New data are presented from a settlement pattern survey of the Tepexi de Rodríguez region of southern Puebla, Mexico, and from excavations of two ceramic Workshops where Thin Orange ceramics, “Teotihuacan's most important trade ware,” were manufactured. Results of the settlement pattern survey reveal that the Tepexi de Rodríguez region, where the trade ware was made, had a flourishing civilization during the Classic period (a.d. 300–750) which enjoyed continuous, intensive contact with Teotihuacan, yet the region was apparently not under the domination of the Teotihuacan state. Data are presented on the techniques of ceramic manufacture, the contexts of pottery production, and the social and economic organization of the potters who made Thin Orange ceramics.