Hannah McAndrew
PSYBT Supported Business, Opportunity & Enterprise, The Prince’s Scottish Youth Business Trust
Five years ago I took the brave step to set up my own business, The Barm Pottery. At the time I wasn’t sure if it was something I’d be able to make a business from but five years on my business has gone from strength to strength. My work has become more and more popular over time due to its distinctive patterns and the traditional hand-thrown, slip trailing techniques that I use.
Originally I had studied design and intended to design and sell jewellery, however, during my studies I was inspired by my ceramics tutor to work with clay. I then took on an apprenticeship with an established potter in Dumfries and after 18 months learning the craft I had to make the decision to either move away or set up on my own. It was then that I approached The Prince’s Scottish Youth Business Trust (PSYBT) and was given funding to set up a workshop which was opened to the public and help to equip my studio.
I wanted to start my own business so that I could design what I wanted and use the techniques that worked best for me. After 18 months as an apprentice I had reached a stage where I could no longer afford to stay in that position so I had to consider my options. I knew I wanted to create a pottery business but it was daunting taking the first steps towards doing this. PSYBT really helped at this stage not only financially but also by helping me come to terms with both the financial and management side of having my own business.
I am hoping in the future that I can take on my own apprentice so that I can teach them the skills that I love. Recently, I’ve been working on a range for a company in Yorkshire and planning to take part in more specialist ceramic shows in the United Kingdom to showcase my work and reach new customers.
I’d also like to say a huge thank you to PSYBT for the fabulous help and support they have given me over the past few years. I am indebted to you as I know I would have not got this far in my business without you.
