Mayor Donna Deegan stopped into Doing Dishes Pottery Studio on Friday, Aug. 7, posing with staff in the kiln room and watching customers paint at the Mandarin shop that has been open for 22 years.

The visit was part of Deegan's ongoing series of small business stops across Jacksonville. She called the studio at San Jose and University boulevards "a local gem" in a post on X that afternoon.

"It's a great place for a field trip, date night, or if you are just feeling creative," Deegan wrote.

Owners Katie and Brian run the paint-your-own pottery and fused-glass studio at 5619 San Jose Blvd. The couple also operates a second location at the Avenues Mall. Katie developed her love for pottery painting in college and while working for the State of Florida, according to the studio's website.

The Mandarin location stocks more than 300 bisque pieces priced from $8 to $80. The price covers paint, glazing and firing in the shop's on-site kilns, and finished work is ready for pickup in one week.

Walk-ins are welcome, though the studio recommends reservations for guaranteed seating. Regular hours are Tuesday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; and Sunday, noon to 6 p.m. The studio is closed Mondays.

The City of Jacksonville's Facebook page posted video of the visit, drawing more than 1,600 views. Doing Dishes thanked the mayor and her team on its own Facebook page the same day.

Stoneware Social returns Aug. 29

The studio is also gearing up for its next Stoneware Social on Saturday, Aug. 29. The evening event invites guests to pick a stoneware piece, paint it and enjoy a creative night out. Spaces are limited and advance registration is required, according to the studio's Facebook page.

Reservations and more information are available at doingdishes.com or by calling 904-730-3729.

Upcoming in Mandarin

  • Doing Dishes Stoneware Social, Saturday, Aug. 29, at 5619 San Jose Blvd. Advance registration required.
  • Doing Dishes Pottery Studio is open for drop-in visits Tuesday through Sunday at 5619 San Jose Blvd.
  • The Mandarin Farmers Market operates Saturdays at Mandarin Park, 14780 Mandarin Road.