THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Turn a ceramic wine cooler into a writable classroom-style blackboard in a focused two-hour workshop in New Bern. Ideal for teachers, parents, and travelers who want a hands-on, photogenic keepsake.
Turn a ceramic wine cooler into a writable classroom-style blackboard in a focused two-hour workshop in New Bern. Ideal for teachers, parents, and travelers who want a hands-on, photogenic keepsake.
Book with The Accidental Artist
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Operated by The Accidental Artist · New Bern, North Carolina
Blackboard Wine Cooler -Technique Class teaches a playful pottery technique in New Bern, North Carolina, where a two-hour workshop turns a ceramic wine cooler into a writable classroom-style blackboard. Set in a small studio within historic New Bern, the session focuses on surface preparation, paint layering, and finishing touches so your piece will accept chalk, banners, doodles, and daily reminders. The class is open to anyone 16 and up and accommodates groups of up to 15, making it a social, hands-on way to work with clay and glaze without a long-term commitment. The experience centers on a single, satisfying project: transforming a functional ceramic cooler into an object that looks, feels, and writes like a mini chalkboard. Instructors demonstrate paint application, sanding, sealing with non-toxic finishes, and adding decorative details - lettering, borders, and tiny painted icons - so each cooler becomes personal and classroom-ready. Materials are provided; students can expect to learn basic brush technique, surface distressing for a weathered look, and how to apply a writable finish that holds up to use. Beyond the workbench, this class is part of New Bern's lively maker scene. The town's colonial streets and nearby waterfront offer a full-day itinerary: wander Tryon Palace grounds, visit local galleries, and grab coffee downtown before or after your session. The studio's compact format and two-hour length make it an ideal stop for families prepping back-to-school decor, teachers seeking classroom flair, or travelers who want a tactile souvenir that doubles as decor. Practical details are straightforward: sessions last roughly two hours, the minimum age is 16, and group size tops out at 15. Expect to leave with a finished, usable piece once sealed; some decorative or firing steps may be completed later by the studio depending on kiln availability - ask at check-in. Wear clothes you don't mind getting paint on and arrive a few minutes early for a quick materials briefing. This workshop stands out because it teaches a specific, repeatable finish that turns ceramics into writable surfaces - a niche skill that's both decorative and functional. The emphasis on non-toxic finishes and small-group attention makes it accessible for beginners while still offering room for creative detail. For visitors to New Bern, it's a hands-on cultural stop: practical, photogenic, and rooted in a community of makers. Plan to combine the class with a stroll along the waterfront, a visit to Tryon Palace's gardens, and a meal at one of the town's small cafés. The studio can accommodate last-minute bookings but confirm spot online via the provided booking link. Whether you're a teacher personalizing a classroom prop, a parent crafting a creative gift, or a traveler chasing local makers, this short, skill-focused class delivers tangible results and a storytelling keepsake to bring home pride.
easy.
2 hours.
Light - mostly standing and fine-motor handwork; suitable for most fitness levels
No. The class is designed for beginners and focuses on surface technique rather than wheel throwing.
Most pieces are usable after sealing; if kiln firing is required for certain finishes, the studio will arrange pickup or hold it until firing is complete.
Minimum age is 16; anyone 16 or older may join with valid ID requested at check-in.
Materials for the wine cooler project are provided; bring only personal protective items like an apron if desired.
Group size is limited to 15 to ensure individual attention from instructors.
Private bookings may be possible depending on studio availability; contact the studio via the booking link to request group reservations.
New Bern, founded in 1710, is a colonial-era town with preserved architecture and cultural institutions like Tryon Palace nearby.
The studio emphasizes non-toxic finishes and proper waste handling; bring reusable containers for paint water when recommended to minimize waste.
The Accidental Artist is a hands-on ceramics and pottery studio located in New Bern, North Carolina. The studio offers a rotating schedule of guided classes and creative experiences including clay lantern building, textured fish plaques, vegetable stamping, pottery painting, a New Bern skyline sushi server workshop, pop‑tart light switch covers, and seasonal projects like a hot dog penguin craft. Classes range from one-night workshops to multi-step projects that include glazing and firing; completed pieces are available for pickup after kiln firing. The Accidental Artist also provides curated birthday party packages, field trip experiences for schools and groups, and special event packages for private gatherings. Friendly instructors guide participants through step-by-step techniques for forming, decorating, and glazing in a relaxed, beginner-friendly environment. The studio accommodates families, children, adults, and small groups seeking memorable, maker-focused activities in a welcoming setting. Safety, clear instruction, and quality materials are emphasized; all clay is kiln-fired and professionally glazed. Located in downtown New Bern, the studio connects local inspiration with practical craft instruction and keeps class sizes comfortable to preserve individual attention. Reservations are recommended for scheduled classes and party bookings due to limited seats. Gift certificates and walk-in pottery painting options may be available seasonally.
Book with The Accidental Artist