Every now and then, I come across a vintage piece that feels like it has a story to tell. That was exactly the case when I recently found a dish labeled Vernonware Homespun. Its soft, hand-painted edges and cozy, country charm immediately pulled me in. Naturally, I had to learn more — and what I uncovered was a fascinating bit of American pottery history worth sharing.If you’re a fellow lover of vintage ceramics, mid-century design, or just good old-fashioned Americana, you’ll enjoy this journey into the warm and welcoming world of Vernonware Homespun.
What Is Vernonware Homespun?
Homespun is a pattern created by Vernon Kilns, a pottery company based in Vernon, California. Introduced in the 1940s, this line of dinnerware stood out for its handmade look — soft, sponge-like borders, muted colors, and a simplicity that gave it a warm, homespun feel (hence the name!).It perfectly captures the farmhouse aesthetic that so many of us still love today. Picture a country kitchen filled with natural wood, sunshine, and a few mismatched plates from Grandma’s cupboard — that’s the charm of Homespun.This dinnerware wasn’t just pretty to look at — it was made for everyday life. Sturdy, functional, and down-to-earth, Homespun was designed to bring a touch of beauty to daily meals.
The Story Behind Vernon Kilns
The company’s history is just as interesting as the dinnerware itself.Originally known as Poxon China, the company was bought in 1931 by Faye G. Bennison and renamed Vernon Kilns. It operated out of Southern California and quickly became known for producing cheerful, hand-painted pottery — something that really resonated with people during the Great Depression and World War II.Vernon Kilns didn’t just mass-produce pieces; they worked with real artists and designers who brought creativity and personality to each pattern. They collaborated with figures like May and Vieve Hamilton, and even produced lines based on work by cartoonist James Thurber and designer Rockwell Kent.Sadly, the factory closed in 1958, but the legacy lives on in the form of its beautiful and collectible pottery — like the Homespun line.
What Makes Homespun So Special?
There’s something undeniably comforting about Vernonware Homespun. While other mid-century dinnerware embraced sleek lines and modernist patterns, Homespun celebrated the handcrafted and humble. Each piece feels personal, as though it was made with care and attention rather than churned out in a factory.The pattern typically features soft, brushed borders in earthy tones. These include warm browns, dusty blues, and soft greens. They are set against a creamy background. Because these details were often hand-applied, no two pieces are exactly alike.Homespun was made in a full range of dinnerware pieces: dinner and salad plates, soup and cereal bowls, cups and saucers, pitchers, platters, serving bowls, and even teapots. Most are marked on the bottom with “Vernonware Homespun” or “Vernon Kilns USA,” which makes them easy to spot for collectors.
Collecting and Enjoying Homespun Today
Whether you’re a serious vintage collector or just love adding personality to your home, Vernonware Homespun is a delightful pattern to bring into your space. It’s perfect for mixing and matching with other vintage or modern pieces. It adds a touch of nostalgia without feeling overly delicate or fussy.Pieces can often be found at antique shops, estate sales, flea markets, and online marketplaces. Prices vary depending on the condition and rarity of the item. Still, many are quite affordable. This is especially true compared to other vintage pottery.Some collectors hunt for entire sets, while others enjoy building eclectic table settings from different Vernonware patterns. But you choose to collect, Homespun is sure to bring a sense of comfort and charm to your home.
A Piece of American Pottery History
Finding that first Homespun dish opened the door to a whole world of vintage pottery I hadn’t fully appreciated before. There’s something incredibly grounding about using or displaying something made decades ago. It was crafted with intention and artistry during a very different time in American history.Vernonware Homespun isn’t just dinnerware — it’s a little time capsule of mid-century life. It tells the story of how people found beauty in everyday things, even during difficult times.If you ever stumble upon a piece, take a moment to enjoy its character. Who knows — it will spark your own journey into the rich, colorful world of vintage ceramics.
Cindy Barron May 28/2028
Sources & Further Reading
- Lehner, Lois. Lehner’s Encyclopedia of U.S. Marks on Pottery, Porcelain & Clay. Collector Books, 1988.
- Reilly, Suzy. Vernon Kilns: Dinnerware, Giftware & Art Pottery, 1931–1958. Schiffer Publishing, 1996.
- ThePotteries.org – Vernon Kilns
- Kovels – Vernon Kilns Information
- Warman’s Americana & Collectibles, 6th Edition. Krause Publications, 2005.