I've been seeing the folks from Circa Ceramics on the art and craft show circuit for some time. I also see a lot of Circa Ceramics' pieces featured in Chicago house tours. Their colorful handmade ceramics are just what the doctor ordered for brightening up a dull table, kitchen counter or desktop.

Circa Ceramics started out as a creative outlet while owners Andy Witt and Nancy Pizarro were maintaining dead end jobs back in 1999. All these years later, the future of their business is anything but a dead end. Their cups, containers and magnets, with their colorful paints and iconic images, are a hit on the craft show circuit. They've also gotten the attention of the DIY press, having done interviews for the etsy blog, Austinist, and Indie Fixx.

Circa Ceramic pieces are perfect for at-home use — who wouldn't want to eat their morning cereal out of a pencil sharpener bowl? — and also ideal of the upcoming gift giving season. Think outside the box a little and use one of their vases as a pencil holder or a plate as a catch-all by the front door.

When shopping Circa Ceramics' etsy store, expect a three-week lead time as all pieces are made to order. If you're in Chicago, you can save on shipping by picking up your order from their studio.

• The Urban Set in School $65
• Cylinder Sacred Heart $70
• Little Plate 45 Insert $30
• Chicago Flag Mug $32
• Each item is stamped on the bottom with Circa's logo

(Images: Circa Ceramics)

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Store History

• Founded: 2007
• Founded by: Andy Witt & Nancy Pizarro
• Headquarters: Chicago

Around the Web

• Etsy Seller Interview [Etsy]
• Wednesday Indie Artist Fixx with Circa Ceramics [Indie Fixx]
• Renegade Craft Fair Interview: Circa Ceramics [Austinist]

Website

circaceramics.com