Hi, I’m Laura 👋
A neurodivergent mum of two who loves coffee, 80s music, dancing and being creative! I appreciate every customer and can’t wait to welcome you to Painting Pots. My main aim is to ensure you feel comfortable, welcome and that your visit is the best it can be.
I took the business on in very early 2016, and fell pregnant with my little boy that same year! Initially based at Henshaws Arts and Crafts centre, I moved to Castlegate in 2018. Through the COVID years, the business continued thanks to our paint-at-home Kits, takeaway crafts and online workshops.
Now, 10 years after immersing myself in Painting Pots and the PYOP world, I find myself with a gorgeous team around me, a community full of kind and thoughtful supporters and fellow business owners to collaborate with and cheer for!
What Makes Painting Pots Special?
At Painting Pots, creativity is at the heart of everything we do. We provide a space where people of all ages can express themselves, feel empowered, and be proud of their creations. Our studio is filled with inspiration, positivity, and endless possibilities.
Stef
Glazing and firing masterStef is the our glazing and firing master…. She’s likely to be in the basement loading the kiln or completing commissions, artwork and writing on your gorgeous keepsakes. “Painting Pots is like a creative home away from home, but you don’t have to clean up the mess afterwards! We are inclusive and chaotic, full of laughter and imagination.”
Kitty
The Creative OneKitty joined the team in February 2026, she can be found doing… everything!! Kitty loves glazing and loading pottery into the kilns, making stock for the shelves and organising Laura!! She absolutely adores supporting customers ideas and helping them with their creativity, but seeing final finished pieces come out of the kiln is her favourite bit of her working day.
Olivia
Pottery wrapping ExpertOlivia has learnt over the last few years that part of her job on a Saturday morning is keeping me focused on my jobs!! ‘Liv’ loves bagging up your pottery and coming along to school fairs! “My favourite event so far has been when we went to New Park Primary School for our painting event. The lovely sunny day eventually turned dark and rain poured down on us. Even though we (and the pots) were soaked to the bone, it was the most fun I’ve had!”
Leah
Chief custodian of the sinkLeah has currently been with the team the longest and is studying at York College. She adores washing up and can usually be found ‘in the sink’!! “My absolute favourite piece I have ever painted has to be one of the highland cows, although there are so many others to choose from!”
Bella
Exquisite slime makerBella is more often than not helping me lead our parties… an exquisite slime maker, and brilliant Candy floss artist, Bella will often be found supporting at our slime, Glow in the Dark and Squishie parties! “My favourite party to help host is a slime party… I like seeing everyone try to do our challenges and win a medal!”
Sophie
Miss ReliableSophie has been working on and off at Painting pots since 2021, she’s now studying away at university but come back to us during holidays- and we love to have her strong work ethic and hilarious sense of humour back in the studio! “My favourite memory of working at Painting Pots over the years was our Harry Potter event! It was so fun dressing up and having lots of magical themed activities!”
