Hamilton Craft Studios – FAQ

We’ve gathered some of the most common questions we receive about our studios, programs, memberships, and facilities. If your question isn’t answered here, please feel free to reach out to us at hello@hamiltoncraftstudios.com.

General Information

Where are you located?
121 Princess Street, Hamilton, just north of Barton Street East. If you’ve crossed the train tracks, you’ve gone too far! 

When are you open?

Office Hours: 10am - 4pm
Member Hours: Sunday–Saturday: 7:00am–11:00pm
Wood Studio Drop In Hours:
Thursday and Friday 4:00pm-9:00pm
Saturday and Sunday: 9:00am–5:00pm

Can I come for a tour?
Yes! Please reach out to book a time to come by for a visit.

Can I buy a gift or gift a course to someone?
Absolutely. You can purchase gift cards directly from our website or email us for course recommendations.

Memberships & Courses

Are your courses beginner friendly?
Most of our classes are designed with beginners in mind. Check individual listings to confirm the skill level.

Do I need experience to register?
Nope. We encourage people of all backgrounds and experience levels to join our programs.

Can I try a membership for one month?
Actually, ya - we’ve just changed our membership access to make it even more accessible. No more trial periods, no more long term commitment.

What are my membership options and pricing?
We offer tiered memberships for Ceramics, Textiles, and Woodworking. Options include monthly or quarterly billing, and each tier includes different levels of studio access. Please refer to our Memberships page for full details.

Do you offer subsidies or sliding scale programs?
Yes, if and when possible. We fundraise throughout the year to support free and subsidized programming. Email us to inquire about availability or to donate.

Studio Access & Use

Can I rent space?
Yes. We offer Emerging Artist Memberships with extra access and storage.

What tools/equipment are off limits?
Some specialized equipment is limited to trained users or Emerging Artists. We’re happy to offer training or direct you to a course that grants access.

Where can I store my work?
Each studio offers storage for a fee. Any large scale projects must be arrange ahead of time with staff.

Can I bring my pet or my child into the studio?
No, sorry. We love kids and offer kids programming regularly, but members can not bring in their kids during studio time. Children are only allowed at the studios during registered programs.

Can I bring a service animal with me when I am in the studio?
Ya, of course - you need them and they are more than welcome to be here.

Studio Programs

Do you offer ceramics/textiles/woodworking classes?
Yes—we offer a wide range of classes in all studios, for all levels. Check our website regularly for the latest offerings.

Can I use the wood studio without experience?
No. Even with experience we need to make an assessment through a hands-on safety test. Safety tests are administered for each studio machine, you will be able to use any machine which you are given a passing grade on during your safety test. For newcomers to woodworking - we recommend starting with our woodworking courses to build the necessary experience.

Materials & Supplies

Can I take tools or materials home?
HCS tools stay on site. Some project materials can go home (e.g. textiles), but others—like clay or wood—must remain in the studio for safety and logistical reasons.

Do I need to bring my own materials?
Members are responsible for their own consumables. Many materials are available for purchase at HCS, including clay, wood, fabric, thread, glue, and more. Clay specifically MUST be purchased through HCS in order to account for firing fees and glaze use.

Can I bring my own materials?
Yes, with a few exceptions. All clay must be purchased through HCS (it includes firing and glaze costs). For wood, please speak with the technician first.

Kids & Camps

What ages are your camps for?
Our kids programs are for ages 7–12, but vary here and there - check the ages in each course or workshop to see if your kid is the right age for the program.

Why is there HST on kids camps?
HCS is a private studio and must charge HST on all offerings.

Do you offer early drop-off or late pick-up?
Not currently. We hope to expand our services as our capacity grows.

Private Events & Workshops

Can I host an event at HCS?
Yes! From birthday parties to community gatherings, we offer event rentals and private workshops. Email us to get started.

Can you run a workshop for my group or event?
Absolutely. We’ll work with you to plan something accessible, hands-on, and fun. Clay and textiles are our most popular options. Email us to start planning your next event at HCS.

Can I hire someone to build or make something for me?
Probably! We’ll connect you with a qualified artist from our network or help find someone who can take on your project.