Conversations with Jaime Paiton

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jaime Paiton

Hi Jaime, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I began slinging clay in my garage in the summer of 2020 with my friend Tiana, and we had NO idea what we were doing, though it was a lot of laughs. The wheel was a gift from my husband and when I finally decided to take a class and start creating pottery, we created a little studio in a room in our house that was never used. It was fun to slowly put things together and by August of 2023, I was already phased out of my career and ready to work for myself. JPP Pottery was created, not without mistakes!

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It has been a challenging but a great growth experience to build a business. Challenging my confidence, belief in my skills not related to pottery have been tested and much help has been received. I couldn’t and wouldn’t want to do all of this on my own and am so thankful to have my husband helping me, big time, with this endeavor. It’s fun to think that to have a pottery business, you just have to create ceramic pieces and sell them. There is so much more, and taking it all in stride has been a long lesson I’m still learning. Kiln repairs, taxes, website, applications, deadlines, procrastination… Kudos to those trudging through this on their own, I hope you reach out for help as you need!

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Initially, we were hoping to provide unique mostly functional and decorative gifts for people to give to others or themselves, which we do. I also now have a new plan to incorporate pieces related to social and environmental justice organizations around us. You know, the ones that provide essential support and fight for environmental and human rights. My hope is to learn more from and keep awareness on organizations like BLM, MMIW, PRIDE, Earth Justice, and provide a little financial help as well.

Currently, I mostly make mugs that are hand carved and earth-toned, or of a more whimsical and colorful nature. We also make planters, right now honing in on specialty plant pots for bonsai and orchids. I enjoy also making berry bowls, berry shooters (smaller/ single size), spoon rests, trinket dishes and some other randoms. We sell at art markets and festivals in and around the Raleigh area. Last year, I was lucky enough to become a member of WomanCraft Gifts in Carrboro, NC. This co-op has been going strong for 50+ years and I’m happy to be a part of it.

Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
Long mornings make me so happy. I am grateful that I can take my time with a meditation, coffee and whatever. I seem to work with more attention in the evenings, and I often work after dinner for 3+ hours. So, I don’t feel guilty for taking my time in the mornings!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Jpppottery.com
• Instagram: @jpppottery