Muddy Waters Studio is an art studio in Farmington MN that provides art classes, hosts art-centered birthday parties, and other private events for all ages.

You can enjoy one of their clay or painting classes with step-by-step guidance, or work on your own project at your own pace.

"Relax, have some fun, and make something."

At Muddy Waters Studio, they focus on the process. And it can be easy to forget that part of the process of nearly everything is making a mess and making mistakes. Muddy Waters encourage mistakes. They encourage trying things you’ve never tried. They encourage imperfection and they definitely encourage laughter! 

Muddy Waters Studio is a clay and painting studio in Farmington, Minnesota that welcomes all levels of experience; whether you have been throwing on the potter’s wheel for years, or you’ve never touched a ball of clay, they are here for you! Whether you can paint like Picasso, or can’t tell the working end of a paintbrush, they are there for you! They love exploring art, trying fun & new things, and making mistakes. Art is imperfect, you get to be imperfect too. 

Upcoming April Classes

Make A Tray

$45 Per Person for Ages 15 and up

Apr 11, 2025 from 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

In this guided clay class, participants will get a rolled out slab of clay to craft into a dish or tray. We will guide you in using forms to create the structure of your piece; this simplified building method allows you to focus more time on details and decorating. Some optional details and decorating include adding a foot, handles, raised designs, textures, stamps, and hand carving. Once built and decorated, participants will then glaze their pieces as simply or delicately as they wish. 

This class is recommended for ages 15 through adult. All supplies are included in the class fee, and aprons are available for use during class. Participants will be contacted when projects have been fired & are ready for pick up— 3 weeks after class.

Register for the Make a Tray HERE

Clay 100 - Handbuilding

$395 Per Person for Ages 15 and up 8

8 Classes Apr 14, 2025 - Jun 9, 2025

This is an introductory workshop to clay hand building. We will explore different properties of clay while we take a deep dive into the processes of 3 of the most common hand building techniques. In this 8 week workshop, you will learn each building technique, along with how to successfully use them, and what kind of projects they work well for. We will also spend some time experimenting with different surface decorations, and finishing off our projects by glazing them.  

New potters will get a solid foundation in clay to start imagining and creating your own art pieces. No experience needed. Along with class time, participants will get 8 hours of open studio time to practice their skills, finish a project, or make up any missed work. 

Week 1: Intro to studio, clay and wedging
Week 2: Slabs - Bowls and vases
Week 3: Coils - Flower pots
Week 4: Pinch pots - bird feeder
Week 5: 3 Lanterns
Week 6: Glazing
Week 7: Final Project
Week 8: Final Project Continued

*Payment options are available for this workshop. Please reach out to us at info@muddywaters.studio for more info

Dates

Monday, April 14, 20256:00 PM - 7:30 PM

Monday, April 21, 20256:00 PM - 7:30 PM

Monday, April 28, 20256:00 PM - 7:30 PM

Monday, May 5, 20256:00 PM - 7:30 PM

Monday, May 12, 20256:00 PM - 7:30 PM

Monday, May 19, 20256:00 PM - 7:30 PM

Monday, June 2, 20256:00 PM - 7:30 PM

Monday, June 9, 20256:00 PM - 7:30 PM

Homeschool Kids Art Classes
$140 Per Person / Ages 6 - 18
Instructor Leslie Kolke has worked with many groups of homeschool kids, using her art and interpersonal skills to tailor the lessons for every age and every level. School age kids will be met where ever they are at skill-wise, and will be challenged to push themselves in their own growth.

4 Classes Apr 7, 2025 - Apr 28, 2025

Join us to make some art in the Mornings! In April, our focus is on Art History. Join us to learn about different artists and time periods, and make cool projects while doing it!

Dates

Monday, April 7, 202510:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Monday, April 14, 202510:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Monday, April 21, 202510:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Monday, April 28, 202510:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Register for the Homeschool Kids Art Classes HERE and HERE.

Kids Painting Open Studio Class

$35 Per Person for Ages 6 - 18

Apr 3, 2025 from  1:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Have you ever painted with marbles? Or tissue paper? What is gouache?! Our Kid's Painting Open Studio will have multiple painting stations where kids will get to explore different painting materials and techniques. Kids can work their way through all the experiences, or hang out at the one they like best - they get to explore their own way. 

Drop off and pick up at any point during open studio. Kids will get to complete 2 projects each hour they hang out with us. The class fee listed covers 1 hour of painting. The purchase of additional open studio time or projects will be discussed at drop off. Drawing and coloring supplies will be provided for those that finish their paint projects quickly.

Register for the Kids Painting Open Studio Class HERE.

Starry Night

$40 Per Person12 Spots Left!

Apr 10, 2025 / 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Join us as we learn to paint our own version of one of the most iconic paintings of all time- Starry Night by Vincent Van Gogh! Along the way, we will learn how to use brushstrokes and color like the 19th century post-Impressionists did, and discuss some of the history behind Starry Night and Van Gogh himself.

Skill Level and Age Range- Any! Come learn with us and paint starry night in your own unique way.

Register for Starry Night Class HERE.

Open Studio - Friday & Sunday

$6 Per Person

Open studio is exactly how it sounds—it’s a time for openness and creativity to run free! Painters, potters, and creators of all skill levels are welcome to come in for unguided, open studio time. Our studio offers a bright environment that encourages fun and relaxation for adults, youth, and families.

Bring along a group of friends or family members, or come by yourself to meet other artists! Our studio is fully furnished with 3 potters’ wheels & 3 large tables with ample space to let your creativity flow freely. We focus on the process and the fun, so the goal is to come in and have a great time!

Open Studio time is $12 per hour per person. Clay must be purchased from Muddy Waters Studio. All clay materials (earthenware clay, glaze and firing) sell for $4.00 per pound of clay. Muddy Waters Studio does not permit the use of outside clay in the studio.

Various paint materials are available for purchase at Muddy Waters Studio, or you can bring in your own. You can also bring in other project materials as well.

**When you register for open studio time, you can come in ANYTIME during that session. **

** Open Studio cost depends on time and material purchased. Your $6 deposit will go towards your balance due during Open Studio time. **

Book the Friday Open Studio HERE and a Sunday Open Studio HERE.

Clay & Cocktails

$55 Per Person / Ages 18 and up

Gather a group of friends, kick back with a drink, and make something memorable. You’ll love the experience of making art with a refreshing drink in hand.

We offer a clay handbuilding and potter’s wheel demo to get you prepared, and then you’re free to create! Make and glaze an art piece of your own to take home.

This clay class is designed for individuals with any level of experience, so don’t be shy. Participants are welcome to replicate a project we display in the studio, use our idea cards, or come up with their own projects. The sky is the limit at Muddy Waters Studio!

Participants must be 18+ to sign up for this class and 21+ to consume alcohol. Bring your favorite beverage and enjoy the fun!

All art supplies are included in the class fee, and aprons are available for use during the class. Participants will be contacted when projects have been fired & are ready for pick up— 2-3 weeks after class.

Sign up today for an unforgettable art experience. We promise you’ll love it!

Upcoming Classes

Book the Clay & CocktaiIs Class HERE.

Maker's Choice

$55 Per Person / Ages 8 and up

Come in with an idea of what you wish to make, or browse our boxes of inspiration. You will receive a ball of clay to mold into whatever your heart desires. We will cover some clay basics, give a demo on the potter’s wheel, and then set you free to create!

This class is recommended for ages 8 through adult. All supplies are included in the class fee, and aprons are available for use during class. Participants will be contacted when projects have been fired & are ready for pick up— 2-3 weeks after class.

Book a Maker's Choice Class HERE.

Clay for Kids

$52 Per Person / Ages 6 - 12

If you’re a parent with art-loving kids, or any kids for that matter, this is the perfect class. Recommended for children ages 6-12 with minimal clay experience, the kids are welcome to replicate a project in the studio, use our idea cards, or come up with their own project.

For younger kids, it’s recommended that an adult or older kid helps them out. It’s perfect for parent-child bonding time, and you’ll love having joyful memories with your child. Experience the fun of clay creations and sign up with your kid today!

All supplies are included in the class fee, and aprons are available for use during class.  Parents will be contacted when projects have been fired & are ready for pick up— 2-3 weeks after class.

Sign up today for a great time with your child!

Upcoming Classes

Class Session

Apr 2, 2025 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

View Register

Class Session

Apr 30, 2025 6:00 AM - 8:00 AM

View Register

Class Session

May 28, 2025 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

View Register

Book a Clay for Kids Class HERE.

Teen Art

$50 Per Person / Ages 13 - 18

Participants will encounter a new prompt or question each week and have a chance to explore and share ideas, along with learn and try different art materials and techniques. Throughout the year we will work with different mediums like clay, paints - acrylic, gouache, watercolor, oil pastels, chalk, pencil, markers, etc…

This class is a unique opportunity for our local teens (13-19yrs old) to build an art community that works for them and represents them.

Upcoming Classes

Book Your Spot for Teen Art Class HERE. 

Clay Play for Little Ones

$25 Per Person / Ages 2 - 6

Clay Play is the perfect opportunity for young artists to get their hands messy and have some fun! What toddler doesn’t love to get messy and hands-on?

Children ages 2-6 are welcome to come in with an adult to squish, roll, build, and create with wet clay. We warn you—there’ll be lots of mess and lots of fun! Each child will choose a premade clay project (we have sharks, dinos, kitties, and everything in between!) They’ll glaze the project and once it’s been fired, they can take home their masterpiece.

All supplies are included in the class fee, a

Upcoming Classes

Class Session

Apr 8, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

View Register

Class Session

May 13, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

View Register

Register for the Clay Play for Little Ones Class HERE.

Makers Choice Clay Class

$45 Per Person / Ages 8 and up

Come in with an idea of what you wish to make, or browse our boxes of inspiration. You will receive a ball of clay to mold into whatever your heart desires. We will cover some clay basics, give a demo on the potter’s wheel, and then set you free to create!

This class is recommended for ages 8 through adult. All supplies are included in the class fee, and aprons are available for use during class. Participants will be contacted when projects have been fired & are ready for pick up— 2-3 weeks after class.

Upcoming Classes

Book a Makers Choice Clay Class HERE

Create on Canvas

$35 Per Person / Ages 6 - 12

Your young artist can enjoy this monthly painting experience again and again and again. Each month our project designed for children ages 6-12 will bring a new subject, new style, or new painting medium to the art table. With the patience of our experienced artist instructors, the step by step guidance provided in class ensures each child will find success in growing their artistic and creative skills. 

All supplies are included in the class fee, and aprons are available for use during class. 

Class Session Apr 16, 2025 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM View Register Class Session May 14, 2025 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM View Register

Book a Create on Canvas Class HERE

Pottery Wheel Lessons

$220.00

Spending time on a pottery wheel can be a zen experience. It can also be very infuriating! It is important to remember that building projects on a wheel is a skill, and it takes time to learn any skill. With the  patient guidance of our instructors, pottery wheel lessons will give you hands on experience with instruction focused on your level and your challenges. While it would be wonderful to be able to tell you just how long it will take you to master the pottery wheel, every person starts at a different place and learns at a different pace. Generally, participants can plan 4 one-hour lessons to give you a good foundation on the wheel. From there, participants can use open studio time to keep practicing those skills.  Upon purchase, you will receive an email with a code that will be used to "pay" for your sessions. Use the link in that email to schedule your lessons.Unless you've spoken with a Muddy Waters Studio instructor, please schedule TWO 30-minute lessons back-to-back, for a total of 60 minutes for each lesson. 

Schedule your Pottery Wheel Lessons HERE

Kids Parties at Muddy Waters

Let’s get together and celebrate! Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, doing some team building, or getting the neighborhood kids together, we promise a fun time! Creating art is the perfect way to recognize a special occasion and bond as friends or family.

We spend 1.5-2 hours creating a specially designed clay or paint project (your choice), followed by 30-60 minutes for snacks or food, or cake and opening gifts. It’s the perfect set-up to enjoy creating with loved ones and still experience the social fun of a party.

Our $255 party fee covers up to 12 project makers, so your price doesn’t fluctuate even if the guest list does. You’re also welcome to bring in food and/or drinks. 

All supplies are included in the party fee, and aprons are available for use during class. Adults will be contacted when clay projects have been fired & are ready for pick up -  2-3 weeks after the event.

Book Your Kids Party HERE

Adult and Group Parties

Nobody is too old for an art class! Get together a group of adults for a birthday, bachelorette, work outing, or simply just a fun artistic outing together. We encourage creativity and fun here at Muddy Waters Studio, no matter the age. We provide the space, equipment & tools, and hands-on guidance. All you have to do is show up!

Adult parties, or private events, are usually booked as a 2.5-hour block, and accommodate up to 12 project makers. 

Pricing is based on the number of participants. For a clay party, for 6-7 people, pricing is $45/person. For 8-12 people, pricing is $40/person. For 1-5 people, the fee is $225. 

For a painting party, pricing for 1-6 people is $225. For 7-12 people it is $35/person.

You are welcome to bring in food and/or drinks. 

All art supplies are included in the party fee, and aprons are available for use during class. Participants will be contacted when clay projects have been fired & are ready for pickup – 2-3 weeks after the event.

A $50 deposit will be collected to hold your reservation. The deposit will go toward the remainder of your balance, which is due the day of the event.

Book your Adult and Group Parties HERE.

Party at Your Place

We will bring the party to you!

Whether its for kids, adults, or a mix of the whole family, art parties are a lot of fun for everyone!

We can bring  painting parties,  or clay parties right to your doorstep.

This option is suitable for large groups, or as an option to incorporate into a larger event. 

We will bring all art supplies required for the project, and offer step-by-step guidance for maximum artistic success! You provide tables, chairs, and water access and we’ll take care of the rest.

A $50 deposit fee will be collected to hold your reservation, as well as a $40 traveling fee. The deposit will go toward the remainder of your balance, which is due the day of the event. 

Book Your Party at Your Place HERE

Are you looking for a Gift Idea?

Give a Gift Card to Muddy Waters Studio

Nothing goes farther than the gift of creativity! Birthdays, holidays, anniversaries, or just because. Our gift cards fit the purpose!

Click HERE to purchase your gift card/s.