Clayfolk
A community ceramics studio
in the heart of Folkestone
We Are Clayfolk
At Clayfolk, we’re more than just a ceramics studio — we’re a welcoming community of makers, artists, and learners based in the heart of Folkestone. Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience at the wheel, our space is designed to inspire creativity, experimentation, and connection.
Our mission is to provide fully equipped, accessible studio time alongside expert-led courses and workshops, so everyone can explore the art of clay in their own way. We believe pottery should be fun, inclusive, and open to all, and we can’t wait to see what you’ll make here.
Ellie Machin
A ceramics artist and tutor, with a lifelong love of clay and creativity. I’ve spent many years teaching and making, and I’m passionate about helping others explore their ideas through ceramics in an encouraging, hands-on way.
Jez Claustres
A designer and multi-discipline maker with a background in creative education. I love trying out new ways to work with clay and supporting others to grow their confidence and skills through creative exploration.
How we got here
Clayfolk was founded by Ellie and Jez, two makers brought together by a shared love of clay and a shared frustration at the lack of accessible studio space.
Ellie, an experienced ceramics tutor and technician at the Deal adult education centre, has spent years guiding students from their first pinch pots to complex glaze combinations.
Jez first met Ellie as a tutee, rediscovering a childhood passion for pottery after more than a couple of decades away from the wheel. When the much-loved classes became harder to access, many regulars, including Jez, were left searching for a place to continue their practice.
A year later, a conversation revealed that Ellie was looking to set up a new studio space - possibly in Folkestone.
The timing was perfect - Jez was also looking for a new creative direction and shared the same vision for an accessible, community-focused studio.
With Ellie’s technical ceramics background and Jez’s experience in design and making - both used to managing busy workshops, they decided to establish Clayfolk: a practical, well-equipped studio for people of all skill levels to learn, make, and connect through clay.