Why Custom Pottery Knobs
Cabinet hardware is one of the easiest home upgrades, and handmade ceramic knobs are among the most distinctive options. They cost almost nothing to make and dramatically change the character of a kitchen, bathroom, or bedroom.
Making Pottery Knobs
Basic Round Knob
Roll a ball of clay about one to one and a half inches in diameter. Flatten the bottom slightly. Press a bolt into the back to create a threaded socket, or drill a through-hole.
Shaped Knobs
Shape knobs as flowers, leaves, stars, animals, or geometric forms. Keep the grip area smooth for comfort.
Wheel-Thrown Knobs
Throw small, mushroom-shaped forms for a refined, symmetrical look. The stem provides mounting depth.
Mounting Hardware
Through-Bolt Method
Drill a hole through the center matching a standard cabinet screw (number 8-32). Pass the screw through the cabinet door from inside.
Embedded Hardware
Press a threaded insert into the back before firing. Use stainless steel or nichrome hardware that withstands kiln temperatures.
Learn from Stephen Jepson
Stephen's pottery video lessons teach the small-form shaping and surface decoration techniques that knobs require. One-time purchase, lifetime access to all lessons.
Coordinating Knobs Across Rooms
A single set of handmade knobs can tie an entire house together. Use the same clay body and base glaze throughout, but vary the accent colors room by room — blue knobs in the bathroom, green in the kitchen, warm brown in the bedroom. This creates visual continuity while allowing each room its own personality. The consistent form language — all from the same maker, in the same style — provides unity without monotony.
For the biggest impact with the least work, start with the most visible cabinets — the kitchen uppers at eye level or the bathroom vanity. These are the knobs guests notice first. Once you see the transformation, you will be motivated to replace hardware throughout the house. A typical kitchen requires twelve to twenty knobs, which sounds like a lot but goes quickly once you establish a production rhythm. Throw five knobs, let them stiffen, glaze five more, and cycle through until the set is complete.