I was mindlessly scrolling Facebook the other day (as one does when one is avoiding being productive), when I came across a local mom group post about Time to Kiln, a paint-your-own pottery place in northern Westchester.
Since the girls and I have never checked it out before and we were looking down the business end of a cold, gray, three-day January weekend, what better time to try it? I texted some friends, set up a surprise play date, and off we went.
As soon as we stepped in, I was surprised by how open and bright the studio was. Tucked in a little corner of a strip mall, I never would have expected it to be so airy and inviting. The girl working that day only added to the welcoming vibe. She greeted us with a smile and it was immediately apparent that she would be incredibly helpful if we had any questions.
The girls searched the shelves for the perfect pieces to paint while us mommas gently tried to direct them toward the cheaper shelves (most pieces are $15 to $40). Time to Kiln has no studio fees, so you pay for your piece and that’s it (this made my penny pinching heart happy).
After what felt like five hours of deliberation, they each picked the omg absolutely perrrrrrfect piece for themselves and we started picking out paints (which, of course, took another five hours of deliberation).
Once they were all set, the girl working (I wish I remembered her name!) explained what to do (which included making sure they did at least three coats of paint so that it comes out nice and bright and making sure not to leave anything clumpy because it will break off). She also told them not to worry about making a mess—which made them a little more giddy and excited. I really appreciated her saying that because it gave them permission to totally let loose and get into their painting (and with Ellie, that can definitely mean a mess).
The girls all had a really great time talking and laughing and painting their little hearts out. Their ages may have ranged from four to nine, but they each completely enjoyed themselves.
The older girls did take a little longer with their pieces, but it still worked out ok. The little ones explored the studio a bit, checking out the pottery pieces and deciding which ones they wanted to paint next time.
They also checked out the candle area in the front (you can also make personalized chunk candles or candle art in the studio as well as glass fusing) and picked out their favorite colors, deciding we’d have to come back and do that sometime too.
When everyone was done, we paid for their pieces and we’ll be able to pick them up in about a week or so (giving the studio time to glaze and fire them in the kiln).
I think this place would be a great space for a party—whether for kids or a girls night out! In fact, we might just have to think about planning a ladies night for local readers this spring!
If you would be interested in coming out and painting some pottery at Time to Kiln, let me know! I’ll see if I can set something up once there’s no threat of snow or ice!
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Hi! I'm Jen, a freelance writer and girl mom who loves reading the newest children’s books as much as I love a good psychological thriller. I believe fiercely in the power of kindness, empathy, and really good quality chocolate. When I'm not knee-deep in glittery crafts and girl talk, you can probably find me sprawled out on my couch in the middle of a Netflix marathon with dark chocolate smeared on my face. The struggle is real. 
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