Ron Pippitt had long been fascinated by ceramics, having collected numerous pieces from his international trips, but had never taken a pottery class until after retiring in 2004. He joined a night class sponsored by the Delavan Rec and Parks Department and was “hooked” immediately. Very soon after the class he purchased a wheel, then a used kiln, and embarked on a new hobby. It grew substantially to a second wheel and a new computer-controlled kiln.

Largely self-taught, he enjoys devising procedures that simplify wheel throwing. He sells his work in craft shows and from his studio located in his home in Delavan. Teaching has always been a favorite, having done seminars on pumps and hydraulics, so sharing his hobby one-on-one is a natural.

He assures students that he is a prime example of the adage that “You can teach an old dog new tricks.”