At Main Street Collective, we’re honored to welcome The Wheel in the Window Pottery Studio to our vibrant community of artisans and creators. Owned and operated by Diane Shepherd, this unique pottery studio is more than just a place to create—it’s a symbol of resilience, passion, and the power of community.
A Legacy Rooted in Hattiesburg
The Wheel in the Window Pottery Studio is part of the Main Street Books collection of stores—a beloved local treasure that began its journey in November 2002. Founded by Diane and her late husband, Main Street Books first opened its doors at 205 Main Street before outgrowing the space and moving to its current location at 210 Main Street in Historic Downtown Hattiesburg.
For more than 17 years, Diane has been driven by her entrepreneurial spirit and a deep love for the community. Main Street Books has become a staple of Downtown Hattiesburg, offering not only books but a sense of belonging for locals and visitors alike.
From Books to Bowls: A Passion for Giving Back
Diane’s passion for making a difference extends far beyond running a successful business. Motivated by a sense of charity and community connection, Diane brought the Empty Bowls program to Hattiesburg in 2012. This initiative, partnered with the Edwards Street Food Pantry, helps feed hungry neighbors by raising awareness and funds through handcrafted bowls.
Her spirit of giving didn’t stop there. In 2018, Diane founded the Give a Child a Book program, which delivered 500 books to local children through Christian Services’ annual ‘Birthday Party for Jesus’. These programs are not just events—they are a testament to Diane’s commitment to making Hattiesburg a better place for everyone.
The Wheel in the Window: Where Creativity Thrives
Inspired by her love of pottery making, Diane added a pottery studio to the bookstore—thus, The Wheel in the Window was born. Open to all ages and perfect for special occasions, the studio quickly became a space where people could gather to create, learn, and share.
Diane’s goal is to share her passion for pottery with the community while continuing to offer the unique, welcoming experience that Main Street Books is known for. Whether you’re a beginner wanting to try wheel throwing for the first time or a seasoned potter looking for a creative outlet, The Wheel in the Window offers classes that cater to every level of experience.
Pottery Classes: Hands-On Creativity
At The Wheel in the Window, there’s a class for everyone:
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Handbuilding Classes: Perfect for those who enjoy sculpting pottery by hand, these sessions teach fundamental techniques to create unique pieces.
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Wheel Throwing Classes: Learn the basics of throwing pottery on the wheel, guided by skilled instruction.
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Specialty Classes: Fun events like Pottery Date Night, where couples can enjoy a creative evening together while crafting handmade pottery.
Diane’s classes are designed to be inclusive, fun, and hands-on, offering a relaxed atmosphere where creativity can flourish.
Art from the Heart: Handmade Pottery
Beyond classes, The Wheel in the Window also offers a selection of handcrafted pottery for sale. Each piece is uniquely designed by Diane, blending traditional techniques with a modern aesthetic. From rustic mugs and decorative bowls to more intricate art pieces, her pottery reflects both the natural beauty of clay and her dedication to quality craftsmanship.
Diane’s creations are more than just functional—they’re expressions of passion and perseverance, shaped by hand and fired with love. Bringing one of her pieces into your home means owning a part of Hattiesburg’s creative spirit.
A New Chapter Begins
Diane’s story is one of growth, giving, and creating a space where people can come together to celebrate art and community. The Wheel in the Window Pottery Studio continues this legacy, building on the success and spirit of Main Street Books while offering something new to the Pine Belt area.
We’re thrilled to have Diane and The Wheel in the Window as part of the Main Street Collective. Her dedication to creativity, community, and craftsmanship makes her a perfect fit, and we can’t wait to see how her studio continues to inspire.
Visit The Wheel in the Window Pottery Studio
Experience the joy of pottery and the heart of community at The Wheel in the Window. Whether you’re signing up for a class or looking for a unique handmade piece, Diane’s studio is ready to welcome you with open arms.
