Meet the maker of nature inspired pottery
From my hands to yours
About Amanda - Dawson Pottery
Welcome to Dawson Pottery, where each handcrafted piece is a celebration of nature. I'm Amanda, the maker, kiln loader, order packer, website builder, and photographer behind this venture. Residing in the enchanting Forest of Dean, UK, I find endless inspiration in my woodland surroundings 🌿.
My journey began over eight years ago with slab building, and I have recently taken on the challenge of throwing pots on the wheel. At Dawson Pottery, you’ll find a unique blend of both slab-built and wheel-thrown pieces, each showcasing my love for natures. I incorporate leaf embellishments, colours and patterns inspired by my walks in the woods.
I believe in the slow, considered way of making, crafting pieces that are tactile, honest, and distinctly organic. You can see the marks my hands have made on every creation, which include beautifully crafted vases, bowls, mugs, candle holders, and even paint palettes. My work aims to connect you to the earth while enhancing your home with a touch of nature.
Sustainability is a passion of mine, and I strive to minimize my environmental footprint. Every scrap of clay is recycled, reflecting my commitment to preserving our planet. I take joy in walking through nature, feeding the hedgehogs, and watching the birds in my garden, fostering a deep appreciation for all forms of life.
The journey into pottery started as a means to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Initially, I worked from an 8x6 foot shed on my patio, using an extension lead for electricity and a bucket for water. In my early days, I discovered that crafting little soap dishes was not only a great learning experience but also a way to reduce plastic waste in my home, aligning with my desire for a more sustainable lifestyle.
As my skills grew, I began selling my creations on Etsy, but soon outgrew my small space. This led us to move closer to nature in the Forest of Dean, where I now operate from a larger pottery studio equipped with electricity—though I still carry a bucket of water!
Thank you for joining me on this journey through Dawson Pottery. Explore my collection to find handmade pieces that not only beautify your home but also carry the essence of nature and the spirit of sustainability, made with love—from my hands to yours.
Why the name Dawson Pottery
My first website was called madebymanda4u.co.uk I originally thought I might also sell sewing so I didn't include pottery in the title, five years on and I thought It was time to change to a more specific name dawsonpottery.uk was to be my new home.
Why Dawson you ask, well that is my maiden name. My Dad was so proud that I had started a pottery and I wanted to do something in his name after he passed in 2021.
“Hand building for me is my hands and a rolling pin. I use various rolling pins Textured hand rollers, a wooden rolling pin from the kitchen and a larger table top slab roller, that makes larger sheets”
What is hand building
For eight years I had been hand building pottery from flat slabs of clay, its a bit like another hobby of my sewing. You cut out the pattern and assemble the pieces. Watch the video to find out

