Rhythm of Dots
Handmade speckled stoneware vase with colorful dots in red, navy, mint & gold. Curved form, glossy cream glaze. Perfect for boho flower decor by MFCarter Pottery, Vermont.
Santa Gnomes, Christmas Trees, and a Happy Clay Accident
A little “happy clay accident” in the studio: I whipped up some Santa gnomes and Christmas trees on a whim as a surprise for my partner, using simple cone templates as the base forms. What started as a quick, just-for-fun project turned into one of the most joyful, low-pressure making sessions of the season.
Greenleaf Vase
Handmade light green ceramic vase with a softly carved stem and leaf design, bringing calm, nature-inspired beauty and modern artisan charm to any space.
Eclipse Edge Vase
Searching for the Best Rainbow Mug, With AI in Tow
Vermont potter MFCarter explores rainbow mug designs using Perchance, an AI tool that turns word prompts into visual inspiration. From “sunset over Camel’s Hump” to fern-filled forest scenes, even the wildest ideas spark real ceramic creations. It’s a playful way to blend tradition with tech—perfect for artists and makers seeking fresh design ideas.
Rainbow Mugs
Brighten up your daily cup with colorful handmade pottery! I’m excited to share my latest work-in-progress: two rainbow mugs that explore vibrant design. Whether you love bold graphic lines or smooth, flowing colors, these mugs feature creative glazing techniques and are made for everyday use. Read on to discover the inspiration behind these cheerful mugs and what’s next on my pottery journey.
Whimsical Sole
Sometimes a clay project starts with one idea but transforms as it takes shape. Originally, I planned an elongated vase with a narrow opening. As I worked, the form shifted, resembling a shoe. This reminded me of children's sidewalk chalk drawings from my walks. Inspired, I shaped the piece into the Child’s Shoe—part vase, part sculpture—celebrating childhood’s joy and the playful spirit of creation.
Reverie Vase Final
The Reverie Vase is more than just a decorative object—it’s a story of artistry, patience, and imagination. Designed to embody both softness and curiosity, this handmade ceramic vase begins with an eggshell base, as gentle as morning light. From there, soft layers of violet and lapis glazes are brushed on, evoking fleeting thoughts and the quiet beauty of dusk turning into night.
Sunspore Bud Vase
Discover the quiet beauty of this handmade ceramic bud vase, crafted with care and intention. Featuring a rounded, slightly squat shape and a narrow opening at the top, this unique piece brings a sense of calm and groundedness to any space. The vase is finished in a pale yellow glaze with dark speckles and a subtly uneven texture, giving it a rustic, artisanal appearance that celebrates the charm of handcrafted ceramics.
Reverie Vase — Work in Progress
Reverie” is a hand-built ceramic vase layered with eggshell glaze and painterly dabs of Violet and Lapis—an experimental blend evoking serenity, curiosity, and twilight tones. A one-of-a-kind piece celebrating bold craftsmanship and the quiet thrill of the unknown.
The Nocturna Flora Vase. A poetic nod to dusk and the delicate weaving of nature. Part 2
After firing, the Nocturna Flora Vase emerged in deep midnight blues and subtle blues, with vine and leaf details making a gentle contrast. The glaze’s soft sheen and natural variations beautifully evoke the tranquil mood of dusk, making this piece a serene and elegant addition to any space.
Azure Veil Vase
I loved making this vase. The process was truly meditative for me—each step felt intentional and calming. I built Azure Veil from round coils rather than shaping it on a wheel. Building with coils fosters a direct, tactile connection to the clay because each coil is shaped, placed, and blended by hand.
A Work in Progress
Every piece begins with an idea, yet clay has a mind of its own. As I work, unexpected shifts in texture and structure lead me in new directions, reminding me that flexibility is key.
Maple Leaf Bowl 2
The Maple Leaf Bowl 2 is part of a series of ceramics using appliqué and different techniques.
Obsidian Tide
The Obsidian Tide vase is a striking fusion of depth and movement, crafted with precision and artistry. Its black foundation serves as a dramatic canvas for layered Pistachio Shino and Blue Shino glazes, flowing like currents over its form. Kiln firing reveals subtle variations, creating a rich interplay of texture and tone. A perfect blend of controlled technique and organic spontaneity, this handcrafted ceramic piece embodies contrast, elegance, and timeless craftsmanship.
Azure Coils
I have always been captivated by the way things are constructed, and I love incorporating that into the essence of my work. This vase was meticulously hand-built using rectangular coils, then finished with a rich azure glaze.
The Nocturna Flora Vase. A poetic nod to dusk and the delicate weaving of nature.
The Nocturna Flora Vase starts with careful shaping, bringing together smooth curves and intricate vine-like details. Designed to reflect the quiet beauty of nighttime, the piece takes form as textures and patterns develop. Once fully refined, it will undergo the firing process, which will deepen its tones and enhance its final appearance.
Saffron Moon Vase
A handcrafted ceramic vase with a soft, light orange color, inspired by the warm glow of moonlight. Delicate floral patterns are etched onto its surface, adding a touch of natural beauty. Standing approximately 6 1/4 inches tall and 6 1/2 inches wide.
Pedestal Bowl
A minimalistic bowl sits elegantly atop its pedestal, showcasing simplicity in form. The glaze features two distinct layers—one in deep black and the other in Pistachio Shino—creating a speckled texture that adds depth and intrigue to its design.
