Creative takes the leap to launch pottery painting venture at ‘perfect’ Northampton location
A creative has taken the leap to launch her own pottery painting venture at what she describes as the “perfect” Northampton location.
Kate Lowe launched ‘Pottery Painting at Workbridge’ in Bedford Road in July and has met lots of happy customers at the “charming” studio.
Kate loves painting ceramics, which she sells online and at markets, and she even featured in the local makers’ marquee at this year’s Northampton Balloon Festival.
Customers get two hours of peaceful, creative and fun studio time at Workbridge and they can collect their painted goods a week later after they have been glazed and fired by Kate.
She has her own kiln and studio in her thatched cottage in Duston, and runs pottery painting workshops at Duston Village Bakery and the local community centre.
Kate chose the light and airy studio at Workbridge as it has free parking, is fully accessible and has an on-site cafe for visitors to enjoy.
It was only recently when the founder moved to the town from Buckinghamshire and she was not able to continue with her former job in a pottery shop – which formed part of her two years of experience in this niche.
Kate describes herself as a creative and maker of many things, and her love for pottery painting began during the pandemic. Her neighbour ran a pottery studio and she requested a box of mugs and paint to have a go during the uncertain time.
“It was the best thing,” Kate told the Chronicle & Echo. “As soon as the paint touched the ceramics, I fell in love. I’ve been painting ceramics and selling them on my website ever since, and Etsy has also been great.”
Anyone is welcome to attend Pottery Painting at Workbridge and Kate says it is suitable for people of all ages and artistic abilities, with a great selection of ceramics to paint.
Visitors are currently being advised to book the two-hour slots online, as Kate is only open when she knows bookings have been made.
“It is two hours of being mindful and engrossed in something that isn’t a screen,” she said. “It’s a really nice thing to do, and to see groups chatting away.”
When asked what the response has been like from the Northampton community over the first month, Kate said: “It’s been lovely and it’s filled my heart with joy. People get so much out of it.”
Kate aspires to open from Friday to Sunday each week when the demand is there, but will continue to open as and when customers book for the time being.