Sudbury woman finds true calling with launch of pottery business

A woman from Sudbury has found her calling after quitting her job as a cashier to launch her own business.

Pottery provided a comfort and coping mechanism as a teenager for Rachael Pedersen, which later developed into a passionate hobby.

“I started pottery when I was struggling with emotional issues,” said the 31-year-old. “I have always found it therapeutic.”

After gaining qualifications in design and ceramics, Mrs Pedersen, of Minden Road, decided to pursue a more fulfilling career, which gave her the spur to set up Sudbury Pottery Class.

She has praised the health benefits of the craft, describing them as a boost to her mental wellbeing.

“It can be quite personal,” she said. “A lot of people don’t realise how it can help.”

One class member, whose beloved dog died, made a plaque which provided closure and made a long-lasting tribute.

Members have the freedom to work on their own projects over an eight-week course during the sessions.

Mrs Pedersen encourages people with little or no artistic skills to take part in the workshops.

“A lot of art venues tend to look down on those without any artistic ability; but I think it’s important to step away from that,” she said.

The first workshops were held at The Stevenson Centre in Great Cornard, which then moved temporarily to florist Juniper Flowers in North Street.

Mrs Pedersen now leases a studio in Brundon Lane after making the bold decision to quit her job at a homesware store to set up her own business.

“My husband has been really supportive – he’s done so much,” she said, adding that her parents were a little unsure at first but are very proud of her achievement.

Mrs Pedersen plans to expand the sessions to cater for larger groups, with space for regular demonstrations.

“There’s many aspects of ceramics, so it would be great to expand,” she said.

For more information about the pottery sessions, go online to www.sudburypotteryclass.co.uk, or call 07572 574763.