Business Details
38 Years
experience
Handmade Stoneware Pottery in Waitsfield, Vermont
Waitsfield Pottery was founded in 1988 by Ulrike Tessmer, a master potter with over four decades of experience in the craft. Our studio, located in Historic Waitsfield Village, Vermont, specializes in creating high-quality, functional stoneware using traditional hand-thrown techniques. Each piece is meticulously crafted at the potter's wheel, finished with richly textured engobes and glazes, and fired to 2200F for exceptional durability. We combine European apprenticeship training with American craftsmanship to produce timeless tableware and decorative items. Our work has been recognized nationally, including being named Best Pottery in Yankee Magazine's 2011 Editors' Choice issue.We maintain strict quality control through careful production processes and double-boxed shipping. With over 35 years in our current location, we serve customers through our studio showroom, craft shops, and regional craft shows across New England. Our commitment to excellence extends to personalized customer service, offering direct communication via phone or email for product inquiries. We maintain transparency in our pricing structure, including detailed shipping calculations that reflect actual costs. Our longevity and reputation reflect our dedication to preserving traditional pottery methods while meeting modern functional needs.
Services
Stoneware Bowls
Handcrafted Mugs
Decorative Vases
Kitchenware Sets
Bath Accessories
Details
- Year established: 1988
Highlights and features
- We offer over 40 years of pottery expertise from a master craftsman
- Our stoneware is fired to 2200F for exceptional durability
- Recognized as Best Pottery by Yankee Magazine in 2011
- Maintain strict quality control through double-boxed shipping
- Combine European apprenticeship training with American craftsmanship
Services
Stoneware Bowls
Hand-thrown stoneware bowls combine functionality with artistic design. Each piece undergoes meticulous shaping at the wheel followed by textured glazing. Fired at extreme temperatures for lasting durability, these bowls serve both practical dining needs and decorative purposes. Customers appreciate their timeless aesthetic that complements modern and traditional table settings.
Handcrafted Mugs
Functional mugs showcase traditional pottery techniques with individualized surface treatments. Crafted to withstand daily use while maintaining visual appeal, these pieces feature ergonomic handles and balanced proportions. The high-temperature firing process ensures resistance to chipping and cracking while preserving vibrant glaze colors through years of use.
Decorative Vases
Artistic vases blend form and function through sculptural designs and textured surfaces. Each creation emphasizes unique dimensional qualities while maintaining structural integrity. The specialized glazing techniques create visual depth that enhances both empty display and floral arrangements, making them popular choices for home decor.
Kitchenware Sets
Coordinated kitchen collections include plates, bowls, and serving pieces designed for everyday use. The stoneware construction balances weight and thickness for practical handling while maintaining refined appearance. Customers value the cohesive aesthetic across pieces, with consistent glazing patterns that unify complete dining settings.
Bath Accessories
Specialized bath items combine water resistance with decorative appeal. The non-porous ceramic surfaces maintain durability in humid environments while decorative elements add visual interest. Functional designs include soap dishes, toothbrush holders, and dispensers that coordinate with both modern and traditional bathroom decors.
People
Ulrike Tessmer
Owner & Potter
Master potter with over 40 years of experience, trained through German apprenticeship system. Established Waitsfield Pottery in 1988 after working with renowned potters in Europe and the US. Recognized nationally for craftsmanship excellence in 2011 by Yankee Magazine.
Questions
What materials do you use in your pottery?
We use high-quality stoneware clay fired to 2200°F with durable engobes and glazes.
How is your pottery packaged for shipping?
All items receive double-boxing with a 5% packing fee to ensure safe delivery.
Do you offer custom pottery pieces?
We create standard designs but welcome special requests for unique commissions.
Where can I see your work in person?
Visit our studio showroom in Historic Waitsfield Village, Vermont.
What shipping carriers do you use?
We ship via UPS or USPS depending on which provides the best rate.
How should I care for your stoneware?
Our pottery is dishwasher safe but hand washing recommended for longest durability.
Reviews (1)
Joan Frame
Feb 15, 2021
Report
Excellent oil fire starter crockery. Our second as the first fell victim to a poker falling on it. This is not only beautiful, but the packing was superb and the item arrived very promptly. Thank you so much! Joan