Not Rules, But Definitely Guidelines: Studio Etiquette 101

1. Shower. Please. We're Begging You.

Four people. One table. Two to six hours. The math is not complicated.

Look, we wish this didn't need to be said. But if you've ever been trapped at a table with someone who skipped the basics, you know why it's first on the list. Shower. Wash thoroughly. Deodorant. The whole routine.

And it's not just body odor — bad breath and smoky or musty clothes can clear a table just as fast. Pop a mint. Wear something fresh. Your tablemates will notice, even if they're too polite to say anything.

Our studio is cozy. That's part of the charm. But "cozy" means there's nowhere to hide. Show up like you respect the people sitting next to you.

2. Play Like Other People Exist

Mahjong requires thought. Nobody's rushing you. Take a moment. Consider your options.

But if that "moment" stretches into a full dramatic pause while you scroll Instagram, reply to emails, or plan your grocery list — you've lost the thread.

Your tablemates are waiting. The game is waiting. The tiles are literally just sitting there. Stay present, keep the pace reasonable, and save your phone time for between rounds.

3. Your Phone Is Not a Player

Quick photo of a beautiful hand? Sure. Texting during someone else's turn? Fine, if you're subtle. But the moment your phone becomes the reason everyone's waiting on you, it's a problem.

Mahjong is one of the few activities left that doesn't require a screen. Lean into that. Be at the table — not just physically, but mentally.

4. Clean Up After Yourself (Yes, Like a Grown-Up)

When your session ends, leave the space better than you found it:

• Push in your chair
• Toss your trash
• Lay all the tiles face-down in neat rows so Mrs. K can wipe them down before the next group

This isn't just about being polite — it helps keep the sets complete and the games running on time. 

5. Other Things You Should Probably Know

Keep your hands to yourself. Don't touch other people's tiles. Don't peek at their hands. This isn't a heist movie.

No slamming tiles. Yes, it's dramatic. Yes, we've all seen it in the movies. But it can chip the tiles and startle your tablemates. Tap, don't whack.

Win with grace. Lose with dignity. Celebrate your wins — just don't gloat. And if the tiles aren't falling your way? Laugh it off. Mahjong is a long game. Your luck will turn.

Don't narrate someone else's hand. No guessing what they're building. No unsolicited advice mid-turn. Save the commentary for after the round — or better yet, keep it to yourself entirely.

Respect the rituals. If someone taps their tiles for luck, cracks the wall a certain way, or refuses to sit in a certain seat — just roll with it. Superstitions are part of the game. And honestly? They're kind of fun.

Be kind to beginners. Everyone started somewhere. If someone's new, offer gentle help — not a lecture. And if you're the beginner? Ask questions, keep up as best you can, and don't apologize for learning. We're glad you're here.

The Short Version

These aren't rules. But they're how we keep the studio a place people actually want to come back to — welcoming, clean, focused, and fun.

So: wash up, show up, play your best, clean your mess, and enjoy the game.

See you at the table.