Pottery and the Joy of Making

Michelle Allen and mom with Mugs

For years, I’ve been thinking about taking a pottery class, and I’m so excited to finally say that I’ve started! About a month ago, my kids, mom, and I took a handbuilding mug workshop together, and it was such an incredible experience. There’s something magical about shaping clay with your hands. It was grounding, liberating, and so much fun all at once. We spent the afternoon just creating, and it’s such a great feeling to make something from scratch.

Inspired by that experience, my son-in-law and I decided to keep the momentum going. We signed up for a 7-week pottery class, and it’s been an absolute blast. I love that pottery has this calming, meditative quality. Watching the clay take shape, working with it, and seeing it transform—it’s such a satisfying process. Every session reminds me that learning something new is always an opportunity to explore. It’s never too late to start something new and exciting.

Michelle Allen and family at pottery class


Pottery has become a great way to get beyond my ‘normal’ creativity and find joy in other creative exploits. And that joy doesn’t just stop with pottery. It reminds me of the other projects I’ve done over the years, like upcycling old clothes, making paper mâché ornaments, and baking sourdough. The act of creating, whether it’s pottery, painting, or anything else, keeps me inspired and connected to my craft.

Speaking of making, I’m really excited to share my collaboration with Our Name is Mud coming out later this year. Together, we’ve created a line of mugs and ramen bowls that have that same handmade, one-of-a-kind feel I love. These pieces are a little different from my clocks. It is a different style of whimsy that their team brought to the table, but they still capture that essence of wonder, exploration and laughter. There’s just something special about a well-made mug that makes you smile, don’t you think? I hope these mugs will bring a bit of bright personality to your daily routine.

Michelle Allen showing pottery


Creativity is meant to be explored, enjoyed, and shared. Learning something new is always a reminder that there’s so much more to explore—and it’s never too late to start. Here’s to embracing new creative adventures and letting curiosity lead the way!

- Michelle

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