I have been making earthenware tableware for eight years or so. I decided I wanted to make pottery on a wheel, and since there was nowhere to learn locally, I was persuaded to go ahead and buy a second hand wheel. I had the help of my husbands aunt, a retired potter, for several weekends near the beginning to help me with the basics and in setting things up, and she is still on the end of the phone for questions.

So far I have made everything on the wheel using terracotta clay. In the last few months I have also been experimenting with some white clay. I make bowls, cups, plates, anything for the table. I have been focusing on the throwing side, but I am now trying to expand the decorating side. I like the decoration to be simple and direct. I also like pots to be light.

My favourite make, I think, has to be a large bowl when it all goes right from the start. In no time at all you have a very evenly thrown, nicely shaped, sizeable bowl. Very satisfying. My goal this year is to make these a good deal bigger.