Potted History

After a short period as The 101 Pottery in nearby Shepshed, the pottery moved to Burton Bandalls Farm, in Cotes, North Leicestershire in 1970. Renamed Muggins Pottery, the founding artists, Dan Moor and Dave Evans, were fresh from art college and keen to make their mark on the world of ceramics. Their concept was to lighten the craft pottery scene and return to English rather than Oriental roots. The vehicle to help achieve our aim was a recreation of the most English of all ceramics – the Toby Jug!

Over the forthcoming years they built up an enviable reputation and exhibited at the prestigious Hampstead Ponds craft fairs (1972-78) and the Harrogate Trade Fairs (1981-90). Much of their pottery has found its way to America via craft fairs held at American Air bases. Also, many people who bought from Muggins in the 70s still buy today - a sure sign of the timeless nature of Muggins. No doubt sales through craft shops of the high quality pottery has also helped tourists from around the world spread the experience and enjoyment of the crazy world of Muggins.

Nowadays Sean Keefe supports Dan Moor in the creation of Muggins Pottery. One of the aspects that ensures the continuing quality and desirability is that just these two craftsmen create all the pieces produced at Muggins. Whilst this limits the availability of the pottery it means that it is their skills, knowledge and humour that will maintain the unique characteristics of their designs.

Much of our original work is still promoted on the excellent English Pottery website - www.englishpottery.co.uk - although most of our range is now shown on this site where you can buy on-line.