At Cottage Crafted, we are dedicated to preserving the art of sustainable pottery, a craft that has been cherished for thousands of years. Our community of traditional artisans supports agrarians in a sustainable village context, creating functional farmstead handcrafts that include woodworking, pottery, blacksmithing, textile crafts, and more.
Why Choose Pottery? Pottery has been an integral part of human civilization, serving various purposes such as storing and serving food, holding water, and preserving documents. The wide and purposeful use of pottery has historically supported local agrarian communities, aligning with Cottage Crafted's mission to encourage sustainable living. One specific use for pottery is fermentation crockery, which not only aids in preserving food but also enhances its nutritional value.
The Art of Clay Clay, the foundation of pottery, has been used for millennia. While industrialization has made clay more accessible, the tradition of digging and processing one's own clay has been a practice passed down through generations. Understanding the different types of clay, its properties, and sourcing it locally adds value to the craft.
Types of Clay There are two basic types of clay: earthenware and stoneware. Earthenware, fired at lower temperatures, is not waterproof, while stoneware, fired at higher temperatures, offers durability and lasting strength. Understanding the properties of different clays and their suitability for various pottery forms is essential for creating high-quality, functional pieces.
Finding Your Own Clay While some potters caution against digging native clay due to the effort involved, others advocate for the practical experience and fulfillment it brings. Understanding the geological composition of the clay source and its impact on the final product is crucial for creating pottery that stands the test of time.
Crafting Pottery Hand-building and wheel-throwing are two primary methods of making pottery. Hand-building allows for intricate, handcrafted designs, while wheel-throwing offers a more controlled and precise approach. Both methods require skill and patience, and mastering them opens up a world of creative possibilities.
Preserving Tradition At Cottage Crafted, we are committed to preserving the tradition of pottery making. Our artisans are dedicated to passing down their knowledge and skills, ensuring that this timeless craft continues to thrive for generations to come.
Join Us We invite you to join us at the MOTHER EARTH NEWS FAIR in Puyallup, Wash., where we will be showcasing sustainable pottery and offering live demonstrations. Visit our booth to witness the art of pottery-making and explore our collection of quality handcrafted pottery.
Get in Touch For more information about our sustainable pottery and artisanal handcrafts, visit our website at or contact us at steve@cottagecrafted.com or 406-334-3045.
At Cottage Crafted, we are dedicated to preserving the art of sustainable pottery, a craft that has been cherished for thousands of years. Our community of traditional artisans supports agrarians in a sustainable village context, creating functional farmstead handcrafts that include woodworking, pottery, blacksmithing, textile crafts, and more.
