space for your group to create. Event-specific needs will be confirmed during planning so you know exactly what to have ready before we arrive.

Do you offer corporate and team-building events?

Yes. Pottery painting is a relaxed, hands-on way for teams to connect without requiring anyone to perform, compete, or already be “creative.” Experiences can be planned for team celebrations, employee appreciation, retreats, office gatherings, and other company events.

Can you accommodate larger groups?

Yes. Larger groups can often be accommodated depending on the location, event format, and availability. Tell us your estimated guest count when you inquire and we’ll help plan the experience around your group.

Can we add more time to our event?

Additional event time may be available and is quoted separately. Let us know what you’re planning and we’ll recommend a timeframe that works well for the experience.

Can we have a private pottery experience at your studio?

Yes. Private pottery experiences are available by reservation at our Burlingame studio. We provide the pottery, paints, supplies, creative guidance, glazing, kiln firing, and cleanup so your group can relax and enjoy creating together.

How much does a private studio experience cost?

Private studio experiences are planned based on group size, project selection, and availability. Contact us with a little information about your group and we’ll provide current options and pricing.

PAINT PARTY IN A BOX

What is Paint Party in a Box?

Paint Party in a Box is our take-home pottery option for creating on your own schedule. Your kit includes pottery, paints, brushes, instructions, and the supplies needed to create at home or at your own gathering.

What happens after we finish painting?

Return your finished pottery to the studio and we’ll professionally glaze and kiln-fire the pieces for you. We’ll let you know when everything is ready to come home.

Is Paint Party in a Box the same as a mobile pottery event?

No. Paint Party in a Box is designed for groups who want to create independently, while our mobile pottery experiences include on-site setup, supplies, creative guidance, cleanup, and event support from Create It.