Dates & times
All times are local to the venue · America/Chicago
- 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
These are the previously published dates. Check the organizer for a new edition.
Check the organizer’s latest schedule ↗Give the Wheel a Whirl: a first pottery class in Viroqua
A first attempt at the potter’s wheel does not have to end with a finished pot. At Give the Wheel a Whirl, R.A.C.K. staff guide participants through the basics, then offer a choice about what happens to their work.
Learning the sequence
The one-time class introduces wedging and centering clay before participants pull it into a simple form. Small cups and bowls are examples of the shapes students can work toward. It is an introduction to the sequence of wheel throwing, rather than a promise of a particular finished piece.
The session also includes an orientation to Railroad Avenue Community Kiln’s shared space, including studio etiquette and workflow. R.A.C.K.’s studio FAQ describes orientation as an introduction to its own practices around cleanup, glazing and courtesy—a useful part of learning how a communal ceramics studio operates.
Further reading: Give the Wheel a Whirl - Viroqua Chamber ↗ · Give the Wheel a Whirl — Railroad Avenue Community Kiln ↗ · Clay Studio FAQ | What is in R.A.C.K.'s Studio? — Railroad Avenue Community Kiln ↗
A choice after class
At the end of the session, participants can recycle their clay or choose up to three pieces for staff to trim, fire and glaze. Materials are included in the $25 class fee; finishing costs an additional $25, payable in person after class.
The Chamber lists the finished-work option at $50 total and says it is for people who can pick up locally two to six weeks after class. If taking pottery home matters to your plans, allow for that later pickup rather than expecting to leave with fired pieces.
Further reading: Give the Wheel a Whirl - Viroqua Chamber ↗ · Give the Wheel a Whirl — Railroad Avenue Community Kiln ↗
Class schedule
Thursday, October 29, 2026 · Railroad Avenue Community Kiln
- Introductory wheel-throwing class and studio orientation, including wedging, centering and raising a simple pot.
Before you sit at the wheel
Book in advance
Select the October 29 session when registering. R.A.C.K. says a class may be rescheduled if enrollment is low.
Dress for a working studio
Wear closed-toed shoes and tie back long hair. R.A.C.K. is a fragrance-free space, so participants must avoid scented clothing and cosmetics. The studio also asks participants to avoid hand lotion and heavy nail polish.
Discuss adaptations ahead of time
The class requires moderate upper-limb strength and some fine motor skills. R.A.C.K. says the wheel’s foot pedal may be adapted for limited leg mobility, but its bathroom is not yet ADA accessible.
Contact the studio about access needs and let staff know if an aide or service animal will attend. Also alert staff to a pacemaker or other electronic implant, because some equipment uses electromagnets.
Getting to the studio
Railroad Avenue Community Kiln
The class is at 703 Railroad Ave, Viroqua, WI 54665. Use the map links to calculate directions from your starting point; transit and parking details are not confirmed.
Give the Wheel a Whirl - Viroqua Chamber ↗ · Contact Us | Connect with R.A.C.K Today — Railroad Avenue Community Kiln ↗
Before you make a plan
Is this a multiweek course?
No. This is a one-time introductory class, although R.A.C.K. lists other dates for Give the Wheel a Whirl.
Give the Wheel a Whirl - Viroqua Chamber ↗ · Give the Wheel a Whirl — Railroad Avenue Community Kiln ↗
Can I take my pottery home on the day?
Finished pieces require later local pickup. The Chamber gives a pickup window of two to six weeks after class.
What happens if I am sick?
R.A.C.K. asks sick participants to stay home and says it will reschedule their session at no charge.
Can a guardian join a child in the class?
Yes, but a guardian who participates must register separately. Participants under 14 must have a guardian on the property.
Location & Google Maps
Railroad Avenue Community Kiln
703 Railroad Ave, Viroqua, WI 54665
Map search by venue and address. Check the organiser’s entrance details before travelling.