The Best Rainbow Mug?
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.
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.
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.
Maple Leaf Vase
This piece is part of a recently completed series where I explored the interplay between natural forms, intricate surface details, and the earthy tones of shino glazes. As the third in the series, this small vase captures a sense of organic elegance with its maple leaf appliqué.
Turquoise Moon Vase
Rustic Charm Vase
Ceramic Art Therapy Part II
When I was working on a piece a little while ago, I was overwhelmed with life events that were happening. The clay I was working on at the time was not cooperating. Out of frustration, I decided to scrap my original project which wasn’t working at all and create something new.
Orchid Pot in Progress
Discover the art of pottery with our latest update! We’ve achieved a significant milestone in the glazing process of our unique leaf design. By carefully applying a layer of wax resist, we’ve ensured the preservation of the intricate details that make this piece stand out. This crucial step acts as a protective barrier, maintaining the design’s integrity by preventing any further glaze from altering its appearance. Currently, the pot is strategically positioned upside down, with the wax resist also applied to its base for additional protection against glaze. Follow our journey as we meticulously bring this pottery piece to life, one step at a time!
Goldenrod Shino Vase with Blue Glaze Accents
When I mold clay, I dance with creativity, refusing the mundane. My pottery is a canvas where I paint my soul’s whispers. Each piece, a secret shared between me and the universe.
Sweet Happy Accidents
You know, even with the most meticulous plans, there are moments when things simply don't fall into place.
Desert Oasis Carved Vase
The "Desert Oasis Carved Crest Vase" is my 7.75-inch-tall ceramic marvel with Espresso Bean and Desert Sage glazes. Carved grooves adorn its 6.5-inch width, adding texture and depth. Perfect for floral arrangements, this vase features a 4.25-inch opening. Elevate your decor with this unique, handcrafted piece.