Handcrafted and Wood-Fired Pottery Made in North Carolina by Sam Dougherty Pottery
Each piece of our handmade pottery is functional art that enhances your daily rituals—from morning coffee to shared meals.
Wood-Fired Tradition
Flame and natural ash create one-of-a-kind pottery pieces.
Thoughtfully Crafted
Carefully handcrafted and infused with care and intention.
North Carolina Made
Supporting sustainable practices and keeping traditional craft alive.
Nestled in the rolling hills of Stokes County, North Carolina
Sam Dougherty draws inspiration for his pottery from both his family's artistic legacy and the natural world. His handmade pottery and wood-fired ceramics are not only functional but also artistic, reflecting the shapes and colors found in nature and creating pieces that stand the test of time.
Explore the journey from raw clay to the wood-fired kiln
Wood firing is a collaboration between potter, kiln, and clay. During the firing, which can last several days, wood ash settles on the pieces and melts into natural glazes, creating unique patterns and colors.
Our Pottery Blog
From Earth to Art: The Journey of Our Pottery
The texture and movement of handcrafted ceramic piece is deeply satisfying. Share the journey each piece takes from raw clay to a finished creation in my NC pottery studio.
From Barn to Studio: A Rural Space for Pottery
Transforming this barn into a working pottery studio has been about more than just renovation – it's about honoring rural crafting traditions while creating space for their continuation.
The Art of Creating Functional Pottery
Wood-firing adds another layer to this functionality. The ash deposits and flame patterns don't just create visual interest – they record the pot's journey through the kiln.
