Pottery lessons are currently on hold due to studio workload. (However, gift certificates may be redeemed during this time.) Once sessions resume for scheduling, this notice will be removed from the website.

POTTERY CLASSES at Lin Barnhardt's home studio are offered to individuals or small groups, with little to no experience at the potter’s wheel. Instruction is adaptable, ranging from first grade to adult levels. Lessons consist of two sessions, scheduled on mutually convenient days/times. (Allow 20 to 30 minutes per person). FIRST SESSION: Throw choice of bowl, tumbler, or vase.  SECOND SESSION: Return to glaze vessel in choice of color.

Home School Enrichment

Lin Barnhardt taught art at the middle & high school levels in North Carolina for nearly 30 years.  His home studio is now his classroom.

We had a great time learning about pottery with Mr. Barnhardt! My son, Ira, learned how to use the wheel to make a bowl, and the best part was Lin’s gentle guidance, instruction, and explanation through every step. Rather than just taking over the difficult parts, he demonstrated what to do and explained everything in a way that my six-year-old understood. Ira was able to have a very immersive experience that I definitely wouldn’t have been able to provide personally. We would both highly recommend his classes! Meredith Barbee 

Scout It Out

Studio sessions focus on wheel throwing, a part of the requirement for pottery merit badges in various levels of scouting programs.

Lin is a great teacher, very patient and knowledgeable. The scouts really enjoyed spending time getting their hands on the clay/wheel. It was amazing to see their creativity come alive – an experience not soon forgotten. Tammy Heintz, assistant scout leader

It's really fun; my friends should try it. - Anthony Maurer

When I saw my glazed pot, I liked the 'happy accident'. - Carter McConnell

Destination Date

Take a short drive to downtown Mt. Pleasant. Enjoy a dining experience at 73 & Main Restaurant, Mount Pleasant Smokehouse, or Cantina 73. Lin Barnhardt Studio is located 1½ miles south of the square.  Make arrangements for the two of you to take turns at the wheel, creating a “couple” of mugs, bowls, or vases before/after dinner.

Lin Barnhardt helps fix the mistakes you make. You really gain an appreciation for artists, like Lin, who have “the touch”. -Erika Barrier

It's not as easy as it looks, but you get expert instruction. Lin doesn't do it for you, but he keeps a watchful eye. Worth a visit just to see some pieces in his studio. – David Barrier

Go for a Spin

Load the family in the car, and head over to the studio. Get behind the potter’s wheel, accelerate the foot pedal, and turn clay into a vessel.

“If you want something fun for the whole family to do, bring them to Lin to learn how to make pottery. The kids had so much fun, and Lin is so patient and good with all ages and experience levels. He takes the time with each one and puts it in terms at their level to understand.”Shondra Badger

“It was fun. I liked the part where I put my hands on the pottery while it was spinning.” – Braelyn

Throw a Party

Got a reason to celebrate? Anniversary, birthday, job promotion. Share a special occasion with your inner circle of friends. Bring choice of beverage. Domino's Pizza delivers.

Turn Back Time

It’s always a pleasure to reconnect with former students, and talk about “the good ole days.” (Even better when I’m introduced to their kids.)

“What a fantastic visit to Lin Barnhardt’s studio for a “turn at the wheel.” He was our middle/high school art teacher turned friend. With his help we created two beautiful pieces. He is a great instructor. Don’t miss this opportunity! – Kathy & Scott Robinson (class of “78 & ’80 – Apex Senior High).

Girls' Night Out

Hangout with your inner circle. Celebrate with food/drink (if desired).

My family and I had the best time on our girls outing to make pottery. We can be a rowdy bunch and Lin was patient with us as we learned and laughed together. He made us feel at ease and we each walked away with a handmade piece of pottery that will always be special to each of us. We will definitely be attending more pottery classes in the future and recommending him to our friends and family. - Megan Deal

We had a great time creating our first pieces of pottery at Lin Barnhardt Studio! Lin was a great teacher, leading us through the process of using a pottery wheel step by step. And best of all, he’s very patient with beginners! We would highly recommend taking this class ~it’s a fun way to spend an afternoon! -Angie Griffin

Make It Personal

Create a unique piece for someone special!

 Alysa surprised my mom with a very special birthday gift today. It was a little late but so worth it. Since my brother’s passing my momma started getting lots of visits from dragonflies. So, Alysa designed her a piece of pottery, spun the clay on the pottery wheel, drew a dragonfly, cut it out of clay, attached it to the cup she spun, glazed it with mom’s favorite colors,and added a heart to the interior to remind her of the love those dragonflies bring. - Tara Crayton

Reason to Celebrate 

Although only six years old, Elaina Smith turned 100 at the wheel on August 28, 2020. (Older brother Wyatt turned 99.) For reaching this milestone at Lin Barnhardt Studio this year, Elaina received her choice of a ceramic birdhouse, feeder, or lantern.

I loved being the 100th person. I picked my favorite birdhouse for Memaw. – Elaina Smith

I liked the feel of clay. I’m going to put flowers in the vase for my mom – Wyatt Smith

It was a great experience. Lin is so patient with the children.  He explained things so they could understand them. I would highly recommend. Can’t wait until time to come back! - Debbie Smith

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