Sculpture House

For 125+ years, Sculpture House has provided sculptors with quality sculpting tools and materials for clay modeling, stone and wood carving and mold making.

In 1883 John Ettl immigrated from Hungary to the US and founded the Ettl Studios in New York City. Ettl Studios was known for the creation of monumental castings. Joined by his sons Charles and Alex in 1918, the family expanded the business with the addition of hand crafted sculpture tool production. Very quickly, Ettl Studios was as well known for its unparalleled tool manufacturing as it was for its monumental castings, thus prompting the name change to Sculpture House in 1942.

The Barrie family purchased the company in 1965 and by 1973 Standard Clay Mines, Sculpture Associates and National Sculpture Services were combined under one roof into Sculpture House, as it is known today.

Bruner tuned into the clay culture of the 1970s and 1980s. In 1973, he wanted to promote the ceramic and clay industry and planned an event at the Princeton Farm. “We got about 6 wheels and planned to give everyone 50 pounds of clay. We promoted it as a ‘Pot Party.’ People showed up and wondered where the pot was!” Despite the colorful family history, Bruner credits his father’s friendship with Alex Ettl for laying the seeds for his strong work ethic.

Bruner says that when his wife Nancy pointed out that he is approaching age 75 and suggested that it is time for him to retire, he needed to make some changes. As one of the chosen companies, we will attempt to maintain the quality and professionalism that Bruner has always insisted upon!!!

Class Return Policy

Return Policy for Classes at The Compleat Sculptor

We strive to ensure a positive experience for all our students. Please review our return policy carefully before registering for a class:

Refund Deadlines

  • 90% Refund: A refund less a 10% will be issued if you cancel at least 14 days before the scheduled class start date.

  • Partial Refund: A 50% refund will be issued for cancellations made between 7 to 13 days before the scheduled start date.

  • No Refund: No refunds will be issued for cancellations made 6 days or less before the class start date. However, you may be eligible for a class credit (see below).

Class Credit Policy

If you are unable to attend the class and cancel at least 3 days before the start date, you may apply 50% of the amount of your payment as a credit toward a future class of your choice within the next 6 months. No credits will be issued for cancellations made less than 3 days before the start date.

Transfers to a Different Class Date

You may transfer to another class date if you notify us at least 7 days before the scheduled start date. Transfers are subject to availability and may include a processing fee of 25%.

Class Cancellation by The Compleat Sculptor

If we must cancel a class due to unforeseen circumstances (e.g., low enrollment, instructor unavailability, etc.), you will have the option to:

  • Receive a full refund.

  • Transfer to a future class date of your choice.

 

Emergency Exceptions

We understand that emergencies happen. If you are unable to attend a class due to unforeseen circumstances, please contact us at orders@sculpt.com** or 212-243-6074** as soon as possible. Exceptions to the above policies will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

How to Cancel or Request a Refund/Transfer

To cancel your registration, request a refund, or transfer to another class, please contact us:

Provide your name, class details, and reason for cancellation or transfer in your request.

We thank you for choosing The Compleat Sculptor and look forward to having you in class!