When asking yourself about something to do near me in Los Angeles with a group of friends or family, consider
Cobalt and Clay
Why Cobalt and Clay is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Cobalt and Clay is a welcoming ceramic studio located at 2017 Riverside Drive in Los Angeles, offering an inspiring space for individuals and groups to explore pottery arts. This vibrant community hub provides a variety of activities, including multi-week classes in wheel throwing and hand building, one-time workshops, and children’s classes such as Kids and Parent + Me sessions. The studio encourages creativity and learning for artists at all levels by offering memberships that grant unlimited access to studio wheels, glazes, and reserved shelf space for ongoing projects. The inclusive environment is designed to foster artistic growth through both individual practice time and engaging group events. Beyond classes, Cobalt and Clay hosts private events — perfect for corporate team building, birthdays, and creative gatherings — where professional instructors guide participants through pottery-making experiences. Additionally, the studio features a shop where visitors can purchase unique handmade ceramic pieces crafted by members and staff, providing a tangible connection to the studio’s creative output. With generous studio hours from midday through the evening seven days a week, ample street parking nearby, and a supportive atmosphere for all ages, Cobalt and Clay is an ideal spot to meet up with friends and immerse yourself in the tactile art of ceramics.
Here's what people think of Cobalt and Clay
As of recent, Cobalt and Clay holds a 4.9-star rating based on 58 reviews.
Users consistently praise Cobalt and Clay for its warm, inviting atmosphere and high-quality instruction. Many reviewers highlight the knowledgeable and patient instructors who make learning pottery accessible and enjoyable, whether through beginner courses or more advanced workshops. The community vibe also receives frequent commendations, with members appreciating the friendly environment that encourages creativity and connection. Customers value the flexible membership options, which provide ample studio time and storage, allowing them to grow their ceramic skills at their own pace. Additionally, the studio's private events are popular for group celebrations and team-building exercises, noted for their fun and educational nature. On the negative side, a small number of reviews mention the limited parking availability as a minor inconvenience, given that there is no dedicated lot but free street parking along Riverside Drive. A few also noted that some classes can fill up quickly, so early booking is recommended. Overall, the overwhelmingly positive feedback reflects a thriving studio that excels in fostering an artistic community while delivering quality pottery experiences. The excellent 4.9 rating based on 58 reviews underscores Cobalt and Clay’s reputation as a top ceramic studio in Los Angeles, combining welcoming staff, diverse programming, and a creative space that appeals to people of all ages and skill levels.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Colleen Dunn
Took a 6 week intro pottery class here and had a fantastic time. Love the small class sizes and the helpful instructors. The team made wheel pottery very approachable and not intimidating. I’m so happy with what I made and highly recommend their classes.
Gaby F
I loved it!! Working with clay is something I always wanted to try and I had a blast! I enrolled in the 4 week Monday night hand build class which started in Jan. In every class we were able to finish a project or two. Small intimate class with 8 students. I knew nothing about hand building but I googled a lot and watched a few YouTube videos for a little pre-knowledge. Our first class we dove right into pinch pots (that's the bowl and spoon holder in the photo), the 2nd week we tackled coil building (the vase), 3rd week was slab building (votive holder) and fourth week was finishing and glazing. The wheel throwing class was in the room next to us and they were amazing & first timers as well. That will be the next class I take which I believe starts in April.
Jordan Serra
Couldn’t recommend Cobalt & Clay enough! Super welcoming, very knowledgeable staff who genuinely love throwing and teaching. I took the 4 week beginner class and it was an absolute blast. Thank you Lisa!
Sarah Mitchell
I took Beginning Wheelthrowing with Lisa and it was awesome! Lisa is a great teacher, patient and upbeat and makes sure nobody falls through the cracks. Open Studio is such a great perk that comes with the class. With small class sizes and a big airy room, it’s a great pandemic activity. Love Cobalt and Clay!
Marnie K
Cobalt and Clay is an awesome creative space. The staff is friendly. The classes are well instructed and very well priced for all you get out of it. I was able to make some great pieces as a beginner. Highly recommend giving pottery a try. Especially here!
How to reach Cobalt and Clay
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Why Cobalt and Clay may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Rallying at Cobalt and Clay with your friends offers an incomparable blend of creativity, connection, and fun in a vibrant, supportive environment. This Los Angeles ceramic studio, located in the Silver Lake/Atwater Village area, boasts an almost perfect rating of 4.9 from 58 detailed reviews, reflecting consistent praise for its welcoming atmosphere, skilled instructors, and well-equipped facilities. Gathering here means stepping into a space where you and your group can immerse yourselves in hands-on pottery experiences, whether you are absolute beginners or looking to refine your skills in wheel throwing and handbuilding. Beyond simply shaping clay, this is a venue where shared laughter, mutual encouragement, and artistic collaboration create lasting memories, making it ideal for friends and family meetups alike. Hosting an event at Cobalt and Clay transforms typical social outings into meaningful creative adventures, fostering both personal expression and collective joy, all in a setting that radiates good vibes and community spirit.
What makes Cobalt and Clay perfect for a group meetup?
Cobalt and Clay is designed to accommodate groups of various sizes, making it an excellent choice for meetups with friends or family. The studio offers private event rentals where your group can reserve the entire space, guaranteeing a personalized experience fully dedicated to your enjoyment. Whether it’s a birthday celebration, a casual gathering, or a corporate team-building session, the studio’s staff will tailor the event to fit your group’s interests and skill level. You have the option of guided classes led by professional instructors who teach wheel throwing or handbuilding techniques, enabling everyone from novices to experienced potters to engage at their own pace while sharing the creative journey. The studio features a spacious, cool patio for breaks or socializing, adding to the relaxed ambiance. Plus, the community-oriented atmosphere ensures your meetup feels intimate yet inclusive, encouraging interaction and bonding around the shared art of ceramics.
What types of activities can groups enjoy at Cobalt and Clay?
At Cobalt and Clay, groups can dive into multiple pottery-related activities that cater to different tastes and skill levels. The centerpiece activity is the wheel throwing class, where participants learn to shape clay on a spinning wheel—a meditative, hands-on craft that fosters patience and focus. For those preferring a tactile and creative challenge, handbuilding workshops offer a chance to construct unique pieces using techniques like coiling and slab building. The studio also runs multi-week courses for deeper skill development but offers plenty of one-time classes perfect for groups wanting a fun, casual artistic outing. Children and parents can enjoy special Kids classes and Parent + Me sessions, making this a family-friendly venue. Beyond crafting, the studio even provides firing services, where your creations are glazed, fired, and prepared, allowing your group to take home professional-quality pottery as a tangible reminder of your experience. Additionally, the studio’s pottery shop features handcrafted pieces by members and staff, further inspiring guests and offering unique souvenirs.
How does the studio enhance the social experience for your group?
The environment at Cobalt and Clay is intentionally crafted to make every visit not just about pottery but also about connection and community. The friendly, knowledgeable staff are genuine in their passion for helping everyone succeed, making learning pottery a shared, confidence-boosting endeavor. The studio’s layout encourages group interaction with communal worktables and plenty of open space for discussion and support among participants. The cool patio provides a restful spot for relaxed conversations between sessions, enhancing the meetup vibe beyond just a crafting class. Many reviewers highlight the great service and great vibes that contribute to a positive, upbeat atmosphere ideal for socializing. Whether your group is competitive, collaborative, or simply in it for fun, Cobalt and Clay provides a low-pressure, high-engagement environment that strengthens friendships and family bonds through shared creativity.
Why choose Cobalt and Clay over other meetup venues?
Choosing Cobalt and Clay as your meetup spot offers distinct advantages over conventional venues like restaurants or parks. First, the studio isn’t just a place to hang out—it’s an active, immersive experience that leaves you with more than just memories. Engaging in pottery making together activates creativity, teamwork, and mindfulness, breaking the usual social routine and leaving everyone feeling accomplished. The affordability and accessibility of the classes provide excellent value; guests often comment on the reasonable pricing for quality instruction and materials. The location in the vibrant Silver Lake area adds local charm and easy access, making it convenient for city dwellers. Finally, the studio’s consistent 4.9 rating underscores high customer satisfaction, ensuring your group’s event will be met with professionalism and warmth. For those seeking to mix social time with creative learning, Cobalt and Clay stands out as a versatile and enriching choice.
How do the memberships and workshop options benefit regular groups?
For groups that want to make pottery a recurring part of their social calendar, Cobalt and Clay offers monthly memberships granting unlimited access to wheels, glazes, and reserved shelf space for storing your work. This option is perfect for friends who become pottery aficionados and want to deepen their skills between meetups. Membership members enjoy firing allotments and studio access during open hours, creating ongoing opportunities for collaboration and friendly competition. Additionally, specialized workshops allow groups to explore focused techniques or unique styles beyond foundational classes, keeping every visit fresh and skill-building. These memberships and workshops foster a sense of belonging to a creative community, turning casual visitors into active participants in the studio’s artistic culture. For communities seeking ongoing, meaningful interaction with friends or family, these options provide structured yet flexible frameworks that encourage regular, enjoyable meetups.
Can families with kids enjoy Cobalt and Clay together?
Absolutely. Cobalt and Clay specifically caters to families by offering Kids Classes and Parent + Me sessions, fostering intergenerational bonding through art. These classes are designed to be accessible and enjoyable for children, promoting motor skills development, creativity, and confidence in a safe, supportive environment. Parents can actively participate alongside their children, turning these sessions into quality time spent creating together. The studio’s relaxed atmosphere and expert instructors ensure that even young kids feel invited and successful, making it a perfect alternative to screen-time or typical party venues. Families can also take advantage of private event bookings for celebrations with a hands-on twist, where kids and adults alike get to shape their own pottery pieces, resulting in personalized keepsakes. This makes Cobalt and Clay an ideal family meetup place that balances fun, learning, and meaningful interaction.
What kind of vibe and community can you expect at Cobalt and Clay?
Visitors to Cobalt and Clay describe the studio’s vibe as warm, welcoming, and creatively energizing. It has a community ceramic studio feel that invites everyone—whether beginners or seasoned artists—to participate, share ideas, and support one another. Customers often emphasize the great service and the friendly owners who create a sense of belonging rather than a transactional experience. The artistic atmosphere is complemented by the studio’s cool patio and an inspiring loft-like setting that fosters both concentration and socializing. This atmosphere makes meetings feel less like scheduled appointments and more like casual yet purposeful gatherings with friends who share a love of creativity. For those seeking to connect over a unique, hands-on experience rather than passive entertainment, Cobalt and Clay offers an inviting space that nurtures both art and friendship.
Through its wide range of pottery classes, workshops, memberships, private events, and a community-focused environment, Cobalt and Clay stands out as an exceptional venue to rally your friends and family for a memorable meetup. Whether you seek creative expression, social connection, or just a fun, different way to spend time together, this Los Angeles ceramic studio offers it all with professionalism, warmth, and inspirational charm.