Mudworks Studio is a small-batch ceramics studio where I create handmade stoneware pieces for everyday use—mugs, bowls, vases, and sculptural objects made to live quietly in your home. Each piece is designed and finished by hand, with an emphasis on calm forms, soft glazes, and long-lasting function.

Every piece is made by me, Carrie—ceramic artist, photographer, and designer. I work in small batches at the wheel and by hand, so each object carries subtle variations that reflect the human hand and the rhythm of the studio.

Mudworks Studio is based on the Western Slope of Colorado. I work from a quiet studio space that allows for slow, intentional making and ship pieces to customers and stockists.

I work primarily with high-fired stoneware clay and food-safe glazes in a restrained, earthy palette. The combination creates durable, tactile pieces that feel grounded in the hand and at home in a variety of spaces.

Yes. All functional pieces—mugs, bowls, plates, and serving pieces—are made with food-safe, lead-free glazes suitable for everyday use. Sculptural or decorative pieces will be noted as such in their product descriptions.

Most tableware and mugs are microwave and dishwasher safe unless noted otherwise in the product description. For the longest life, I still recommend a gentle hand wash and avoiding extreme temperature changes, especially for handmade pieces you reach for often.

Treat them as you would any favorite object: wash with mild soap, avoid sudden temperature shock (like moving directly from a hot oven to a cold surface), and store them so rims aren’t under pressure. Over time, small marks and wear only add to the character of the piece.

Yes. Variation is part of the charm of small-batch ceramics. Slight differences in shape, thickness, and glaze flow are natural and expected, and they make each piece one of a kind while still feeling cohesive in a collection.

Unless a product description specifically mentions oven use, I recommend keeping pieces out of the oven and freezer to avoid thermal shock. Most pieces are intended for serving, everyday meals, and display rather than high-heat baking.

Most vases and vessels are designed to hold water for fresh stems, but some sculptural pieces are better suited to dried flowers or branches. Each product description will note whether a piece is watertight or best for dry arrangements.

Yes—comfort in the hand is a big part of my design process. Handles, curves, and lip shapes are considered as carefully as the glaze so the pieces feel good in daily use, not just on a shelf.

I currently ship orders within the United States, and I’m exploring options for broader international shipping. If you’re outside this area and interested in a piece, you’re welcome to reach out via the contact form.

Ready-to-ship pieces typically leave the studio within [X–Y] business days. If an item is made-to-order, the product description will note the estimated timeline, which can range from [A–B] weeks to allow for throwing, drying, glazing, and firing.

Each piece is wrapped carefully in protective materials and boxed securely to withstand shipping. Whenever possible, I use recycled and recyclable packing materials to keep both your ceramics and the environment in mind.

Because each piece is made in small batches, returns are handled on a case-by-case basis. If there’s an issue with your order, please reach out so we can find a thoughtful solution together.

I occasionally accept custom work when my schedule allows—especially for tableware sets, special glazes, or pieces for specific spaces. Share your ideas through the contact form, and I’ll let you know what’s possible and what the timeline might look like.

Yes. I love partnering with shops, designers, and stylists who resonate with the work. If you’re interested in carrying Mudworks pieces or using them in a project, please include your business details and vision when you get in touch.

From time to time, I offer workshops or small group sessions focused on handbuilding, wheel basics, or living with handmade objects. If you’d like to host or attend a workshop, you can add your interest through the contact form so I can share updates.