top of page
Discover My Handmade Pottery Blog, Ceramic Techniques, and Creative Process
Welcome to my handmade pottery blog, where I share the story behind each ceramic piece I create in my Charlotte studio. This is where my process comes to life, from shaping high quality stoneware clay by hand to exploring glaze combinations and high fire finishes.
You will find pottery blogs covering ceramic techniques, glazing methods, pottery care, styling ideas, and what makes handmade pottery unique. I also share behind the scenes insights into my handbuilt approach and the inspiration that guides each form.
Last Year I Came to Look. This Year I Came to Show.
I had heard for a long time that Potters Market at the Mint was an event I had to see, so last year I went with my mom and wandered through the museum, oohing and ahhing over all the pottery. There were so many incredible artists and pieces under one roof, and I couldn't stop thinking about it after we left. Somewhere in the middle of seeing all that amazing work, I remember thinking, I want to be part of this someday. At that point, it was just a goal. I went back to my stud
Allison Neiss
Sep 284 min read
My Experience at the 1st Annual Mooresville Fine Arts Festival
Last weekend, I had the chance to participate in the first annual Mooresville Fine Arts Festival, and it ended up being one of the most thoughtfully organized events I’ve attended as a ceramic artist. As someone who primarily works in South Charlotte, I’m always grateful for opportunities to meet new communities, and this festival brought together a warm, engaged crowd who genuinely appreciated handmade work. A Juried Event That Felt Meaningful One of the things that immediat
Allison Neiss
Nov 30, 20254 min read
Artisan Day at Traditions in Charlotte: A Heartfelt Experience
On Thursday, October 30, 2025, I had the joy of taking part in Artisan Day at Traditions in Charlotte . It was one of those special days that reminded me why I love being part of a creative community. From the moment I arrived, I could feel a sense of warmth and hospitality. Traditions of Charlotte, NC is a stunning interior design store in the Park Road Shopping Center. Founded by Sharon Garfield more than thirty years ago, it has become a beloved part of the Charlotte desi
Allison Neiss
Oct 31, 20252 min read
From Charlotte to Hong Kong: A Handmade Blue-Green Ceramic Centerpiece Bowl’s Journey
An Unexpected Call I was halfway through dinner last night when my phone rang. A man from a local manufacturing company had found my website on Google Maps and was on a bit of a mission. His company has worked with a vendor in Hong Kong for thirty-eight years, and he wanted to find a nice thank-you gift that actually meant something. He told me he had his eye on the ruffled ceramic centerpiece bowl in blue green tones from my site and wanted to know if it was available. The
Allison Neiss
Oct 21, 20252 min read
Buying Handmade Pottery Online: How I Ensure Safe Shipping of Fragile Ceramics
As a ceramic artist deeply passionate about crafting handmade pottery, there’s nothing more rewarding than sending my work to homes...
Allison Neiss
Aug 10, 20255 min read
Handmade Ceramics: Anthropologie Features Allison Neiss Pottery for Pop-Up Event
I’m thrilled to share that I was recently invited to participate in Anthropologie’s Mother’s Day Pop-Up Market! This special event took place on May 2nd and was an incredible opportunity to showcase my handmade ceramics in such a beautiful and inspiring space. A few weeks ago, a representative from Anthropologie reached out to invite me to join their Mother’s Day pop-up event. I was both shocked and honored to receive such an invitation. Anthropologie operates over 200 stores
Allison Neiss
May 3, 20253 min read
How Handmade Ceramic Art Made an Impact at the Charlotte Heart Ball
How I Got Involved with the Heart Ball Last year, I had the opportunity to donate one of my handmade ceramic pieces to the Greater Charlotte Heart Ball an annual fundraiser benefiting the American Heart Association. This sculptural vase was one of the many great items donated to be part of the event's auction, which ended up raising $700 for their cause. The American Heart Association works to advance research on heart disease and stroke, promote healthier lifestyles, and
Allison Neiss
May 3, 20252 min read
How to Pack Fragile Items for Shipping: Protecting Pottery and Delicate Goods
I’m always excited when I get an order to ship my pottery, but the last thing I want is for my customers to receive their order in a...
Allison Neiss
Jan 25, 20253 min read
How to Plan and Execute a Sip and Shop Event
A Wonderful Afternoon: Recapping Our Sip and Shop Event. Steps I took to plan and execute a great sip and shop event.
Allison Neiss
Dec 1, 20244 min read
bottom of page