Ceramics studio is ‘All Fired Up’

Small businesses are always opening here. Some of them don’t succeed, while others do. One successful approach comes with an attempt to fill a niche market where the business offers a services not in competition with the bigger box retailers — even the ones in Las Vegas.

That is the mindset of Angela Kellough, who will open All Fired Up Ceramics &Pottery Studio. The facility is located at 2210 Commercial Dr. and a soft opening is set for Jan. 10 with a grand opening Jan. 11.

Kellough said she moved to Pahrump in September 2010 and saw a need for “something to do other than gamble and play bingo.”

Her studio will open in stages with the first offerings being greenware, or clay objects which have been formed and dried but not decorated and heated to cure in a kiln. The firing process, called bisque firing, converts the clay to ceramic.

“We will sell all kinds of objects from tableware, which people can custom decorate to a matching set, to home decor items.”

Kellough said if someone has no artistic experience, she will have in-house artists to paint the designs for you, or offer instruction so you can do it yourself. The studio will also sell supplies such as brushes and acrylic paints.

The next step for the shop will be the addition of pottery supplies such as the different types of clay and the tools used to form the pieces. Kellough will offer classes in pottery as well and host workshops, which she equates to “our version of Canvas &Cocktails,” a gathering of artists to paint and have a libation or two.

There are several chapters all over the country, including one in Las Vegas, which normally meet in a public place such as a meeting room in a casino or a banquet room of a restaurant.

Instruction is offered during the events to make it not only a workshop for the experienced, but a learning adventure for those who are beginners.

Kellough plans to offer jewelry casting and the making of glass beads, medallions which can be drilled or set in a fixed backing, and stained glass. “It’s going to take time to get all these things in place,” Kellough said. “We have to get open first.”

Right now, Kellough is working on inventory of her greenware, stocking supplies and setting up the work stations for artists.

Asked about networking her new endeavor, Kellough said, “I tried the join the Pahrump Arts Council but was told ceramics didn’t fit the criteria set by the Nevada Council for the Arts.”

The organization offers grant funding to its members and in order to qualify for funding, other organizations must meet its criteria.

“Still, all the PAC members are my friends and I have their individual support.

Kellough hasn’t set permanent hours of operation yet, but said she plans to be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., six days per week.