Pottery Class in the Virgin Islands: Make on the Wheel

Karl Burnett, a local ceramic artist, fires pieces in a wood-fired kiln he built himself on the grounds.

A private pottery class at The Pottery Garden in the Virgin Islands where you try the potter's wheel and hand-build clay pieces with live instruction from ceramic artist Karl Burnett. The class runs three hours and includes pickup from your hotel, pottery tools and materials, and a walk through the tropical garden where the workshop sits. Children from age 4 are welcome.

The Experience

You're picked up from your hotel in an air-conditioned vehicle and driven to The Pottery Garden along the coastal and ridge roads, with the driver sharing local history on the way. Karl meets you when you arrive and walks you through the grounds before moving into the workshop, where he explains the basics of hand-building clay and then demonstrates shaping pieces on the potter's wheel. Then it's your turn: you can try throwing on the wheel yourself or hand-build your own creation, getting your hands in the clay while Karl guides you through the process.

After the clay work, Karl shows you the wood-fired kiln and takes you through the tropical garden surrounding the studio. You'll browse the gallery of handcrafted pottery he's made—pieces available for purchase as a reminder of the class. Bottled water is provided throughout, and the whole experience stays small and private, so the pace stays yours.

What’s included

• Hotel pickup and drop-off in an air-conditioned vehicle.
• pottery tools, clay and all materials needed for the class.
• bottled water.
• live instruction from ceramic artist Karl Burnett.
• a tour of the wood-fired kiln and tropical garden.
• access to browse the studio gallery.

Good to know

Easy physical levelStroller friendlyPets welcomePublic transport nearbyInfants must sit on laps

Operated by The Pottery Garden

Is this one for you?The three-hour class leaves room for other activities earlier or later in the day, so it fits easily into a half-day itinerary. Book this if you want hands-on instruction and a small group setting rather than watching a demonstration, or if you're traveling with children and need an activity that works for mixed ages.

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Top questions

What do I actually make during the pottery class?

You try the potter's wheel to throw a piece, or hand-build a creation using clay techniques Karl teaches you. The pieces you make stay with Karl for firing in his wood-fired kiln; you can purchase finished work from the studio gallery if you'd like a piece to take home.

How long does the pottery class take from pickup to drop-off?

The full experience, including the drive to and from your hotel, runs three hours. That covers the introduction, Karl's demonstrations, your time at the wheel or hand-building, the kiln and garden tour, and time to browse the gallery.

Is this class suitable for children?

Yes, children from age 4 are welcome. The class is beginner-friendly and works for both young and old; infants can ride in a stroller or pram, and small children sit on an adult's lap during the drive.

What's included in the pottery class price?

Pickup and drop-off from your hotel, pottery tools and materials, bottled water, and Karl's instruction are all included. The class takes place at The Pottery Garden, which is unique to the Virgin Islands.

Can I buy pottery pieces made by Karl?

Yes, the studio gallery displays handcrafted pottery Karl has made, and you can purchase pieces as a gift or keepsake from your visit.