Meet The Vermont Potter Behind MFCarter Ceramics:
Nature-Inspired Ceramics from Essex Junction Studio
I’m MFCarter — Mark Carter — a potter based in Essex Junction, Vermont. Most mornings begin on the winding trails here, where wildflowers, tree bark, river stones, snow, and ice offer quiet sparks of inspiration. Those small Vermont details find their way into my handbuilt pottery: coiled vases, textured bowls, Santa Gnomes, and other pieces shaped by Wabi‑Sabi, the beauty of things perfectly imperfect.
At the heart of my work is a simple truth: I care deeply about this craft and the people who are drawn to it. Pottery is a conversation — between clay and hands, between maker and viewer, between the everyday object and the person who chooses to bring it home. My hope is that each piece carries a bit of Vermont’s calm, a bit of my own joy in making, and something that resonates with anyone who loves handmade work.
It’s great that you’ve come to visit and see my work. Pottery is a conversation between the maker, the clay, and the person who holds the finished piece. I’m glad you’re part of that conversation today.
My Wabi-Sabi Philosophy
Perfection feels sterile. I embrace the Japanese aesthetic where cracks, asymmetry, and quirks that breathe life into ceramics. No two pieces leave my studio identical; kiln-fired glazes pool unpredictably, coils form rugged textures, creating raw, organic beauty.
The Making Process
Photos and Trail Sketching: Nature walks spark and inspire organic forms and textures
Handbuilding: Thick rectangular coils create strength and character
Atmospheric Firing: the kiln firing adds natural variation and flow
Shino Glazing: Rice-based glazes crawl and pool organically.
Featured Studio Creations.
A small showcase of handmade charm — where texture, glaze, and whimsy meet. Each piece carries its own spirit: rustic ridges, autumn leaves, sculpted branches, and rainbow-painted joy.
More about these Creations
The Aetheric Bowl – Irregular wings, rich texture (Blue Shino glaze with brown accents)
Maple Leaf Bowl 2 – Features the interplay of texture, and the elegant variety of form, by creatively using techniques such as appliqué and careful glazing.
Nocturna Flora Vase – A poetic nod to dusk and the delicate weaving of nature.
Whimsical Sole – A shoe. Inspired by the nostalgic image of children’s drawings on sidewalks.
Shop the Collections of the Essex Junction Studio
Every piece carries Vermont’s wild spirit. Browse Handbuilt Pottery
Mark Carter crafts unique ceramics in Essex Junction, Vermont. Free US shipping on nature-inspired pottery.
MFCarter Pottery Logo
My logo was inspired by Leo, my adorable cat who likes to push things off of shelves, including pots.