Our story
Learn more about Mud Dabbers and our legacy of community, creativity, and commitment to our customers
Brad Dodson, Owner and Studio Potter
“The Dodson family began making pottery together in the 1970s under the guidance of John Dodson in Fortson, Georgia, just north of Columbus. Along with his wife Sybil, John O. Dodson opened the first Mud Dabbers shop in Brevard, NC in 1988, the beginning of a legacy that would last for generations.”
The Mud Dabbers name was inspired by dirt daubers, insects who build their nests from mud. These friendly insects found the Dodsons' drying pots to be the perfect source of building supplies. The smiling Mud Dabber logo, drawn by son John E. Dodson at age 12, symbolizes the joy and happiness the family hopes will be yours in the sharing of their craft.
In 1997, John and Sybil's son Brad opened a new Mud Dabbers location just outside Waynesville, NC in the Balsam area, beginning a new generation of Mud Dabbers potters. John E. Dodson continues to operate the inaugural Mud Dabbers in Brevard, NC, alongside his wife, Carol.
Mud Dabbers and the Dodson family continues their legacy as a core part of the artistic culture in our Appalachia community.
If you can't make it to our Balsam location in person, don't worry! Contact us on Facebook or at (828) 456-1916 to find out more about our selection of functional and decorative stoneware pottery in our store.
Learn more about our full Mud Dabbers family here