Clay Café, a mom-and-son-owned pottery studio in the heart of Lubbock, has been a cherished local gem for over two decades.
As the first paint-your-own pottery studio in the area, it’s more than just a place to paint pottery—it’s a community cornerstone where creativity and self-expression come together.
Whether crafting a special keepsake, designing a thoughtful gift, or simply enjoying a hands-on experience with friends and family, Clay Café offers a welcoming space where guests of all ages can unleash their inner artist.
Cultivating a Space for Creative Freedom
From the moment you step inside, Clay Café’s cozy, welcoming atmosphere makes you feel right at home. Shelves line the walls, filled with pottery pieces waiting to be transformed into works of art. It’s the perfect place for gathering with loved ones while exploring your own creative process.
The studio’s mission is to encourage your creative freedom—there are no templates or step-by-step instructions. Unlike traditional painting experiences, where everyone ends up with similar pieces, Clay Café invites you to express yourself fully and create something truly unique.
Clay Café provides everything you need to get started: simply pick your pottery, grab your paints, and let your imagination run wild. With a wide selection of pottery—from plates and mugs to keepsake boxes and seasonal décor—there’s something for everyone. Clay Café also offers unlimited time and materials, so you can create without any pressure. If you need assistance with details like lettering or fine touches, the talented staff is happy to help, even adding up to 10 words for free.
As co-owner Davis explains, “Our only mission is ‘paint your own.’ You can walk in anytime, no reservation needed, and pick out your pottery and paint. We don’t charge extra for supplies or studio time.”
This simple philosophy of creative freedom is what makes Clay Café a one-of-a-kind experience.
If you can’t finish your masterpiece in one visit, take-home kits are available, or you’re welcome to return to complete your project—as many times as needed. With options like pottery painting, mosaics, and glass fusing, the possibilities are endless.
Where Creativity, Tradition, and Community Connect
Over the years, Clay Café has earned a reputation for creating unique keepsakes that families treasure for generations. A beloved tradition at the studio is the monthly handprint special, which has been a staple for more than 20 years.
Each month, families—sometimes even adults—can create personalized pottery pieces such as plates, mugs, and vases by adding a handprint, name, year, and a fun quote, all for just $35.
“We’ve done it for 20 years and never repeated design points, so it’s completely unique,” says co-owner Davis. “It’s been fun to watch families return. We’ve had people who brought their kids in at the beginning, and now they’re adults bringing their kids in.”
As demand grew, Clay Café expanded its offerings, transforming into a versatile creative space: what once served as a pottery studio for 50 people now accommodates over 100 guests. And the newly renovated party room, available for just $50 for two hours, can hold up to 36 guests on its own, providing an ideal space for families and groups to enjoy shared artistic experiences.
Clay Café is also renowned for its creative workshops and themed events.
In response to the increasing demand for handmade experiences during the pandemic, the studio introduced special nights like Taylor Swift Night, where guests paint pottery inspired by the pop star, and Over the Garden Wall Night, a whimsical celebration of the animated series. These events not only encourage creativity but also support local businesses through raffles and giveaways.
Beyond nurturing creative freedom, Clay Café is committed to social impact. The studio has long supported local organizations by donating handprint pottery to NICU families and contributing paint-your-own pieces to senior centers and other causes.
As Clay Café celebrates its 20th anniversary, it’s evident that the studio has grown beyond just a business—it’s a beloved community hub where creativity and connection come together.
Whether you’re crafting a personal keepsake, hosting an event, or simply enjoying pottery painting, Clay Café remains a space to express yourself and create lasting memories.
With its welcoming atmosphere, strong community ties, and dedication to making every experience special, it’s no wonder that Clay Café has been a Lubbock favorite for more than two decades.