Business Details
50 Years
experience
Handcrafted Stoneware & Raku Pottery in Bend, Oregon
Established in 1976 by Michael and Michele Gwinup, Blue Spruce Pottery has been crafting hand-thrown and hand-built stoneware and raku pottery for over four decades. Our family-owned business transitioned in 2003 when Michael and Michele's daughter Melissa and her husband Patrick Woodman joined the team, continuing a legacy of artistry and craftsmanship. We create every piece using clay and glazes formulated from raw materials, with Michael's proprietary clay blend and time-tested glaze recipes forming the foundation of our work. Our stoneware, fired to 2200F in gas kilns, combines durability with food-safe functionality, while our raku pieces showcase vibrant metallic finishes achieved through post-firing reduction processes. Inspired by Central Oregon's mountain landscapes, we infuse natural beauty into each handmade creation, ensuring every item reflects the potter's unique touch and spontaneous expression.We prioritize quality through lead-free materials, rigorous testing, and careful temperature management during production. Our commitment to preserving traditional pottery techniques while embracing innovation has earned us a reputation for excellence in functional and decorative ceramics. We serve customers who appreciate the artistry of handmade pottery, offering pieces that bring lasting enjoyment to homes and spaces. Our dedication to craftsmanship extends to educational opportunities through pottery classes, sharing our expertise with the community. Every item we produce carries the legacy of Michael Gwinup's artistic vision, ensuring his passion for pottery continues to shape our work.
Services
Stoneware Pottery
Raku Pottery
Pottery Classes
Custom Orders
Online Store
Details
- Year established: 1976
Highlights and features
- Family-owned since 1976 with three generations of pottery expertise
- Handcrafted using proprietary clay formulas developed over decades
- Durable stoneware tested for food safety and temperature resistance
- Unique raku pieces featuring metallic finishes from traditional firing techniques
- Mountain-inspired designs reflecting Central Oregon's natural landscapes
Services
Stoneware Pottery
Our stoneware pottery combines functionality with artistry through hand-thrown and slab-built techniques. Fired at 2200F in gas kilns, these food-safe pieces feature durable construction suitable for daily use. Each item undergoes rigorous testing for microwave, dishwasher, and oven safety while maintaining traditional craftsmanship standards.
Raku Pottery
Raku pottery showcases vibrant metallic finishes through specialized post-firing reduction processes. Each decorative piece undergoes dramatic temperature changes, creating unique patterns from controlled oxidation reactions. These non-food-safe items include wall art, vases, and lamps designed for aesthetic display rather than functional use.
Pottery Classes
We offer hands-on pottery classes for all skill levels, focusing on traditional wheel-throwing and hand-building techniques. Our Monster Making and Raku Firing classes provide immersive experiences in specific pottery methods, using professional-grade equipment and materials developed through decades of practice.
People
Michael Gwinup
Founder
Michael Gwinup established Blue Spruce Pottery in 1976, developing proprietary clay formulas and mentoring generations of potters until his passing in 2022. His artistic vision continues to shape the company's approach to traditional ceramics techniques.
Michele Gwinup
Co-Founder
As co-founder, Michele Gwinup helped build the business alongside Michael for decades. She contributed to developing production processes and maintaining quality standards across all pottery creations during the company's formative years.
Melissa Woodman
Owner
Melissa Woodman joined the family business in 2003, continuing her parents' legacy through hands-on pottery production and business management. She maintains traditional techniques while adapting to modern production needs after Michael's passing.
Patrick Woodman
Owner
Patrick Woodman became part of the business in 2003, contributing technical expertise and operational management. He works with Melissa to preserve the company's heritage while ensuring continued production of high-quality handmade pottery.
Questions
What types of pottery do you create?
We produce two main types: functional stoneware for daily use and decorative raku pottery. Stoneware is food-safe and durable, while raku pieces feature metallic finishes from specialized firing techniques.
Are your ceramics safe for food use?
Yes, our stoneware is lead-free and tested for food safety. It's microwave, dishwasher, and oven safe when following temperature guidelines. Raku pottery is decorative and not intended for food contact.
How should I care for your pottery?
Stoneware can be cleaned in dishwashers and used in ovens with gradual temperature changes. Raku pieces require gentle cleaning with soft cloths and water to preserve their delicate surfaces.
Do you offer pottery classes?
Yes, we provide hands-on classes including Monster Making and Raku Firing experiences. These workshops teach traditional techniques using professional equipment and materials developed over decades.
What inspires your designs?
Central Oregon's mountain landscapes serve as our primary inspiration. We incorporate natural beauty into each piece while maintaining the unique artistic expression of individual potters.
Reviews (3)
Michael Jury
Dec 11, 2020
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We couldn't be any happier with our new lamp. It's just beautiful, and the owners/craftspeople obviously take great pride in their work. Thank you!
Robin Morgan
Jun 27, 2018
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I have been collecting pieces made by Blue Spuce Pottery since they first opened their doors for business a long time ago. It was fabulous to inherit a bowl from my aunt last year, I didnt know she was also a fan. The pottery is first rate, beautiful and well made. Their customer service and business practices rate as high as their creative output. I give them a well deserved 5 star rating.
Peter Gilham-Luginbill
Jun 10, 2018
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Wonderful handmade pottery. Quality is prime and the owners are passionate, welcoming, and knowledgeable. Great stop for anyone interested in Art.
