Carter Pottery

Ben Carter is a ceramic professional based in Howell, NJ who maintains a studio, teaches workshops, and exhibits nationally. He is the host of the Tales of a Red Clay Rambler podcast and the executive producer of The Brickyard Network, a collection of ceramic podcasts. He has authored Mastering the Potter’s Wheel by Voyageur Press in 2016, The Complete Guide to Low Fire Glaze by Quarry Press in 2024, and was named Ceramic Artist of the Year in 2016 by Ceramics Monthly.

Unlock the world of low-fire glazes with The Complete Guide to Low-Fire Glazes for Potters and Sculptors. Potter, podcaster, and author of Mastering the Potter’s Wheel, Ben Carter, challenges the belief that serious artists work exclusively with high-temperature materials, sharing years of research on crafting exquisite low-fire pots and glazes. Delve into the benefits of firing at lower temperatures, explore the visual nuances of low-fire glazes, and witness renowned artists thriving in this temperature range. Illustrated with stunning photography of work by Carter and over 95 other artists, including Lisa Naples, Andrea Gill, Matt Wedel, and many more. Purchase a signed copy of The Complete Guide to Low-Fire Glazes for Potters and Sculptors. Available now on Amazon, Barnes and Noble and other major booksellers.

"Ben Carter provides a clear and valuable understanding of one of the more complex aspects of glazes. This book is a must-own for anyone looking to take control of their low-temperature glazes." - Matt Katz, Co-founder of the Ceramics Material Workshop

"This firing range and its materials are a fertile place for creativity and art-making that has often been ignored, glossed-over, or even vilified. I’m so glad Ben is sharing his love for and knowledge of low-fire glazes." - Linda Arbuckle, Professor Emerita of Art (Ceramics), University of Florida

"This book would be useful for anyone, novice or expert, who is looking for proven low-fire recipes from successful artists. I know that this book will have a place on my bookshelf, and it’s definitely one that I will use and lend to my students." - Pete Pinnell, Professor of Art (Ceramics), University of Nebraska-Lincoln


Mastering the Potter's Wheel begins with an introduction to wheel-throwing before progressing to more complex forms and techniques. This book offers comprehensive instruction, including skill building lessons, exercises to maintain healthy posture, and detailed instruction that will take your throwing to the next level. There are also galleries of inspirational images featuring today's top working potters, including Julia Galloway, Kristen Kieffer, Matt Long, Lorna Meaden, Doug Peltzman, and many more. Purchase a signed copy of Mastering the Potter's Wheel.



"The ultimate 'how to pot' book, this is a must read for anyone pursuing his or her craft through a mindful and holistic approach. Gorgeously photographed process steps, paired with examples of wares by emerging and distinguished makers, contextualize the various processes of potting and set this book apart." - Sarah Millfelt, Director, Northern Clay Center

"Ben Carter's varied experiences working as an independent studio potter, educator, podcast host, arts administrator, artist in residence, and production potter in several countries have given him a unique perspective on different approaches to wheel throwing. In this book he enthusiastically shares the knowledge and tips that he has gathered over the years, providing readers with a wide range of approaches to learn basic skills and then to build on them to create a strong, individual style." - Jessica Knapp, Editor,Ceramics Monthly; Associate Editor, Pottery Making Illustrated

"Ben's thorough knowledge and extensive experience in ceramics comes to the fore in this comprehensive book - helpful advice for beginners with loads of tutorials, well-considered guidance for those with more experience, and galleries of examples to inspire into the future. This book deserves a place on the bookshelf in every ceramics studio." - Vicki Grima, Editor, the Journal of Australian Ceramics

"Mastering the Potter's Wheel is a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about handmade pottery. The book provides clear instructions, thoughtful insights, and includes beautiful images of work from some of the best potters in the field." - Steve Lee, Director, Archie Bray Foundation for the Ceramic Arts

"If I had a book like Mastering the Potter's Wheel when I was a student, I might have had a shot at becoming a passable potter rather than a curator and writer." - Garth Johnson, Curator of Ceramics, Arizona State University Art Museum Ceramics Research Center