I started doing weekly pottery sessions at the local rec center a couple years ago, coming out of lock-down. But last fall I decided to commit more time, and joined a studio with 24hr access. Now I’m checking in almost daily to throw, trim, decorate, or see what’s fresh out of a firing.

The first several months of 2025 were dedicated practice – working my way through online courses from (mostly) Mea Rhee. I’ve also been taking assignments from friends – planters and ramen bowls and a tissue box cover for our new home, shallow dishes for Lars, a gaiwan tea set for Gwyn, a trinket tray for Rae…

I have a lot more that I’m excited to learn, but I’m also proud of how far I’ve come. This month I even started teaching beginner wheel throwing classes at Kinship Studio. I’ll be teaching the Tuesday class again in July, and registration is still open!

Since teaching covers my studio membership, I’m no longer spending money to make my pottery. First goal achieved! The next goal is to sell some pottery, then see if I can sell it consistently. I’m starting to pitch local shops, putting together a web store, trading pottery for hair cuts, and this weekend I participated in my first market!

I’m aware of the dangers that come with turning a hobby into a hustle, but right now I’m interested in anything that helps me spend more time in the studio. I’m already back to work on some commissions I’ve promised to local shops and also to family.

At some point I also need to find time for getting this website in a better state – ready to display (and sell) my work more easily.

If you’re interested in updates on my pottery or other creations, sign up for my new ‘Mia Culpa’ newsletter. It will be rarely used, but give you first access when I do have something new to show, or new work available in my online store.