Meet the Maker
I’m Katie, a potter making small-batch functional stoneware ceramics in my Berkshire garden studio. Every piece is handcrafted to bring warmth and colour to your daily life.
Behind the scenes in my Berkshire studio
Katie L Thompson Designs began in 2015 with a range of handmade cards and textiles, but my love for pottery came a little later—and quite unexpectedly. In 2017, my mum gifted me a pottery class for my 21st birthday. At first, I wasn’t sure—getting covered in clay and making small talk didn’t exactly appeal—but I quickly found myself hooked. Before long, I’d bought my own wheel and set up a home studio where I could spend every spare moment practising.
I’ve always been drawn to creative pursuits. Growing up, I tried my hand at drawing, sewing, lace making, basket weaving, enamelling, and countless other crafts—each one shaping my artistic journey and deepening my appreciation for handmade work.
Pottery became my escape from the routine of my day job in accounting. It gave me space to slow down, recharge, and reconnect with a more hands-on, creative way of working. Crafting ceramics is now my way of finding balance. When I’m at the wheel, I focus on creating pieces that are both functional and beautiful. My small garden studio, nestled in the Berkshire countryside, is where I immerse myself in the creative process. I want each of my pieces to bring a sense of calm and warmth to everyday moments.
Inside a glaze kiln just before unloading
My garden pottery studio in Berkshire
Where the throwing magic happens
The kiln – the final (and most unpredictable) step
My Ceramic Process
I work primarily with stoneware, handcrafting each piece on the wheel, then glazing and firing to create durable, tactile ceramics.
Wheel Throwing
Each piece begins on the pottery wheel, shaped by hand with careful attention to form and proportion.
Glazing
I carefully select and apply glazes that enhance each piece's unique character and tactile qualities.
High-Fire
Firing at high temperatures creates the durable, functional stoneware that's perfect for daily use.
Finishing
Each piece is carefully inspected and finished, ready to bring mindful moments to your home.
What Drives My Work
When I'm at the wheel, I focus on creating pieces that are functional and beautiful, bringing calm and warmth to everyday moments.
Mindful Making
Each piece is created with intention, embracing the therapeutic rhythm of wheel throwing and the surprises that clay brings.
Functional Beauty
I believe beautiful ceramics should be used daily, not just admired—bringing joy to your morning coffee or evening meal.
Handmade Quality
Every piece shows the mark of human hands, celebrating the imperfections that make handmade ceramics special.
Small Batch Care
Working in small batches allows me to give each piece individual attention and maintain the highest quality standards.
A Little About Me
When I’m not in the studio, I’m usually out walking with my rescue terrier, sketching out new forms to try, or sipping a glass of chocolate milk. I’ve always believed the things we use every day should bring comfort and colour — ceramics that feel as good in the hand as they look on the shelf.
My pieces are made to be used: favourite mugs that start the day, bowls that hold quick lunches and giant plates for Sunday roasts. I make everything slowly, in small batches, with the intention that each piece finds a place in real life — not just on a display.
Thank you for being here. I hope my ceramics bring a bit of warmth and joy into your home.
Hi, I’m Katie – thanks for being here
Ready to Explore My Ceramics?
Browse my current collection or join my pottery journey to get behind-the-scenes access and early previews of new pieces.