Carpe Diem Crafts
Est. 2020 by Liz
McLaughlin
Each piece is thoughtfully made by hand in Idaho. My work is rooted in a love for simple, meaningful objects, especially mugs. Some of my favorite souvenirs from past travels have been locally made pottery, and those pieces sparked my passion to create work that carries both beauty and memory.
Inspired by time spent outdoors and a deep appreciation for adventure, my work reflects a slower, more intentional way of living. Whether it’s a quiet morning with coffee or time spent exploring, I believe the moments we often overlook are the ones that matter most.
"Carpe Diem — "seize the day" — is a reminder to slow down and appreciate the present."
Creating has always been a grounding and restorative process for me. Working with clay offers a sense of calm and clarity, much like being outside in nature. I enjoy allowing each piece to take shape organically, developing its own subtle character through my hands — no two are ever exactly the same.
I work with clay sourced from the Northwest, including BC-6 and Idaho Buff, and fire each piece to over 2,100°F for durability and longevity. All functional ware, aside from glass coasters, is microwave and dishwasher safe.
My hope is that these handmade pieces bring intention, connection, and a sense of calm to your daily rituals — and are enjoyed for years to come.
The Process
What goes into making a mug?
(so glad you asked!)
- 01 Drive to Tacoma, Washington to pick up clay — 8 hours each way.
- 02 Unload 50 lb boxes and haul them to the upstairs studio.
- 03 Weigh out 1.5–2 lbs of clay.
- 04 Wedge (knead) the clay.
- 05 Center it on the wheel and throw the mug shape.
- 06 Let dry 24–48 hours (depending on humidity).
- 07 Cut from the bat.
- 08 Trim on the wheel.
- 09 Create and shape the handle.
- 10 Let it rest, then attach it to the mug.
- 11 Let the mug dry for at least a week.
- 12 If it cracks → recycle the clay and start over.
- 13 Fire in the kiln to 1850°F (about 15 hours).
- 14 If it cracks → discard and start over.
- 15 Clean and prep for glazing.
- 16 Wax the bottom so it doesn’t stick.
- 17 Mix and apply glazes — multiple colors, multiple layers.
- 18 Fire again to ~2180°F (24–28 hours).
- 19 Hold at peak temperature to ensure consistency.
- 20 Wait ~14 hours for the kiln to cool.
- 21 Open kiln…
- 22 If it cracked → start over.
- 23 If it survived — grind the base smooth by hand.
- 24 And finally, put it out for sale.
Our Philosophy
Made by hand. Made to be remembered.
At Carpe Diem Crafts, everything is made with intention. Each piece is thoughtfully created by hand, here in the U.S., with a focus on quality, simplicity, and purpose. No two pieces are exactly alike — and that’s the point. The small variations are what make each one unique.
I believe in making things that last. Not just in durability, but in meaning. Pieces that are used daily, gifted thoughtfully, and carried through moments that matter. In a world of mass production, this is a return to something more personal.