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Not every piece makes it to our shop…

Some end up hidden around Tacoma instead.

If you’re out searching for monkeyshines this week… you might find more than glass.

#Monkeyshines #Tacoma #GuerrillaArt #CORTERRA #arthunt

Not every piece makes it to our shop…

Some end up hidden around Tacoma instead.

If you’re out searching for monkeyshines this week… you might find more than glass.

#Monkeyshines #Tacoma #GuerrillaArt #CORTERRA #arthunt

There’s a tradition in Tacoma this time of year called Monkeyshines. It’s a city-wide Lunar New Year treasure hunt where thousands of beautiful glass orbs and pieces of art are secretly hidden around town by local artists and volunteers for people to find and enjoy.

This year, we decided to join in on the fun in a different way. Instead of searching for glass floats, we took some of our candleholders that didn’t make the cut for the website and hid them around Tacoma for people to discover while they’re out hunting for Monkeyshines. These pieces may be a little warped, chipped, or cracked, but perfectly handmade! It was all about spreading joy, curiosity, and the thrill of finding something unexpected.

These pieces may not have made it to the shop, but they still carry intention and care and we are excited for new people to stumble across them in parks, public spaces, and hidden nooks around town.

Make sure to tag us if you find one!

#Monkeyshines #Tacoma #monkeyshine #GuerrillaArt #CORTERRA

There’s a tradition in Tacoma this time of year called Monkeyshines. It’s a city-wide Lunar New Year treasure hunt where thousands of beautiful glass orbs and pieces of art are secretly hidden around town by local artists and volunteers for people to find and enjoy.

This year, we decided to join in on the fun in a different way. Instead of searching for glass floats, we took some of our candleholders that didn’t make the cut for the website and hid them around Tacoma for people to discover while they’re out hunting for Monkeyshines. These pieces may be a little warped, chipped, or cracked, but perfectly handmade! It was all about spreading joy, curiosity, and the thrill of finding something unexpected.

These pieces may not have made it to the shop, but they still carry intention and care and we are excited for new people to stumble across them in parks, public spaces, and hidden nooks around town.

Make sure to tag us if you find one!

#Monkeyshines #Tacoma #monkeyshine #GuerrillaArt #CORTERRA

Are your Valentines Day flowers already looking a little droopy? CORTERRA candleholders last wayyyy longer and can be used for multiple occasions!

#ceramics #candleholders #pottery #handmadegifts #flowers

Are your Valentines Day flowers already looking a little droopy? CORTERRA candleholders last wayyyy longer and can be used for multiple occasions!

#ceramics #candleholders #pottery #handmadegifts #flowers

While the majority of pieces we throw on the pottery wheel are small, every once in a while we like to push our skills and throw larger. However, that typically ends with lots of mistakes, or as some may say, lessons learned.

While we managed to keep this vase centered, trimmed and carved, it did not withstand the drying process and ultimately had an S crack going through the base. If we had this same thing happen four months ago we likely would have fired the piece as is and used it to test glazes. However, at this point we found it best to reclaim and recycle the clay so it may live on in a new life.

#corterra #ceramics #handmade #failedart #potteryforall

While the majority of pieces we throw on the pottery wheel are small, every once in a while we like to push our skills and throw larger. However, that typically ends with lots of mistakes, or as some may say, lessons learned.

While we managed to keep this vase centered, trimmed and carved, it did not withstand the drying process and ultimately had an S crack going through the base. If we had this same thing happen four months ago we likely would have fired the piece as is and used it to test glazes. However, at this point we found it best to reclaim and recycle the clay so it may live on in a new life.

#corterra #ceramics #handmade #failedart #potteryforall

Bet you thought that was going to end differently…

One of the first things you learn when making ceramics is that something’s don’t go as planned. In this case, the vase was thrown too thick and dried unevenly which led to cracking. While there are some techniques for fixing broken pieces, when there are structural problems like uneven walls, we find it’s better to simply recycle the clay than fire and glaze a subpar piece.

Now we can recycle the clay and give it new life! ♻️

#ceramics #corterra #throwingclay #pottery #artfail

Bet you thought that was going to end differently…

One of the first things you learn when making ceramics is that something’s don’t go as planned. In this case, the vase was thrown too thick and dried unevenly which led to cracking. While there are some techniques for fixing broken pieces, when there are structural problems like uneven walls, we find it’s better to simply recycle the clay than fire and glaze a subpar piece.

Now we can recycle the clay and give it new life! ♻️

#ceramics #corterra #throwingclay #pottery #artfail

There’s something so satisfying about trimming ceramics on the wheel.

The steady hum of the wheel, the quiet focus, and the way the clay slips off the form to reveal its final shape is something almost indescribable. When focusing in on this step of the process, it is a reminder that progress often looks simple and repetitive before it ever becomes something finished.

#corterra #ceramics #cleanse #pottery #trimming

There’s something so satisfying about trimming ceramics on the wheel.

The steady hum of the wheel, the quiet focus, and the way the clay slips off the form to reveal its final shape is something almost indescribable. When focusing in on this step of the process, it is a reminder that progress often looks simple and repetitive before it ever becomes something finished.

#corterra #ceramics #cleanse #pottery #trimming

I’ll be honest, I almost always dread making pieces for the Serendipity Collection.

They fail more than anything else I make. Cracking during drying, losing structural integrity while carving, breaking down during glazing or firing. Out of the 136 candleholders we added to our shop, only seven came from Serendipity. The rest didn’t make it through the process.

It would be easier to stop making them. To stick to what’s more predictable. But I keep coming back to Serendipity because it pushes me. It asks me to let go of control, to accept loss as part of the work, and to trust that the pieces that do make it through will carry something the others can’t.

The frustration is real. But so is the growth. And the few that remain hold the weight of everything that didn’t.

#ceramics #pottery #handmade #thoughtfulgifts #corterra

I’ll be honest, I almost always dread making pieces for the Serendipity Collection.

They fail more than anything else I make. Cracking during drying, losing structural integrity while carving, breaking down during glazing or firing. Out of the 136 candleholders we added to our shop, only seven came from Serendipity. The rest didn’t make it through the process.

It would be easier to stop making them. To stick to what’s more predictable. But I keep coming back to Serendipity because it pushes me. It asks me to let go of control, to accept loss as part of the work, and to trust that the pieces that do make it through will carry something the others can’t.

The frustration is real. But so is the growth. And the few that remain hold the weight of everything that didn’t.

#ceramics #pottery #handmade #thoughtfulgifts #corterra

Sometimes ceramics can be an aggressive hobby… and that’s okay! Don’t let aggressive clay wedging deter you from checking in on your local potter!

#ceramics #pottery #reclaimclay #corterra #handmade

Sometimes ceramics can be an aggressive hobby… and that’s okay! Don’t let aggressive clay wedging deter you from checking in on your local potter!

#ceramics #pottery #reclaimclay #corterra #handmade

please, please, please go take a look 🫶🏼

Our online shop is officially live, and it’s filled with one of a kind handmade ceramic candleholders, each made by hand in our home studio. Every piece begins as raw clay, thrown on the wheel, carved individually, glazed, and fired multiple times to become both functional and sculptural.

The name CORTERRA is a blend or the Latin word heart (COR) and the Latin word earth (TERRA). To us, it centers around the idea of transformation, that through pressure, time, and care, something simple can become meaningful. All of our pieces are made to shine light, to be lived with, and to bring a sense of calm and intention into your space. No two are the same, and that individuality is what we love most about the process.

If you’re drawn to modern ceramics, functional art, or thoughtful home decor, we’d love for you to explore what we’ve been making.

Please, please, please… go check out our online shop. Link in bio. 🫶🏼🫶🏼🫶🏼

#corterra #ceramics #pottery #sabrina #handmade

please, please, please go take a look 🫶🏼

Our online shop is officially live, and it’s filled with one of a kind handmade ceramic candleholders, each made by hand in our home studio. Every piece begins as raw clay, thrown on the wheel, carved individually, glazed, and fired multiple times to become both functional and sculptural.

The name CORTERRA is a blend or the Latin word heart (COR) and the Latin word earth (TERRA). To us, it centers around the idea of transformation, that through pressure, time, and care, something simple can become meaningful. All of our pieces are made to shine light, to be lived with, and to bring a sense of calm and intention into your space. No two are the same, and that individuality is what we love most about the process.

If you’re drawn to modern ceramics, functional art, or thoughtful home decor, we’d love for you to explore what we’ve been making.

Please, please, please… go check out our online shop. Link in bio. 🫶🏼🫶🏼🫶🏼

#corterra #ceramics #pottery #sabrina #handmade

Since updating our inventory with this first round of candleholders, we’ve had some fun capturing shots of them. Thanks to @sage.interiorsdesign for hosting a mini photo session 🎥🎥🎥

#corterra #interiordesign #ceramics #candleholders #pottery

Since updating our inventory with this first round of candleholders, we’ve had some fun capturing shots of them. Thanks to @sage.interiorsdesign for hosting a mini photo session 🎥🎥🎥

#corterra #interiordesign #ceramics #candleholders #pottery

✨CORTERRA by Carl ✨

It wouldn’t be fair to NOT include Carl when we throw! You can tell he was very thoughtful with his work.

#ceramics #dogs #clay #pottery #corterra

✨CORTERRA by Carl ✨

It wouldn’t be fair to NOT include Carl when we throw! You can tell he was very thoughtful with his work.

#ceramics #dogs #clay #pottery #corterra

In the past, the throwing stage of making candleholders was always my favorite because I felt that was when you could see the biggest transformation. From a lump of clay to a small pot.

However, since getting back into ceramics, I have felt that the trimming and carving stage is where the piece truly starts to a take shape. It is at this point that we decide which collection it will fall into, and which pattern it will have.

We always like to challenge ourselves with more and more intricate designs that ultimately remove more and more clay. With this piece just over 30% of clay was removed and it will continue to get lighter as it dries.

#ceramics #pottery #corterra #carving #handmadebyme

In the past, the throwing stage of making candleholders was always my favorite because I felt that was when you could see the biggest transformation. From a lump of clay to a small pot.

However, since getting back into ceramics, I have felt that the trimming and carving stage is where the piece truly starts to a take shape. It is at this point that we decide which collection it will fall into, and which pattern it will have.

We always like to challenge ourselves with more and more intricate designs that ultimately remove more and more clay. With this piece just over 30% of clay was removed and it will continue to get lighter as it dries.

#ceramics #pottery #corterra #carving #handmadebyme

Sometimes it’s more satisfying to watch the video than it is to do the actual work! In large part I think it is due to the fact that viewers don’t need to clean up the mess afterwards, but either way it’s fun to share a slice of our process with you!

#ceramics #handmade #pottery #corterra #trimming

Sometimes it’s more satisfying to watch the video than it is to do the actual work! In large part I think it is due to the fact that viewers don’t need to clean up the mess afterwards, but either way it’s fun to share a slice of our process with you!

#ceramics #handmade #pottery #corterra #trimming

Not every piece makes it through all the stages of ceramics. And yes, it can be frustrating to watch something you’ve poured time, energy, and effort into fall apart. But over time, you learn that it’s okay.

Most pieces that don’t make it can be recycled back into clay and become something new. Others, if they’ve already been fired, find their way to close family and friends. Either way, the work isn’t wasted.

Understanding that not everything is meant to make it through the process changes your perspective. Failure becomes part of learning, and not a representation of your skill or ability. In some ways, each piece is a building block on the skills it took to reduce the failure rate from 60% to 30%.

#ceramics #corterra #handmade #fail #pottery

Not every piece makes it through all the stages of ceramics. And yes, it can be frustrating to watch something you’ve poured time, energy, and effort into fall apart. But over time, you learn that it’s okay.

Most pieces that don’t make it can be recycled back into clay and become something new. Others, if they’ve already been fired, find their way to close family and friends. Either way, the work isn’t wasted.

Understanding that not everything is meant to make it through the process changes your perspective. Failure becomes part of learning, and not a representation of your skill or ability. In some ways, each piece is a building block on the skills it took to reduce the failure rate from 60% to 30%.

#ceramics #corterra #handmade #fail #pottery

Follow along for trimming and carving one of our candleholders. While some days we wish it only took 45 seconds in real life to finish, this stage is all about patience, timing, and letting the form tell you when it’s ready. Every piece moves at its own pace, and that’s part of what makes the process worth returning to.

#satisfyingprocess #potteryreels #clayprocess #makersofinstagram #corterra

Follow along for trimming and carving one of our candleholders. While some days we wish it only took 45 seconds in real life to finish, this stage is all about patience, timing, and letting the form tell you when it’s ready. Every piece moves at its own pace, and that’s part of what makes the process worth returning to.

#satisfyingprocess #potteryreels #clayprocess #makersofinstagram #corterra

The RISE Collection is by far one of our most popular when it comes to candleholders. Centered around growth, all pieces in this collection are reminders that change is good and necessary.

#corterra #ceramics #trimmingpottery #handmadeart #artistssupportartists

The RISE Collection is by far one of our most popular when it comes to candleholders. Centered around growth, all pieces in this collection are reminders that change is good and necessary.

#corterra #ceramics #trimmingpottery #handmadeart #artistssupportartists

Our online shop is now live!🫶🏼

If you’ve been following along and falling in love with with our candleholders we are excited to announce we just stocked 136 new candleholders onto our online store!

To view our available pieces, simply click on the link in our bio and explore! With pieces from our Essence, Rise, EbbTide and Serendipity collections there’s plenty to look through, however there is only one of each! So make sure you claim your favorites quick!

Thank you to everyone who has helped support us in getting to this point! We’ve been so excited to share this with you!

#corterra #ceramics #handmadegifts #pottery #productdrop

Our online shop is now live!🫶🏼

If you’ve been following along and falling in love with with our candleholders we are excited to announce we just stocked 136 new candleholders onto our online store!

To view our available pieces, simply click on the link in our bio and explore! With pieces from our Essence, Rise, EbbTide and Serendipity collections there’s plenty to look through, however there is only one of each! So make sure you claim your favorites quick!

Thank you to everyone who has helped support us in getting to this point! We’ve been so excited to share this with you!

#corterra #ceramics #handmadegifts #pottery #productdrop

Want to win a FREE CORTERRA candleholder? Follow the steps below to be entered to win!

1. Like this reel and follow @corterra_clay
2. Comment your guess on the total number of holes carved into this candleholder. (HINT: the first row of holes is 13)
3. If your guess is correct you’ll be entered to win a free candleholder, tea light candle and match box! Shipping included!
4. If you want more entries, tag four friends in the comments to 4X your entries!

Our drawing will be held on January 25th @8AM PST to coincide with our shop launch! So make sure to hit the follow button to find out if you won!

#giveaways #ceramics #pottery #corterra #entertowin

Want to win a FREE CORTERRA candleholder? Follow the steps below to be entered to win!

1. Like this reel and follow @corterra_clay
2. Comment your guess on the total number of holes carved into this candleholder. (HINT: the first row of holes is 13)
3. If your guess is correct you’ll be entered to win a free candleholder, tea light candle and match box! Shipping included!
4. If you want more entries, tag four friends in the comments to 4X your entries!

Our drawing will be held on January 25th @8AM PST to coincide with our shop launch! So make sure to hit the follow button to find out if you won!

#giveaways #ceramics #pottery #corterra #entertowin

From 7.4 ounces down to 3.9 ounces is quite the large drop, however once fired the vessel regains its original strength and structural integrity.

During this process of carving, the trickiest part is to time the moisture level of the clay. Too wet and it will fold in on itself. Too dry and it will crack when trying to pierce it.

#ceramics #localart #corterra #pottery #handmade

From 7.4 ounces down to 3.9 ounces is quite the large drop, however once fired the vessel regains its original strength and structural integrity.

During this process of carving, the trickiest part is to time the moisture level of the clay. Too wet and it will fold in on itself. Too dry and it will crack when trying to pierce it.

#ceramics #localart #corterra #pottery #handmade

While stoneware is traditionally known to carry more weight in its final form than other clay body’s such as porcelain, our candleholders break that stereotype.

One of the biggest factors that causes this is how thin the walls are thrown. When the walls are thick and then carved out the glaze coats the entire surface area and increases the odds of a hole being filled during its final firing. However when the walls are thin there is less area for the glaze to bond with ultimately reducing the risk.

While the thin walls lead to better results during glazing it can make the carving process more challenging as the candleholders become more and more fragile with each hole punched out.

SHOP GOING LIVE 1/25/26

#ceramics #corterra #handmadeart #candleholder #artistreveal

While stoneware is traditionally known to carry more weight in its final form than other clay body’s such as porcelain, our candleholders break that stereotype.

One of the biggest factors that causes this is how thin the walls are thrown. When the walls are thick and then carved out the glaze coats the entire surface area and increases the odds of a hole being filled during its final firing. However when the walls are thin there is less area for the glaze to bond with ultimately reducing the risk.

While the thin walls lead to better results during glazing it can make the carving process more challenging as the candleholders become more and more fragile with each hole punched out.

SHOP GOING LIVE 1/25/26

#ceramics #corterra #handmadeart #candleholder #artistreveal

Nate and I spent a long time going back and forth on a name for our pottery. We wanted something that felt like us without being our names; something simple, personal, and literal.

So we sat with what pottery truly means to us. Bringing the studio into our home and spending so much time with the craft has been a labor of love. That’s where COR came from, heart.

Then we thought about the material itself and the transformation it goes through to become a finished piece. Clay begins as part of the earth, which led us to TERRA.

And just like that, we had a name that felt right. Personal, simple, and a literal expression of our art and what it means to us.

Corterra /kôrˈterə/ proper noun - From Latin cor (heart) and terra (earth). A pottery practice grounded in care, intention, and the transformation of clay into functional art.

#corterra #ceramics #potterybusiness #clay #artist

Nate and I spent a long time going back and forth on a name for our pottery. We wanted something that felt like us without being our names; something simple, personal, and literal.

So we sat with what pottery truly means to us. Bringing the studio into our home and spending so much time with the craft has been a labor of love. That’s where COR came from, heart.

Then we thought about the material itself and the transformation it goes through to become a finished piece. Clay begins as part of the earth, which led us to TERRA.

And just like that, we had a name that felt right. Personal, simple, and a literal expression of our art and what it means to us.

Corterra /kôrˈterə/ proper noun - From Latin cor (heart) and terra (earth). A pottery practice grounded in care, intention, and the transformation of clay into functional art.

#corterra #ceramics #potterybusiness #clay #artist

Glazing… the most exciting and terrifying part of the process. It truly can make or break our favorite pieces!
We currently work with nine different glazes, which gives us 81 possible color combinations.

When we started working with these glazes we took the time to create test tiles for every combination. Having those on hand helps remove some of the guesswork. Even so, that final decision is still equal parts thrilling and nerve wracking, all that to say glazing keeps us on our toes!

#corterra #ceramictesttiles #ceramics #madeinaskutt #glazes

Glazing… the most exciting and terrifying part of the process. It truly can make or break our favorite pieces!
We currently work with nine different glazes, which gives us 81 possible color combinations.

When we started working with these glazes we took the time to create test tiles for every combination. Having those on hand helps remove some of the guesswork. Even so, that final decision is still equal parts thrilling and nerve wracking, all that to say glazing keeps us on our toes!

#corterra #ceramictesttiles #ceramics #madeinaskutt #glazes

At just over two weeks away from our first product drop we are trying our best to sneak a couple more pieces into the kiln!

Make sure you subscribe to our newsletter list (link in the bio) to stay up to date on product launches and be notified when the store goes live! 🫶🏼

#corterra #productdrop #ceramics #pottery #candleholders

At just over two weeks away from our first product drop we are trying our best to sneak a couple more pieces into the kiln!

Make sure you subscribe to our newsletter list (link in the bio) to stay up to date on product launches and be notified when the store goes live! 🫶🏼

#corterra #productdrop #ceramics #pottery #candleholders

My journey with ceramics hasn’t always been smooth sailing, especially because Nate has years ahead of me skill-wise. As they say, comparison is the thief of joy. Once I let go of that initial envy and truly embraced the learning curve, I realized just how deeply ceramics speaks to me.

I’ve always been an artist in one form or another, but never in something tangible. My background has lived in performance, classical voice, straight plays, and musicals, art that existed in the moment. Ceramics changed that. It’s art I can hold, take home, use, and live with.

The way I view my work has shifted, too. Ceramics is a practice full of steps, and sometimes it really is about trusting the process. I may not love the initial shape, but after carving, bisque firing, and glazing, more often than not it all comes together. There’s something so beautiful about taking raw earth and turning it into something usable.

It feels like a metaphor for growth, how change takes time, patience, and a little pressure.

✨ Store restock on 1/25 ✨

#corterra #localart #pottery #ceramics #handmade

My journey with ceramics hasn’t always been smooth sailing, especially because Nate has years ahead of me skill-wise. As they say, comparison is the thief of joy. Once I let go of that initial envy and truly embraced the learning curve, I realized just how deeply ceramics speaks to me.

I’ve always been an artist in one form or another, but never in something tangible. My background has lived in performance, classical voice, straight plays, and musicals, art that existed in the moment. Ceramics changed that. It’s art I can hold, take home, use, and live with.

The way I view my work has shifted, too. Ceramics is a practice full of steps, and sometimes it really is about trusting the process. I may not love the initial shape, but after carving, bisque firing, and glazing, more often than not it all comes together. There’s something so beautiful about taking raw earth and turning it into something usable.

It feels like a metaphor for growth, how change takes time, patience, and a little pressure.

✨ Store restock on 1/25 ✨

#corterra #localart #pottery #ceramics #handmade

Did you know Nate and I lived on a boat for over 2 years? I know… we’re crazy, right?

But that season taught us so much about communication. Docking a boat isn’t exactly low-stress, you have to communicate clearly, quickly, and trust each other’s judgement. That experience built a foundation of communication in our relationship that we will always rely on!

Now we work together all day, come home, and create together, and honestly? We love it. Having a shared creative outlet has only strengthened our partnership, and spending nearly every waking moment together feels natural (and fun).

Learning, growing, and creating side by side has been one of the greatest joys of our lives. We can’t wait to share these pieces with you 🫶🏼

✨ Corterra’s website goes live 1/25 ✨

#corterra #ceramics #handmade #couplesart #pottery

Did you know Nate and I lived on a boat for over 2 years? I know… we’re crazy, right?

But that season taught us so much about communication. Docking a boat isn’t exactly low-stress, you have to communicate clearly, quickly, and trust each other’s judgement. That experience built a foundation of communication in our relationship that we will always rely on!

Now we work together all day, come home, and create together, and honestly? We love it. Having a shared creative outlet has only strengthened our partnership, and spending nearly every waking moment together feels natural (and fun).

Learning, growing, and creating side by side has been one of the greatest joys of our lives. We can’t wait to share these pieces with you 🫶🏼

✨ Corterra’s website goes live 1/25 ✨

#corterra #ceramics #handmade #couplesart #pottery

Ceramics became fully integrated into my life once I received sign off to build a mini home studio in my parent garage. In high school, they let me turn a small corner into a workspace, giving me the freedom to experiment, make mistakes, and learn. That space gave me confidence I didn’t realize I was building at the time.

Years later, having a studio in my own garage feels like coming full circle. I’m incredibly grateful for the role my family has played and it reminds me that sometimes all it takes is a little space and someone willing to say yes.

#corterra #localart #ceramics #handmade #homestudio

Ceramics became fully integrated into my life once I received sign off to build a mini home studio in my parent garage. In high school, they let me turn a small corner into a workspace, giving me the freedom to experiment, make mistakes, and learn. That space gave me confidence I didn’t realize I was building at the time.

Years later, having a studio in my own garage feels like coming full circle. I’m incredibly grateful for the role my family has played and it reminds me that sometimes all it takes is a little space and someone willing to say yes.

#corterra #localart #ceramics #handmade #homestudio

Same tool, six years apart.

There’s a parable often shared in ceramics about a class divided into two groups. One group was graded on quantity, tasked with making as many pots as possible. The other was graded on quality, focused on making one perfect piece. In the end, the best work came from the group that made more. Not because they tried harder, but because they learned through repetition, failure, and time spent actually doing the work.

I think these two tools side by side embody that. The one on the right has been with me since high school. Years of carving, thousands of holes, and countless pieces later, the metal has slowly worn down. Not from chasing perfection, but from showing up again and again.

The tool on the left is new. Sharper. Cleaner. It will eventually look just like the other one. And honestly, that’s kind of the point.

While I almost exclusively use the newer hole punch, I keep the original on my shelf as a reminder that progress doesn’t come from waiting until everything is right. It comes from making, learning, repetition and being comfortable with the failures along the way.

#corterra #ceramics #pottery #before_and_after #localart

Same tool, six years apart.

There’s a parable often shared in ceramics about a class divided into two groups. One group was graded on quantity, tasked with making as many pots as possible. The other was graded on quality, focused on making one perfect piece. In the end, the best work came from the group that made more. Not because they tried harder, but because they learned through repetition, failure, and time spent actually doing the work.

I think these two tools side by side embody that. The one on the right has been with me since high school. Years of carving, thousands of holes, and countless pieces later, the metal has slowly worn down. Not from chasing perfection, but from showing up again and again.

The tool on the left is new. Sharper. Cleaner. It will eventually look just like the other one. And honestly, that’s kind of the point.

While I almost exclusively use the newer hole punch, I keep the original on my shelf as a reminder that progress doesn’t come from waiting until everything is right. It comes from making, learning, repetition and being comfortable with the failures along the way.

#corterra #ceramics #pottery #before_and_after #localart

The first farmers market I ever did started at 8AM at the Downtown Waterfront Farmers Market in Gig Harbor, right on the water at Skansie Brothers Park. My dad helped me set everything up that morning. We used his truck to haul the tables and tent, and at the time, it all felt like a pretty big leap.

I remember feeling excited, but also nervous. Paying for booth space, a tent, and supplies with no guaranteed return felt risky back then. I was hoping people would love the work, but there was definitely a fear that no one would stop to chat and I’d pack everything back up at the end of the day.

After about five hours into the market, I remember texting my family group chat saying I only had four pieces left. I don’t remember the very last piece that sold selling, but I do remember the feeling.

What surprised me most was what people were drawn to. I didn’t expect the candleholders to be the focus, but a photo I had on the table showing them lit in the dark caught people’s attention. It taught me that sometimes you have to look at something from a different perspective to really understand it.

Looking back, I don’t see that day as a defining moment, but as a stepping stone. Every piece teaches you something, and growth comes from stacking those lessons over time. First steps are often scary because the unknown is uncomfortable, but as long as you leave learning something, you haven’t failed.

#corterra #ceramics #pottery #handmade #artistmarket

The first farmers market I ever did started at 8AM at the Downtown Waterfront Farmers Market in Gig Harbor, right on the water at Skansie Brothers Park. My dad helped me set everything up that morning. We used his truck to haul the tables and tent, and at the time, it all felt like a pretty big leap.

I remember feeling excited, but also nervous. Paying for booth space, a tent, and supplies with no guaranteed return felt risky back then. I was hoping people would love the work, but there was definitely a fear that no one would stop to chat and I’d pack everything back up at the end of the day.

After about five hours into the market, I remember texting my family group chat saying I only had four pieces left. I don’t remember the very last piece that sold selling, but I do remember the feeling.

What surprised me most was what people were drawn to. I didn’t expect the candleholders to be the focus, but a photo I had on the table showing them lit in the dark caught people’s attention. It taught me that sometimes you have to look at something from a different perspective to really understand it.

Looking back, I don’t see that day as a defining moment, but as a stepping stone. Every piece teaches you something, and growth comes from stacking those lessons over time. First steps are often scary because the unknown is uncomfortable, but as long as you leave learning something, you haven’t failed.

#corterra #ceramics #pottery #handmade #artistmarket

It’s kind of wild to think that a single elective class in high school has shaped so much of my day-to-day life almost ten years later.

I signed up for ceramics out of genuine curiosity. I liked the idea of being able to make something I could actually use, and the wheel just looked fun. I had always loved arts and crafts growing up, so taking an art class felt natural at the time, but I had no idea how much it would stick.

The moment I really got hooked was kiln unloading day. I’d spend the entire week waiting for pieces to dry and fire, wondering if they’d turn out or not. That curiosity took up way more headspace than it probably should have, and honestly, that hasn’t changed. Even now, when I’m firing pieces at home, I’ll spend the whole workday thinking about them and rushing home to see how they came out.

I always knew I’d come back to ceramics at some point. I just didn’t know when. Building IGM took priority over almost everything aspect of my life for a long time, but when I finally returned to clay, so much of it felt familiar. Holding the hole punch tools brought me right back to late high school, and after about forty-five vessels, the muscle memory of throwing started to come back too.

Today, ceramics has become a creative outlet where I have full control. While my work with IGM allows me to be creative, it comes with structure and constraints. Being in the studio, working with clay, is different. It’s slower, more intuitive, and honestly a very healing place to be.

I guess the reminder here is to try new things. Even the small ones. You never really know which moments will end up impacting your life years down the road.

#ceramics #artiststory #corterra #pottery #art

It’s kind of wild to think that a single elective class in high school has shaped so much of my day-to-day life almost ten years later.

I signed up for ceramics out of genuine curiosity. I liked the idea of being able to make something I could actually use, and the wheel just looked fun. I had always loved arts and crafts growing up, so taking an art class felt natural at the time, but I had no idea how much it would stick.

The moment I really got hooked was kiln unloading day. I’d spend the entire week waiting for pieces to dry and fire, wondering if they’d turn out or not. That curiosity took up way more headspace than it probably should have, and honestly, that hasn’t changed. Even now, when I’m firing pieces at home, I’ll spend the whole workday thinking about them and rushing home to see how they came out.

I always knew I’d come back to ceramics at some point. I just didn’t know when. Building IGM took priority over almost everything aspect of my life for a long time, but when I finally returned to clay, so much of it felt familiar. Holding the hole punch tools brought me right back to late high school, and after about forty-five vessels, the muscle memory of throwing started to come back too.

Today, ceramics has become a creative outlet where I have full control. While my work with IGM allows me to be creative, it comes with structure and constraints. Being in the studio, working with clay, is different. It’s slower, more intuitive, and honestly a very healing place to be.

I guess the reminder here is to try new things. Even the small ones. You never really know which moments will end up impacting your life years down the road.

#ceramics #artiststory #corterra #pottery #art

It’s kind of wild to think that a single elective class in high school has shaped so much of my day-to-day life almost ten years later.

I signed up for ceramics out of genuine curiosity. I liked the idea of being able to make something I could actually use, and the wheel just looked fun. I had always loved arts and crafts growing up, so taking an art class felt natural at the time, but I had no idea how much it would stick.

The moment I really got hooked was kiln unloading day. I’d spend the entire week waiting for pieces to dry and fire, wondering if they’d turn out or not. That curiosity took up way more headspace than it probably should have, and honestly, that hasn’t changed. Even now, when I’m firing pieces at home, I’ll spend the whole workday thinking about them and rushing home to see how they came out.

I always knew I’d come back to ceramics at some point. I just didn’t know when. Building IGM took priority over almost everything aspect of my life for a long time, but when I finally returned to clay, so much of it felt familiar. Holding the hole punch tools brought me right back to late high school, and after about forty-five vessels, the muscle memory of throwing started to come back too.

Today, ceramics has become a creative outlet where I have full control. While my work with IGM allows me to be creative, it comes with structure and constraints. Being in the studio, working with clay, is different. It’s slower, more intuitive, and honestly a very healing place to be.

I guess the reminder here is to try new things. Even the small ones. You never really know which moments will end up impacting your life years down the road.

#ceramics #artiststory #corterra #pottery #art

It’s kind of wild to think that a single elective class in high school has shaped so much of my day-to-day life almost ten years later.

I signed up for ceramics out of genuine curiosity. I liked the idea of being able to make something I could actually use, and the wheel just looked fun. I had always loved arts and crafts growing up, so taking an art class felt natural at the time, but I had no idea how much it would stick.

The moment I really got hooked was kiln unloading day. I’d spend the entire week waiting for pieces to dry and fire, wondering if they’d turn out or not. That curiosity took up way more headspace than it probably should have, and honestly, that hasn’t changed. Even now, when I’m firing pieces at home, I’ll spend the whole workday thinking about them and rushing home to see how they came out.

I always knew I’d come back to ceramics at some point. I just didn’t know when. Building IGM took priority over almost everything aspect of my life for a long time, but when I finally returned to clay, so much of it felt familiar. Holding the hole punch tools brought me right back to late high school, and after about forty-five vessels, the muscle memory of throwing started to come back too.

Today, ceramics has become a creative outlet where I have full control. While my work with IGM allows me to be creative, it comes with structure and constraints. Being in the studio, working with clay, is different. It’s slower, more intuitive, and honestly a very healing place to be.

I guess the reminder here is to try new things. Even the small ones. You never really know which moments will end up impacting your life years down the road.

#ceramics #artiststory #corterra #pottery #art

From raw earth to refined form, clay goes through a remarkable transformation. This process has always been one of the things that draws Shea and I into the art, as it is a gentle reminder that change is not only necessary, but meaningful. I first fell in love with ceramics in 2016, and even after stepping away for a time, this transformation in the opportunity to create are what kept calling me back.

When I take a step back and compare the events of my own life to those of a candleholder being made, it’s hard not to see the parallels, and what the clay goes through along the way. As the clay moves through each stage of being thrown, carved, fired, glazed, and fired again, it is shaped by pressure, heat, and time. During throwing, it is pushed, pulled, and stretched. While there is some level of finesse, the process itself is not gentle. Yet it lays the foundation for what the piece will eventually become. In many ways, it mirrors, the seasons of our own lives. Moments that feel overwhelming or uncomfortable often mark the beginning of growth.

When making our candleholders, the next stage is carving. Each hole is punched by hand, one by one. It is a process that strips away much of what was originally there, and in a literal sense, adds nothing. This has always been one of my favorite parts of the process. It reminds me that sometimes growth doesn’t come from adding more, but from letting go and trusting the process, as more often than not, it allows a small light to shine through.

By the time the piece is glazed, fired, and finally lit, it carries the evidence of every stage it has passed through. And like the clay, I found the obstacles I have overcome, and challenges I’ve endured, leave me changed for the better.

#corterra #ceramics #pottery #handmade #candleholder

From raw earth to refined form, clay goes through a remarkable transformation. This process has always been one of the things that draws Shea and I into the art, as it is a gentle reminder that change is not only necessary, but meaningful. I first fell in love with ceramics in 2016, and even after stepping away for a time, this transformation in the opportunity to create are what kept calling me back.

When I take a step back and compare the events of my own life to those of a candleholder being made, it’s hard not to see the parallels, and what the clay goes through along the way. As the clay moves through each stage of being thrown, carved, fired, glazed, and fired again, it is shaped by pressure, heat, and time. During throwing, it is pushed, pulled, and stretched. While there is some level of finesse, the process itself is not gentle. Yet it lays the foundation for what the piece will eventually become. In many ways, it mirrors, the seasons of our own lives. Moments that feel overwhelming or uncomfortable often mark the beginning of growth.

When making our candleholders, the next stage is carving. Each hole is punched by hand, one by one. It is a process that strips away much of what was originally there, and in a literal sense, adds nothing. This has always been one of my favorite parts of the process. It reminds me that sometimes growth doesn’t come from adding more, but from letting go and trusting the process, as more often than not, it allows a small light to shine through.

By the time the piece is glazed, fired, and finally lit, it carries the evidence of every stage it has passed through. And like the clay, I found the obstacles I have overcome, and challenges I’ve endured, leave me changed for the better.

#corterra #ceramics #pottery #handmade #candleholder

On January 25th, the first CORTERRA shop drop goes live. Candleholders, just like this, and more, will be available. Each vessel is thrown by hand, each hole individually punched, and each one uniquely glazed.

What has made this first collection especially meaningful for me is how much joy I’ve found in the making itself. From the rhythm of the wheel to the quiet focus of carving, every piece has been created with intention. No two are the same, and each carries its own character.

We will be sharing early access and details through our online newsletter. So make sure to join via the link in our bio.

#corterra #candleholder #ceramics #wheelthrownceramics #potter

On January 25th, the first CORTERRA shop drop goes live. Candleholders, just like this, and more, will be available. Each vessel is thrown by hand, each hole individually punched, and each one uniquely glazed.

What has made this first collection especially meaningful for me is how much joy I’ve found in the making itself. From the rhythm of the wheel to the quiet focus of carving, every piece has been created with intention. No two are the same, and each carries its own character.

We will be sharing early access and details through our online newsletter. So make sure to join via the link in our bio.

#corterra #candleholder #ceramics #wheelthrownceramics #potter

Getting back into the swing of things has reminded me that failure isn’t something to avoid, but a necessary part of learning.

#ceramics #corterra #potterywheel #wheelthrownceramics #handmade

Getting back into the swing of things has reminded me that failure isn’t something to avoid, but a necessary part of learning.

#ceramics #corterra #potterywheel #wheelthrownceramics #handmade

From raw earth to refined form, clay goes through a remarkable transformation. This process has always been one of the things that draws Shea and I into the art, as it is a gentle reminder that change is not only necessary, but meaningful. I first fell in love with ceramics in 2016, and even after stepping away for a time, this transformation in the opportunity to create are what kept calling me back.

When I take a step back and compare the events of my own life to those of a candleholder being made, it’s hard not to see the parallels, and what the clay goes through along the way. As the clay moves through each stage of being thrown, carved, fired, glazed, and fired again, it is shaped by pressure, heat, and time. During throwing, it is pushed, pulled, and stretched. While there is some level of finesse, the process itself is not gentle. Yet it lays the foundation for what the piece will eventually become. In many ways, it mirrors, the seasons of our own lives. Moments that feel overwhelming or uncomfortable often mark the beginning of growth.

When making our candleholders, the next stage is carving. Each hole is punched by hand, one by one. It is a process that strips away much of what was originally there, and in a literal sense, adds nothing. This has always been one of my favorite parts of the process. It reminds me that sometimes growth doesn’t come from adding more, but from letting go and trusting the process, as more often than not, it allows a small light to shine through.

By the time the piece is glazed, fired, and finally lit, it carries the evidence of every stage it has passed through. And like the clay, I found the obstacles I have overcome, and challenges I’ve endured, leave me changed for the better.

#corterra #ceramics #pottery #candleholder #tealight

From raw earth to refined form, clay goes through a remarkable transformation. This process has always been one of the things that draws Shea and I into the art, as it is a gentle reminder that change is not only necessary, but meaningful. I first fell in love with ceramics in 2016, and even after stepping away for a time, this transformation in the opportunity to create are what kept calling me back.

When I take a step back and compare the events of my own life to those of a candleholder being made, it’s hard not to see the parallels, and what the clay goes through along the way. As the clay moves through each stage of being thrown, carved, fired, glazed, and fired again, it is shaped by pressure, heat, and time. During throwing, it is pushed, pulled, and stretched. While there is some level of finesse, the process itself is not gentle. Yet it lays the foundation for what the piece will eventually become. In many ways, it mirrors, the seasons of our own lives. Moments that feel overwhelming or uncomfortable often mark the beginning of growth.

When making our candleholders, the next stage is carving. Each hole is punched by hand, one by one. It is a process that strips away much of what was originally there, and in a literal sense, adds nothing. This has always been one of my favorite parts of the process. It reminds me that sometimes growth doesn’t come from adding more, but from letting go and trusting the process, as more often than not, it allows a small light to shine through.

By the time the piece is glazed, fired, and finally lit, it carries the evidence of every stage it has passed through. And like the clay, I found the obstacles I have overcome, and challenges I’ve endured, leave me changed for the better.

#corterra #ceramics #pottery #candleholder #tealight

A glimpse into the making of a piece from our Serendipity Collection. Although each hole is unplanned and placed organically the end result is nothing short of extraordinary.

Now we just cross our fingers and hope this piece survives the bisque and glaze firing🤞🏼

@skuttkilns
@amacobrent
@clayartcentertacoma
@waclayart

#corterra #ceramics #handmade #pottery #wheelthrownceramics

A glimpse into the making of a piece from our Serendipity Collection. Although each hole is unplanned and placed organically the end result is nothing short of extraordinary.

Now we just cross our fingers and hope this piece survives the bisque and glaze firing🤞🏼

@skuttkilns
@amacobrent
@clayartcentertacoma
@waclayart

#corterra #ceramics #handmade #pottery #wheelthrownceramics

We’re back! 👋 After a six year hiatus from ceramics I’ve taken the dive back into it, and are more excited than ever to start creating again! Whether you’ve been following me for a while, new to our account, or just curious about what’s happened over the past six years check it out! 👇🏼👇🏼👇🏼

2016 - I took my first ceramics class in high school and was immediately drawn to the functional nature of ceramics.

Winter 2017 - My parents supported me in building a home studio in their garage, complete with a wheel, kiln, glazes, and all the works!

Summer 2017-2018 - I took the leap and turned ceramics into my first job selling my art at the @waterfrontfarmersmarket Officially hooked, I began building a following and stocked my work in local boutiques while still selling at farmers markets and branching into custom commercial orders.

Fall 2018 - High school ended and college began which drew my focus away from ceramics. When attending WWU my focus was set as a business major, and despite my efforts I couldn’t touch ceramics as non–art majors couldn’t use the studio. But boredom breeds creativity, I was able to refocus my entrepreneurial energy and began a marketing and branding agency focused on content development and strategy. (Now know as @in_gearmedia , which I LOVE so so much!)

Fall 2021 - I sold all of my ceramic equipment to focus full-time on growing IGM.

Summer 2025 - My wife (@shea_shea55 ) and I made the decision to jump back into it and built a home studio complete with the works! We were both thrilled to share a passion for ceramics and be able to create, try new things and grow together!

Present - We spend our evenings after work in the studio creating, growing, and chasing Carl around the house after he steals a pieces of clay! 🐾

#ceramics #pottery #clay #corterra

We’re back! 👋 After a six year hiatus from ceramics I’ve taken the dive back into it, and are more excited than ever to start creating again! Whether you’ve been following me for a while, new to our account, or just curious about what’s happened over the past six years check it out! 👇🏼👇🏼👇🏼

2016 - I took my first ceramics class in high school and was immediately drawn to the functional nature of ceramics.

Winter 2017 - My parents supported me in building a home studio in their garage, complete with a wheel, kiln, glazes, and all the works!

Summer 2017-2018 - I took the leap and turned ceramics into my first job selling my art at the @waterfrontfarmersmarket Officially hooked, I began building a following and stocked my work in local boutiques while still selling at farmers markets and branching into custom commercial orders.

Fall 2018 - High school ended and college began which drew my focus away from ceramics. When attending WWU my focus was set as a business major, and despite my efforts I couldn’t touch ceramics as non–art majors couldn’t use the studio. But boredom breeds creativity, I was able to refocus my entrepreneurial energy and began a marketing and branding agency focused on content development and strategy. (Now know as @in_gearmedia , which I LOVE so so much!)

Fall 2021 - I sold all of my ceramic equipment to focus full-time on growing IGM.

Summer 2025 - My wife (@shea_shea55 ) and I made the decision to jump back into it and built a home studio complete with the works! We were both thrilled to share a passion for ceramics and be able to create, try new things and grow together!

Present - We spend our evenings after work in the studio creating, growing, and chasing Carl around the house after he steals a pieces of clay! 🐾

#ceramics #pottery #clay #corterra

FIRST MARKET!!! I’m super excited to announce that tomorrow will be my first farmers market of the summer! Make sure you stop by downtown Gig Harbor to pick up some of my new limited products! ⛵️⛵️⛵️

FIRST MARKET!!! I’m super excited to announce that tomorrow will be my first farmers market of the summer! Make sure you stop by downtown Gig Harbor to pick up some of my new limited products! ⛵️⛵️⛵️

Today is the day! My last Farmers Market for the summer!! Make sure you stop by downtown Gig Harbor today from 1-7pm to say hi! #nategravesart

Today is the day! My last Farmers Market for the summer!! Make sure you stop by downtown Gig Harbor today from 1-7pm to say hi! #nategravesart

#nategravesart

#nategravesart

Waterfront Farmers Market today!!! Stop by downtown Gig Harbor from 1-7pm! @waterfrontfarmersmarket #nategravesart

Waterfront Farmers Market today!!! Stop by downtown Gig Harbor from 1-7pm! @waterfrontfarmersmarket #nategravesart

Make sure you stop by the Steilacoom Farmers Market tomorrow!! I started with almost 400 candleholders, but am down to 60 so stop by and get yours!! #nategravesart

Make sure you stop by the Steilacoom Farmers Market tomorrow!! I started with almost 400 candleholders, but am down to 60 so stop by and get yours!! #nategravesart

It’s been a while since I’ve posted, but I’m excited to pick it back up! Hope everyone has been having a great summer! #nategravesart

It’s been a while since I’ve posted, but I’m excited to pick it back up! Hope everyone has been having a great summer! #nategravesart

Super excited to announce that I will be at the Steilacoom farmers market for the first time this Wednesday! It will be from 3-7pm, hope to see you there!! #nategravesart

Super excited to announce that I will be at the Steilacoom farmers market for the first time this Wednesday! It will be from 3-7pm, hope to see you there!! #nategravesart

Thank you to everyone who came out to the farmers market yesterday! It was great to see returning smiles as well as new ones!! 🏔☀️🌊 #nategravesart

Thank you to everyone who came out to the farmers market yesterday! It was great to see returning smiles as well as new ones!! 🏔☀️🌊 #nategravesart

Stop by downtown Gig Harbor from 1-7pm and check out this bowl along with many other unique pieces!!! Hope to see you there! #nategravesart

Stop by downtown Gig Harbor from 1-7pm and check out this bowl along with many other unique pieces!!! Hope to see you there! #nategravesart

Only 2 more days until the start of the Market!!! Make sure you stop by anytime from 1pm-7pm and say hi! I’m excited to show new colors, designs and product! #nategravesart

Only 2 more days until the start of the Market!!! Make sure you stop by anytime from 1pm-7pm and say hi! I’m excited to show new colors, designs and product! #nategravesart

Counting down the weeks until the @waterfrontfarmersmarket begins!! Super excited to regularly participate this year!! #nategravesart

Counting down the weeks until the @waterfrontfarmersmarket begins!! Super excited to regularly participate this year!! #nategravesart

#nategravesart

#nategravesart

In love with this new design!😍😍😍 it’s kind of hard to see, but there are small holes going up and down the sides, which looks stunning when lit up! #nategravesart

In love with this new design!😍😍😍 it’s kind of hard to see, but there are small holes going up and down the sides, which looks stunning when lit up! #nategravesart

#nategravesart

#nategravesart

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