The Mad Potter

Houston, United States

3.5

Open now

20 reviews

Accepts Credit Cards

Contacts

QR code, vCard

Telephone:
+1 713-807-8900
Website:
www.themadpotter.com
Address:
1963 W Gray St, Houston, TX, 77019
River Oaks, Montrose
Nearby public transportation stops & stations:
1.9 miEnsemble/HCC (Northbound)
1.9 miEnsemble/HCC (Southbound)
2 miWheeler Station (southbound)
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Bussiness info

Accepts Credit Cards
Yes
Parking
Private Lot
Wheelchair Accessible
Yes
Dogs Allowed
Yes

Today

Today 10:00 am – 10:00 pm
Open now
Local time (Houston) 1:22 PM Wednesday, April 23, 2025

Business hours

Monday 10:00 am – 10:00 pm
Tuesday 10:00 am – 10:00 pm
Wednesday 10:00 am – 10:00 pm
Thursday 10:00 am – 10:00 pm
Friday 10:00 am – 11:00 pm
Saturday 9:00 am – 11:00 pm
Sunday 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Description

Specialties

The Mad Potter, paint your own pottery studios, are for children and adults alike to come in and paint pre-​made ceramic pieces from coffee mugs to plates, pet bowls to figurines and much more! — Groups and individuals of all ages are inspired by our piece selection, design tools, idea books and friendly instruction. It is so easy: Grab your friends and family, pick a piece from our extensive inventory, design your piece, pick your colors and relax painting. Leave it with us and we’ll glaze & fire it, and in 3 — 4 days your masterpiece will be fired and ready for pick-​up.

History

Established in 1998.

The Mad Potter Paint-​your-​own-​Pottery Studio was founded in April 1998, with its first studio in the River Oaks Shopping center on West Gray. It was opened with the intention of not only catering to the families and schools in the area, but also to the corporate businesses of downtown. By adding the sales of Wine and Beer to the paint-​your-​own-​pottery concept, The Mad Potter now appealed to adults, as well as children. The combo proved to be an instant hit. In the initial fledgling year, every one of Houston’s major law firms had booked a recruiting event for their summer associates. By the fall of 1999, Mad Potter «West» was opened on Woodway/​Voss. Miss McCord followed this up in 2002 with another location in the Meyerland/​Bellaire area.

The Mad Potter’s mission is to provide a fun and creative place for families, friends and co-​workers of all artistic levels to come and paint pottery.

The Mad Potter also recommends

The Mad Potter

25

reviews

Arts & Crafts

,

Party & Event Planning

The Mad Potter says,

«The Mad Potter has 3 Houston area locations! Drop by The Mad Potter-​Bellaire, located in Meyerland Plaza (Beechnut @ 6 – 10).»

The Mad Potter — CLOSED

15

reviews

Arts & Crafts

The Mad Potter says,

«The Mad Potter has 3 Houston area locations! Drop by The Mad Potter — West, located next to Voss Yogurt/​Buffalo Grille (S.E Corner of Voss & Woodway)»

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20 reviews of The Mad Potter

No registration required
Place rating: 3
Houston, TX
It’s a cool place to spend hours unplugged and actually talking to someone. Great date night idea. If you don’t finish, take your piece with you and come back for free whenever you want to finish it. They serve wine & a few snacks here, but there are plenty of eateries within walking distance.
Place rating: 1
Houston, TX
I’ve never been treated so poorly by an «assistant manager» in my life. I went in a few weeks ago with the groupon. After informing them I had the groupon they said I had to spend $ 40. So I painted two pieces. The entire time they acted like it was a huge inconvenience to refill our paint and gathered up front talking. Then when we went to pay the assistant manager informed us we couldn’t use a groupon bought the same day. They offered no solution and forced us to pay cash for the items. Though she kept having to confirm with another employee, when I asked to speak With the manager she said she was in charge. I didn’t even want the piece and ended up spending twice as much money for pieces I didn’t want but was told I had to get. I’ll never go back.
Place rating: 4
Houston, TX
Came here with some girlfriends and it was a really fun experience. We got to paint pottery (I tried the lace technique that came out horribly lol) and have great conversation! The staff is super friendly and sweet!
The only cons were that: We had no idea the wine night was an additional $ 15 to your pottery choice. Also, the ceramics seemed a little bit overpriced.
Place rating: 2
Houston, TX
Came here with my daughter on a Saturday afternoon. When we walked in, we stood by the door for a little bit and then were greeted by a staff member. First question she asked was «is this your first time?» I told her yes. She said that to start we needed to pick out our pieces and then we could share a table with another guest. It wasn’t necessarily busy, there were 1 – 3 people at each table and it was relatively quiet in there but all tables were taken. Thankfully a family of 3 let my daughter and I sit down and share their table.
We picked out our ceramics, then sat down… and waited. The staff member that had greeted us was chatting with another staff member. I finally gave up and asked the family at the table «so, what do we do next?» So this nice lady told us to fill out these cards with our colors. She explained everything that the staff should have. So then after we filled out our cards, we waited again. At this point I was getting pretty irritated with the staff. I told you it was our first time and there were no instructions given. I approached her and said «Hi, I filled out my colors what do I do next?» She took our cards and assured me she’d get us our colors. She came back rather promptly. Then we started painting. We ran out of paint pretty quick. And once again we found ourselves waiting. I could go on. We found ourselves sitting around and waiting constantly. We couldn’t chase down a staff member to save our lives.
I love the concept but it was a really frustrating experience. I do think their ceramics are little overpriced as well. They need to be aware that not everyone knows what they are doing there. I’ve never been to a painting place like that. It would have been nice to have a more helpful staff.
Place rating: 3
Houston, TX
Went here on a date. We walked in but were told we would have to wait for thirty minutes because someone had a reservation that took up three tables.
We didnt mind and we’re looking around at pottery when a table opened up after about ten minutes.
The pottery prices were a little pricey.
They give you a sheet and a chart that shows you the colors with the glaze and how the end result will be. You only get to choose 5(maybe 6??) colors on this little palette.
The guy who helped us didn’t tell us too much but we heard from other employees telling other people about painting every place three times and that there were stencils and stamps in the drawer!
We were painting a mug and cat bowl and the stencils would’ve been great for the cat bowl but oh well.
We were wanting to order a drink but no one ever came around…
We ended up having to get up and go get our own paint. Which I don’t think we were supposed to do after I saw employees getting it for other tables but whatever…
We were there for quite some time and right as we were leaving the big table party showed up!
Some of the people that were turned away could have painted and been done by the time they got there.
Then when we went to pick up the pottery it hadn’t been packed or anything. We had to go to this shelf and pick ours out. I feel like someone will steal someone else’s when theirs turns out ugly…
I really loved the place and that they had seasonal pottery for Halloween!
Can’t wait to see what they have for Christmas!
Hopefully we’ll have a better experience next time…
Place rating: 5
Houston, TX
We came to this location today at around two, after seeing that the place was booked for a private party earlier on. There were a lot of people painting when we arrived, and we took a long time deciding on which pieces to paint and what to do with them, but the staff were very friendly and helpful. They did not rush us at all. As we painted (for around 2.5 hours), the place soon became crowded, but they still did not rush us. There were three of us, so we each paid our $ 8 paint fee and the price of our pieces. I should have brought another friend to take advantage of the deal on Unilocal (bring three friends, get free paint) or even checked the calendar for free paint days/​$ 2 off Tuesdays, etc! I have been to this Mad Potter several times prior as well as the one on Beechnut. The service has been consistent throughout, and the employees offer advice on how to achieve the look you want (or fix your mistakes as you screw up). My pieces were always ready on time. I prefer this location over the Beechnut location even though my experiences at both places were very pleasant. This location felt more cozy and welcoming.
Place rating: 5
Las Vegas, NV
Had a great time here :) it’s an $ 8 studio fee and then whatever you buy. You can stay however long you want! It’s very organized from places I’ve been to before as well.
My friend painted a cupcake and I painted a bread plate!
Place rating: 1
Houston, TX
This is not our first experience with the Mad Potter (see other review for Beechnut location). We were hoping that we would have a better experience at this location. Unfortunately, this was not the case.
First, the employee that helped us (Celeste), got our paint orders, put it on a shelf close to the paints, and walked away to the other side of the store to chat with another employee who was helping another customer. She was there for at least 5 – 10 mins. My wife went to ask about our paint supplies and she (Celeste) answered with condescending «YES?!».
My wife returned our table while Celeste returned to the painting station to prepare our paints. She returned to our table with the first order of paints and carelessly threw the order on the table in front of my wife without saying a word.
She was so unpleasant, my wife decided she did not want to paint.
My daughter and I continued with our pieces and I needed more paint. Celeste ignored us and never checked on us, I had to get other employees to refill our paints and complete our order.
I am completely disappointed with Mad Potter overall as a company. It seems their employees have no concept of customer service or care about their job. This experience has basically sealed my opinion about the company and I will not spend my money or be a customer of theirs from now on. I will seek out a local pottery place which provides the same service even if it costs more if I choose to do this again.
Place rating: 2
Austin, TX
This is a great place to go to have fun. However, DO NOT assume your order is ready when they say it’s ready! Call before to ask. There’s a good chance they didn’t get to it.
I was told mine would be ready by Saturday at 4pm. I went in at 4pm on Sunday and it wasn’t ready. The assistant manager told me he will have it done in 30 mins. I decided to leave and return Monday at 3:30pm, and there was an issue still and my work was not finished.
This was a birthday gift and now I can’t give my father his gift on time, which is heartbreaking.
Place rating: 2
Houston, TX
I bought a Groupon for two and went on Monday night, not knowing that the studio fee is waived on Monday’s, so that was great!
Overall my mother in law and I had a great time, however, the customer service definitely fell short.
I didn’t know that the staff bring you the paints. I was convinced the girl had two of my colors wrong, but she said she didn’t. Well, now that I’ve picked up my piece, she did.
While we were waiting for our paint to be refilled all three of the employees were hanging out behind the counter, rather then checking on their customers. At one point I asked about an event they were promoting (Empty Bowl) and the man (who I think may be the manager) just handed me a brochure, didn’t even say two words. Very strange, and awkward.
I painted stripes on my piece and when I finished, the girl said «Oh you should have used tape for the lines» — I had no idea there was tape available. Would have been nice if she checked in sooner and made this observation, or told us what was available when we chose our items, knowing it was our first time there.
Additionally, I was told our pieces would be available on Saturday. I went on Saturday to find a sign on the door that they were closed for a private party. Frustrating. When I went back later that day, the guy that was there (who was very nice and attentive) searched for 15 minutes only to find that our items hadn’t been fired yet. So I had to make a third trip out on Monday to pick up our items.
I would probably go again as we had a great time together, but really feel that the customer service is lacking, which was a disappointment.
Place rating: 4
Houston, TX
This is a great place to paint pottery… if you want to paint pottery. I don’t completely get it. I mean, I guess it’s fun, but it is too expensive for what you end up getting. Something I paint is never going to be worth $ 20+.
But, if you must paint pottery, I like Mad Potter and I like this location. The staff were all really friendly. There was wine and beer for sale (and snacks).
It was pretty crowded on a Saturday night, so apparently lots of people truly enjoy painting pottery.
It’s pretty fun if you’ve never tried or just want to do something different.
Place rating: 4
Houston, TX
This is such a fun place! It’s great for a fun date or gathering with friends. When you arrive, you choose a piece of pottery you’d like to paint plus an additional $ 8 to use their paint.
Pros:
— they have a great variety of pottery you can choose from (frames, piggy banks, plates, bowls, cups, etc)
— people there are very friendly and don’t rush you while you paint (we were there for almost 3 hours)
— they offer drinks if you’d like an extra kick to your painting experience
— Tables for painting are well spaced out so you didn’t feel squished
— surprisingly, there wasn’t a smell to the place. very neutral (no strong paint/​pottery smell)
Cons:
— I wish the people offered a bit of advice on painting (e.g. you should put on several coats of paint if it’s a dark color)
— You have to wait 2+ weeks to get your piece (you take the risk of it possibly not turning out right or getting ruined in the kiln)
Place rating: 5
Memorial, Houston, TX
Fun place to paint. You pay for the pottery and $ 8 for the painting materials. From there, it’s all up to you. About 50 different «pottery» items to choose from and 100 colors.
Had a good time here and would go back. Staff is friendly and willing to help!
Place rating: 4
Humble, TX
This is such a cool outing! Went here for a girls night/​birthday celebration! This is a lot of fun, choosing your piece, choosing colors and going to town making it your own!
The people here are so helpful and give great advice! And definitely it looks better than when you leave it to be put in the kiln! Hope to come back with my daughter!
Place rating: 5
Houston, TX
Sometimes a girl gets the urge to do something creative. Maybe it’s from spending way to many hours working or maybe it’s from pinning too many things on pinterest…
Well, a friend of mine invited me to Diva Night here at Mad Potter, and what a fantastic way to do something creative. At first, I was a little intimidated. There are so many various items you can choose from. I picked a little tiki shot glass — small and simple enough to complete.
My girlfriends and I all made our selections, were served wine (one of the diva night perks!), and got spend some quality time creating, chatting, and drinking. Another perk is getting to bring your own snacks– so our group got to enjoy some pretty tasty treats from the nearby Kroger and Whole Foods. After I finished my shot glass and got the hang of how it all works, I decided to do a tray and try out the lace technique. It’s really fun and beautiful.
I highly recommend diva night (and yes, men can come on diva night, too)…
For $ 15 plus the price of your piece you get:
– unlimited wine and beverages
– a «creative» happy hour if you will with your friends
– a feeling of accomplishment since you have enough plenty of time to finish 1 – 2 pieces
Since the first Diva Night visit back in August, I’ve been back here three times. One of the outings was picked as a birthday week activity. And we all had a blast!
Some tips:
– Beware: This can become a pretty addictive and pricey activity!
– Do take advantage of the no painting fee on days that you pick up an already painted piece.
– Bring snacks!
– First timers: pick something simple and do-​able.
– Bring friends! It’s so much more entertaining and fun.
Place rating: 4
Houston, TX
I have been eyeing this place for a very long time, finally went in to make a memento for a girls day out. The staff was helpful in explaining how it works. We even ordered our own food from CPK!
The staff kept on checking on us as we asked for colors and advice to paint our creations.
Would surely return and recommend this place to anybody who wants to remember a special occasion. Also a good date place.
Place rating: 5
Houston, TX
I came back, and really, I feel as if I’m back at least 3 times a year — — at least! The staff is so helpful and will help anyone who needs help. There are quite a few people who are awesome artists and produce great things! I, however, come here to make a gift that only a loved one would appreciate. Plus, I love Diva Night. Coming here with a bunch of ladies is always fun and relaxing on a Thursday night. The staff provided cookies, cupcakes, and wine. It was lovely! ANd, they had a raffle :) Now, who doesnt love a raffle?
Free things + sugar treats + wine + painting = super awesome evening! :)
I know I’ll be back (to pick up my holiday gift for grammy!). :)
Place rating: 4
Sugar Land, TX
I LOVE The Mad Potter! I’ve been here many many times. I’ve had my birthday here, held a couples shower here, and just hung out with friends. I’m not very artistic, and the fact that I can make a lovely piece of pottery based on some colors and filling in some space on a blank piece of pottery is great!
The couples shower was great! Everyone there made a single square tile and eventually they were combined and made into a serving tray. For my birthday, we all ate dinner down the street and spent the evening here making our own pottery pieces.
The Mad Potter is great for kids, but it is also great for adults. It’s a great date night!
Place rating: 2
Austin, TX
Love this place, hate the service.
They have a pretty good selection of paints and pottery here, I like to frequent the ceramic animals section. Like other reviewers mentioned, it does get pricey quickly but they do Groupons occasionally that make it a pretty good deal.
As far as the service, the girls who work here are all hipsters in skinny jeans and nose rings who just sit up at the front counter painting while I have to give them a sad, helpless puppy face to get more paint. I came here very excited to pick up my pottery the other day only to find out that one of the hipsters forgot to start the kiln so it wasn’t ready as promised. Well great, i just drove 30 minutes on $ 4/​gallon gas to talk about your incompetency.
Place rating: 4
Houston, TX
This is not a place for indecisive people. It took me forever to figure out what to paint since you have a ton of options (cups with handles, cups without handles, small cups, tall cups, little plates, big plates, small bowls, big bowls…) and you get a piece of paper where you write down what color paints you want (this took even longer trying to figure out what colors i wanted my mug to be) and finally after this long & tedious process… I managed to create the ugliest mug I have ever seen.
However, this is completely my fault and not mad potter’s fault. Mad potter is actually a really fun place to hang out and have fun. There ared eals every month so definitely check their events calendar. This place is a great if you want to make a custom gift for someone. You paint and come back a few days later to pick up whatever you made after it’s been fired and glazed. My mug is so ugly that I can’t bring myself to pick it up. Next time I’ll know not to paint dots because dots drip and you end up with a pink mug (I don’t even like pink!) with a bunch of dripping dots all over.