When asking yourself about something to do near me in Los Angeles with a group of friends or family, consider
Sooki Studio & Supply
Why Sooki Studio & Supply is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Sooki Studio & Supply is a vibrant ceramic artist studio located in the heart of Frogtown, Los Angeles. This unique space is more than just a studio; it’s a creative community hub focused on supporting mental wellness and fostering artistic expression through ceramics. Members and visitors alike enjoy 24/7 access to spacious indoor and outdoor areas designed for handbuilding ceramics. The studio operates on thoughtful values of care, communication, and social consciousness, creating an inclusive environment particularly welcoming to LGBTQ+ and BIPOC makers. Its sliding scale membership options cater to both beginners and seasoned ceramic artists, ensuring accessibility and support for all skill levels. Besides ample studio access, members benefit from dedicated shelving space, discounted rates on studio services and supplies, and regular community potlucks which provide opportunities for learning, sharing ideas, and strengthening creative bonds. The studio also offers weekly to bi-weekly firing services that accommodate different ceramic firing needs. Located conveniently near the LA River bike path, Sooki Studio & Supply provides an inspiring escape where friends and makers can meet, collaborate, and grow artistically in a warm, welcoming environment.
Here's what people think of Sooki Studio & Supply
As of recent, Sooki Studio & Supply holds a 5-star rating based on 32 reviews.
User reviews consistently praise Sooki Studio & Supply for its exceptional community spirit and supportive atmosphere. Many highlight the studio’s welcoming environment and the staff’s clear dedication to nurturing creativity and mental wellness through ceramics. The availability of 24/7 access and the generous discounts on classes, materials, and firings are frequently mentioned positives that make this studio highly valuable to its members. Reviews also commend the quality of workshops and the diversity of the community gatherings, which contribute to a vibrant and inspiring experience. Several reviewers appreciate the inclusivity and social consciousness embedded in the studio’s culture, feeling particularly at home among fellow artists and makers from various backgrounds. On the other hand, some reviews note minor inconveniences such as occasional scheduling conflicts due to private events which limit studio access or the busy nature of popular workshops. A few mention that the space can sometimes feel small when fully booked. Despite these minor critiques, the overall sentiment remains overwhelmingly positive, with many members recommending Sooki Studio & Supply as a top choice for those seeking both community and creative development in a professional yet relaxed ceramic setting.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Samantha Avitia
I’ve been looking for a ceramic studio that shares my values for community, inclusion and cleanliness for a couple of years now. And I didn’t find it until I tried Sooki studio. The energy in the space is so wholesome, genuine and kind. I’m so happy that I found this space. If you are looking for a beginner friendly studio, that is encouraging of all skill levels and has phenomenal instructors, I highly suggest the studio. Not only that, but it is located near the incredibly special LA River giving you an opportunity to stop by and say hi. Definitely give the studio a try.
Marina Balyan
I recently had the pleasure of visiting Sooki Pottery, and it is a truly special place. From the moment I walked in, I could feel the welcoming atmosphere that Nathalia has so thoughtfully cultivated. Nathalia has created a space where creativity flourishes, and everyone feels at home, whether you are a seasoned potter or a complete beginner. The studio itself is well-equipped and beautifully designed, providing all the tools and materials needed to explore and express your creativity. The classes and workshops are well-structured, yet flexible enough to cater to individual needs and skill levels. What sets Sooki Pottery apart is the sense of community Nathalia has built. It’s more than just a pottery studio; it’s a place where friendships are formed, ideas are exchanged, and creativity is celebrated. If you’re looking for a place to learn pottery, meet wonderful people, and immerse yourself in a creative and supportive community, Sooki Pottery is the place to be. Highly recommended!
Lindsey Kusterman
Such a calm and inviting place to relax and make ceramics. Every class I've taken has been wonderful and I can't recommend it enough! So many options for advancing your practice, long sessions or one day workshops with visiting artists.
Phuong Pham
Sooki Studio is a warm and inviting art space tucked just off the bustling LA River bike path! Natalia has cultivated an environment that combines community care with the healing powers of pottery. You can take one-time workshops and longer/weekly classes here and also support progressive causes and movements through their events. The space has work tables indoors and outdoors with plenty of shade and a variety of seating options. Sooki Studio takes extra care in all the details and communication. There are fun little snacks if you’re feeling peckish, tea and coffee, and thoughtful signage so everyone knows where to find supplies and clean up. While there are many pottery studios around town, what sets Sooki Studio apart is their emphasis on community. They demonstrate a commitment to their values with intentionally planned events, sliding scale pricing, and inclusive classes. If I need some alone time to decompress, I can trust that the space will be tidy, organized, and mellow. I can also work on projects and chat with other members, students, and teachers who are curious and friendly. Finally, some info for people who already work with clay: Sooki is currently a sculpting/hand building studio. There is a slab roller, large tables, and plenty of tools. Firing (cone 5) is reliable and frequent, and Natalia sends regular status updates. There is a separate, CLEAN, glazing area with an assortment of studio glazes, and you can also purchase clay here.
Maricelia Carmona Leon
There is so much to say about this studio! I just walked out and I am inspired to write what is has done for me! This is hands down the best studio in Los Angeles! It's so welcoming and it has an amazing vibe! As I was looking for a ceramic studio to learn, I went to a few, but once I arrived to Sooki Studio, I knew I had found a magical, safe and no judgement place to learn! All very important aspects when trying to find a space to be a beginner in this art! I share this experience with my 12 year old daughter and it has helped us bond and be closer to each other in a very magical and unique way. Natalia was very welcoming when she met my daughter who was 10 at the time, and my daughter fell in love with not only the studio, ceramics, art, but most importantly Natalia! Natalia is an amazing person; she is so understanding and when she is teaching about clay, it's like she becomes one with the clay!! It's mesmerizing to watch her teach and work with the clay!! I have taken so many classes at Sooki, and don't see my life without being able to come and enjoy the process of creating amazing things and being taught by a group of fantastic teachers!
How to reach Sooki Studio & Supply
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Why Sooki Studio & Supply may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Sooki Studio & Supply with your friends? This welcoming ceramics studio and creative space in Frogtown, Los Angeles offers a unique environment that draws friends and families together through artistic expression and shared experiences. With a perfect blend of community spirit, expert guidance, and hands-on activities, Sooki Studio turns a casual meetup into a memorable, meaningful event. The studio is family-run, which adds a warm and personal touch to every visit, making guests feel like part of an intimate creative community. Whether you and your friends are seasoned artists or complete beginners, Sooki’s inclusive, judgment-free atmosphere encourages connection, creativity, and relaxation. Moreover, the studio’s sliding scale pricing policy is designed to make art accessible to everyone, fostering an equitable space where all can enjoy crafting without financial barriers. This accessibility combined with expert-led workshops and unique handmade supplies creates an inspiring spot to rally together, unwind, and bond through making beautiful ceramics or simply enjoying the artful ambiance. It’s a perfect setting to nurture friendships, share laughs, and create lasting memories beyond the ordinary social gatherings.
What creative activities can groups engage in at Sooki Studio & Supply?
Sooki Studio offers a wide range of activities tailored for groups, making it an ideal spot for friend meetups or family outings. The heart of their offerings lies in ceramic workshops, which cater to all skill levels—from curious novices to experienced potters. These workshops encourage participants to learn and experiment with clay in a supportive, relaxed setting. Groups can engage in pottery wheel sessions, hand-building techniques, glazing, and sculpting, all guided by professional teaching artists who ensure everyone feels confident and inspired. Beyond ceramics, Sooki expands its programming to include other craft forms and creative explorations, leveraging collaborations with visiting artists to bring fresh, diverse experiences. This fluid curriculum helps group meetups stay exciting and fresh with each visit. Workshops are scheduled Thursday through Monday, giving ample flexibility to plan outings on weekends or during weekday evenings. Additionally, the studio offers rentals and studio memberships for those who want to return regularly, making it perfect for group members who form newly discovered passions or want to continue honing their skills together long-term. The activities are intentionally designed not just for learning, but for fostering mental wellness and community connection, enhancing the quality of time shared among friends or family.
Why is Sooki Studio the perfect venue for a group meetup?
Sooki Studio's atmosphere is purposefully crafted to be warm, inviting, and socially engaging, making it an ideal location for group gatherings. Unlike typical event spaces, Sooki blends artistic creativity with an educational and social experience, creating a multi-faceted environment where groups can bond over collaborative projects or simply relax surrounded by handmade art. The studio's family-run nature ensures a comfortable, down-to-earth vibe that feels personal rather than commercial. Its location nestled in Frogtown near the LA River bike path adds a scenic, accessible element to visits, often allowing groups to combine their studio time with nearby outdoor activities or local food stops, making the meetup a fuller day experience. The availability of snacks and casual “chats” enhances the social feel, encouraging conversation and connection outside the creative sessions. Furthermore, Sooki’s commitment to social equity through sliding scale workshop pricing means financial concerns are minimized, helping groups from diverse backgrounds come together easily. This inclusivity is critical for creating a welcoming space where everyone feels valued and inspired. Whether celebrating a special occasion, organizing a team-building event, or simply looking for a creative hangout spot, Sooki Studio offers an unmatched environment for meaningful group interaction.
What makes Sooki Studio’s workshops unique and inclusive?
Sooki Studio prioritizes inclusivity and community through its workshop structure and educational philosophy. The workshops are designed for all ages and experience levels, providing various entry points so anyone can participate comfortably. Importantly, the studio uses sliding scale pricing as a tool for social equity, which allows participants to choose a payment level that fits their budget, thereby removing a common barrier to arts education. This model supports mental wellness by offering creative outlets accessible to everyone, regardless of income. The teaching artists at Sooki foster a supportive, affirming classroom environment where diversity in background and skill is celebrated. This approach breaks down the intimidating barriers that creative spaces sometimes have and instead nurtures confidence and curiosity. Workshops include not only ceramics but also other crafts, presenting creative exploration opportunities beyond the wheel or kiln. This ongoing infusion of artistic variety ensures that returning groups find fresh inspiration and engagement. The blending of local and visiting artists in the teaching roster also helps participants gain exposure to new techniques and cultural perspectives, enriching their creative experience and their connections to one another.
How does Sooki Studio & Supply support mental wellness through creativity?
Sooki Studio explicitly centers its mission around mental wellness, recognizing crafting as a powerful way to reduce stress, increase mindfulness, and strengthen community bonds. Participating in hands-on activities like pottery fosters focus and a calming rhythm that benefits emotional health. The studio’s educational programs are structured to be nonjudgmental and welcoming, allowing guests to express themselves freely without pressure on results or performance. This environment promotes relaxation and joy, making a group meetup not just fun but also restorative. The process of shaping clay together naturally encourages conversation and laughter, which further supports emotional connection and well-being. Because everyone works at their own pace, individuals can experience a satisfying balance of challenge and accomplishment. Even simple actions such as glazing or painting can be therapeutic, providing tactile stimulation and a creative outlet. By embedding mental wellness principles into the fabric of its classes and community, Sooki Studio offers groups a holistic experience that nourishes both artistic skill and emotional health.
What can visitors expect from the Sooki Supply store during a group visit?
The Sooki Supply store complements the studio’s creative workshops with a curated selection of unique, handmade ceramic pieces, clay supplies, and artistic tools. For groups, this means an opportunity to browse and purchase one-of-a-kind items, such as bowls, cups, tiles, and planters crafted on-site by the studio’s artists. These carefully made products offer beautiful souvenirs or gifts that carry the personal touch of the studio’s craftsmanship. The store’s atmosphere invites casual exploration and relaxed shopping, perfect for groups who want to extend their creative experience with tangible works of art. Buyers also benefit from the option of local pickup in Frogtown or shipping within the U.S., adding convenience for those wanting to collect special pieces after their visit. Sooki Supply also stocks specific materials for ceramic work and other crafts, useful if a group decides to take their creativity home or continue projects on their own. This integration of workshop space and supply shop creates a comprehensive creative hub where friends or family can immerse themselves in both making and acquiring artisan items.
How accessible is Sooki Studio & Supply for diverse groups and needs?
Accessibility is a core value for Sooki Studio & Supply, reflected in both its physical location and its programming. Situated near the LA River bike path in Frogtown, the studio is easily reachable by bike, car, and public transportation, making it convenient for groups coming from across Los Angeles. Inside, the studio maintains a welcoming, barrier-free atmosphere designed to accommodate people of all ages and abilities. The sliding scale pricing model demonstrates the studio’s commitment to economic accessibility, ensuring that financial limitations do not exclude anyone from engaging in creative learning. The studio actively encourages visitors to reach out about access needs and works to accommodate various requirements, further underscoring its inclusive ethos. The relaxed, nonjudgmental environment also supports individuals who may have anxiety or sensory sensitivities, making it a safe space for a wide array of guests. For groups with mixed levels of expertise or different interests, the diverse offerings and adaptable teaching approaches allow everyone to find a comfortable and rewarding place within the studio’s community.
What are some practical tips for organizing a group meetup at Sooki Studio?
When planning a group meetup at Sooki Studio, it's helpful to consider a few practical details to maximize the experience. First, book your workshop or rental session in advance since the studio maintains a cozy, intimate setting that may limit group size. Communicate your group’s interests and skill levels to the staff so they can tailor the session appropriately. Plan to arrive a little early to settle in and enjoy the studio’s welcoming atmosphere, including the option for snacks and casual conversation before starting. If the group is interested in purchasing items, set aside time after the workshop to explore Sooki Supply’s store. Be mindful of the studio’s open days—Thursday through Monday—and their hours, typically 11 am to 7 or 8 pm, to find a time that works well for everyone. Finally, consider mixing creative time with a local walk or visit near the LA River bike path to extend the outing. By approaching the meetup with a bit of advance planning, groups can ensure a smooth, enjoyable artistic day that nurtures both fun and creativity.