There are moments in running a small creative business that feel exciting, terrifying and incredibly rewarding all at the same time.
This is one of them.
Today I’m launching my very first Kickstarter campaign to support the next chapter of Stories by Ola – my new ceramics studio in Balbriggan, North County Dublin.
Why I’m launching a Kickstarter
Over the past few months, I’ve been moving my studio from Ardgillan Castle to a new space in Balbriggan.
Although the move itself is complete, the transition has been much bigger than I expected. Setting up a working ceramics studio while recovering from the surgery, and spending several weeks away from work meant that everything took longer than planned.
Like many small creative businesses, a delay doesn’t just mean lost time. It also means delayed income while many of the regular costs continue.
That’s why I’ve decided to launch a Kickstarter campaign.
Rather than funding the studio itself, the campaign is supporting the first months of this transition, giving me time to get workshops running, continue creating new ceramic collections, and establish the studio as a welcoming creative space for the local community.
👉 You can support the campaign here: Stories by Ola Ceramics Studio in Balbriggan
What the new studio will offer
The new studio isn’t about becoming bigger.
It’s about creating a better space.
Alongside continuing to make my handmade ceramics inspired by the Irish coastline, I’ll be opening the doors for small-group ceramic workshops in Balbriggan.
I want people to feel comfortable picking up clay for the first time, slowing down for a few hours and enjoying the process of making something with their own hands.
Whether you’ve never touched clay before or you’re returning to ceramics after years away, the studio will be a place to learn, experiment and create.
Kickstarter rewards
I’ve tried to design rewards that feel meaningful while also supporting the studio’s future.
They include:
- Studio Supporter – for anyone who simply wants to help this project happen.
- Clay Mark 2026 – one of the first 100 ceramic pieces created in the new studio, each individually numbered.
- Make Your Own Mug Workshop – create your own ceramic mug during a relaxed handbuilding session.
- Workshop Experiences – spend two sessions learning handbuilding and glazing techniques in the new studio.
- Studio Patron & Founding Patron – for those who would like to leave a lasting mark on the studio’s story.
Every reward helps support this next stage of my business.
👉 Explore all Kickstarter rewards here: Stories by Ola Ceramics Studio in Balbriggan
Why your support matters
Running an independent ceramics business is incredibly rewarding, but it’s also full of moments where you simply have to believe that the next step is worth taking.
This studio represents years of learning, making, teaching and dreaming.
It’s a place where I hope people will discover ceramics for the first time, where returning makers can reconnect with creativity, and where handmade objects continue to be created slowly and thoughtfully.
Every pledge, every share and every conversation helps move that vision forward.
Thank you
Whether you’ve bought one of my ceramics, visited me at a market, attended a workshop or simply followed my journey online, thank you.
Stories by Ola wouldn’t exist without people who believe in handmade craft and choose to support independent makers.
If you’d like to be part of this new chapter, I’d love for you to visit the campaign.
👉 Support the Kickstarter here: Stories by Ola Ceramics Studio in Balbriggan
Thank you for being part of the journey.
Ola x
