My Story
From a spark of curiosity to handcrafted
pottery pieces full of quirky character
Hello, I’m Michelle — the maker behind Rock Lobster Pots, creating characterful ceramics with a playful twist.
My pottery journey began with weekly classes at Bishop Auckland College and the Teesdale Pottery Group. What started as simple curiosity quickly turned into a full-blown passion. I fell hard for clay — its versatility, its unpredictability, and the way it quietly insists you slow down and pay attention.
Before long, once-a-week classes just weren’t enough. I started making at home, bought my own kiln (they’re very heavy — family members were bribed and recruited to help wrestle it into my shed), and slowly realised that pottery is not a hobby that respects spare bedrooms. The carpet had to go and a home studio was born.
As my shelves filled up, my friends and family found themselves suspiciously well supplied with “thoughtful clay gifts.” Eventually, I took the hint and decided it might be time to try selling my work instead.
Today, my ceramics focus on quirky animal sculptures and characterful pots. I create a range called Pots of Character — small, one-of-a-kind vases with big personalities. Each piece is individually named and comes with its own personality tag, celebrating charm, individuality, and the fact that no two of us (or pots) are ever quite the same.
I’m endlessly fascinated by how tiny changes in form, colour, texture, and surface decoration can completely transform a piece. My work is rooted in storytelling, humour, and the belief that everyday objects can be expressive, joyful, and a little bit mischievous.
I hope you find one that makes you smile — and love it as much as I loved making it. Have a look and find one that speaks to you!
I live in Barnard Castle with my partner, our two sons, and a mischievous cat named Bonnie.
