I usually make on my own at home, but a while ago I joined a community arts college for a couple of terms. At the time, I wasn’t in a good place, so leaving the house and trying to connect with people wasn’t easy for me… but I’m glad I did it.

The weekly sessions were 2h long, and I wanted to make things I wasn’t emotionally invested or attached to. Just making as a form of play, without overthinking.

I set myself a few rules:

• Make one piece each session within 1h45m (no glazing time included)
• Only use their clay, which was quite different from mine in texture and colour
• Only use their tools (harder than it sounds!)
• Only use their glazes… I did fail in this.

I mostly made the pieces out of coils, I quickly realised I had a preference for that handbuilding technique. I loved the process, and it helped me improve my skills. I hadn’t planned on making characters, but then I saw a picture of a thrown caterpillar pot and knew I had to make one using coils and giving it its own personality.

That’s how my first Caterpillar Pot was born. My work is normally non-functional, but people seemed to feel drawn to that piece and encouraged me to make more. So I revisited the idea, refined the design, and had a great time creating this new generation.

These handmade ceramic Caterpillar Pots are also brush holders and are ideal for artists, makers and anyone who simply enjoys surrounding themselves with joyful pieces. They are a cheerful addition to any studio, craft room or desk.

Their little legs that can hold brushes, pencils and other artistic essential tools. Every caterpillar has its own little companion in the form of a bee or ladybird, adding even more charm to their character.