Where to sell pottery: The best places to sell your handmade pottery online and offline

If you have a passion for pottery and want to turn your hobby into a profitable venture, it’s important to know where to sell your handmade creations. Whether you prefer the convenience of selling online or the personal touch of selling in person, there are a variety of options available to showcase and sell your pottery.

When it comes to selling pottery online, there are several popular platforms that cater specifically to artists and artisans. One of the most well-known options is Etsy, an online marketplace where you can create your own shop and sell your pottery directly to buyers worldwide. With its large customer base and easy-to-use interface, Etsy is a great choice for those looking to start selling pottery online.

Another online platform to consider is Shopify, which allows you to create your own customizable online store. This option gives you more control over the design and branding of your shop, and allows you to showcase your pottery in a professional and personalized way. Shopify also offers various tools and features to help you manage your inventory, process payments, and promote your products.

If you prefer selling pottery in person, there are also many offline options available. One popular choice is to sell your pottery at local craft fairs and markets. These events attract a wide range of customers, including those who appreciate handmade and unique items. Participating in craft fairs not only gives you the opportunity to sell your pottery, but also allows you to connect with fellow artists and artisans and gain exposure in your local community.

Another offline option is to approach local galleries and boutiques that specialize in handmade goods. These establishments often look for unique and high-quality items to showcase and sell to their customers. Building relationships with local shop owners can lead to regular sales and a dedicated customer base for your pottery.

Whether you choose to sell your pottery online or offline, it’s important to invest time and effort into creating a strong brand and marketing strategy. This includes taking high-quality photographs of your pottery, writing compelling product descriptions, and promoting your work through social media and other channels. By finding the right platform and utilizing effective marketing techniques, you can successfully sell your handmade pottery and grow your business.

Online marketplaces for selling pottery

Selling pottery online has become increasingly popular in recent years, as it allows artists to reach a wider audience and sell their work to customers from all around the world. There are several online marketplaces specifically tailored to selling handmade pottery, offering artists a platform to showcase and sell their unique creations. Here are some of the best online marketplaces for selling pottery:

Etsy: Etsy is one of the most popular online marketplaces for handmade and vintage items, including pottery. It has a dedicated category for pottery, where artists can list their products and interact with potential buyers.
Artful Home: Artful Home focuses on showcasing and selling fine art and craft, including pottery. Artists can apply to become a part of the Artful Home community and sell their pottery through the platform.
Handmade at Amazon: Handmade at Amazon is a marketplace specifically for handmade items, including pottery. Artists can create their own storefronts and list their pottery for sale on the platform.
Instagram: While not a traditional online marketplace, Instagram has become a popular platform for artists to showcase and sell their pottery. Artists can create a business profile, post photos of their pottery, and interact with potential buyers through comments and direct messages.

These online marketplaces provide artists with the opportunity to reach a large audience and sell their pottery to customers who appreciate handmade, unique pieces. It is important for artists to carefully consider the terms and fees of each marketplace and choose the one that best suits their needs and target audience.

Social media platforms for promoting and selling pottery

Social media platforms have become powerful tools for promoting and selling handmade pottery. These platforms allow makers to showcase their work, build a following, and connect directly with potential customers. Here are some of the top social media platforms for promoting and selling pottery:

Instagram: Instagram is a visually-focused platform that allows artists to share images of their pottery. Makers can create a visually cohesive feed and use popular hashtags to attract attention to their work. Many potters use Instagram’s shopping features to sell their pieces directly through the platform.
Facebook: Facebook offers various ways for potters to promote and sell their work. Artists can create a Facebook Business Page to share updates on their pottery, participate in groups and communities with fellow artists and potential customers, and even run ads to reach a wider audience.
Pinterest: Pinterest is a popular platform for inspiration and discovery. Potters can create boards showcasing their pottery and related content to attract potential buyers. By optimizing their pins with keywords and descriptions, makers can increase their visibility and drive traffic to their online shop or website.
Twitter: Twitter provides a platform for makers to share updates, behind-the-scenes glimpses of their pottery, and engage in conversations with potential customers and fellow artists. By using relevant hashtags and participating in Twitter chats, potters can expand their reach and attract a dedicated following.
Etsy: While not strictly a social media platform, Etsy is a popular online marketplace for handmade goods, including pottery. Makers can create their own shop on Etsy and leverage its built-in audience to promote and sell their pottery. Etsy also offers social features like favoriting, following, and messaging to engage with customers.

Regardless of which social media platforms you choose to use, it’s important to maintain a consistent presence, engage with your audience, and provide high-quality visuals and informative captions to showcase your pottery. Building a strong online presence can lead to increased exposure and sales for your handmade pottery.

Local craft fairs and art exhibitions

Local craft fairs and art exhibitions are an excellent opportunity for pottery artists to showcase and sell their handmade creations. These events provide a platform to connect with a local audience, network with other artists, and gain exposure for your work. Here are some reasons why participating in local craft fairs and art exhibitions can be advantageous for selling your pottery:

Direct customer interaction: Participating in local craft fairs and art exhibitions allows you to interact directly with potential customers. This face-to-face interaction gives you a chance to explain the inspiration behind your creations, talk about your processes, and answer any questions potential buyers may have. It also allows you to receive instant feedback and adjust your approach if necessary.
Networking opportunities: Local craft fairs and art exhibitions attract a diverse group of artists and art enthusiasts. Taking part in these events provides an opportunity to connect with other artists, learn from their experiences, and build relationships within the artistic community. These connections can potentially lead to collaborations, referrals, or future exhibition opportunities.
Showcasing your work: Local craft fairs and art exhibitions allow you to display your pottery in a physical setting. This enables potential customers to see and touch your creations, appreciating the textures, colors, and craftsmanship up close. By showcasing your work in person, you can effectively highlight the unique features of your pottery that may be difficult to convey through online platforms alone.
Targeted local audience: Local craft fairs and art exhibitions often attract residents and visitors who have a specific interest in supporting local artists and artisans. This targeted audience is more likely to appreciate and purchase handmade pottery, as they value the uniqueness and craftsmanship associated with locally-made products. Participating in local events helps you reach a audience that is actively looking to support local talent.
Marketing and promotion: Many craft fairs and art exhibitions have built-in marketing and advertising campaigns to attract attendees. By participating in these events, you benefit from the event’s own promotional efforts, which can help drive more foot traffic to your booth. Additionally, you can leverage your own social media platforms and mailing lists to promote your participation in these events, generating further interest and anticipation for your pottery.

In conclusion, local craft fairs and art exhibitions offer numerous advantages for selling your handmade pottery. These events provide direct customer interaction, networking opportunities, the ability to showcase your work in person, access to a targeted local audience, and built-in marketing and promotion. Participating in these events can help you establish your brand, connect with potential customers, and ultimately increase your pottery sales.

Selling pottery through galleries and shops

One of the traditional ways to sell pottery is through galleries and shops. These spaces provide a platform for artists to showcase their work and reach a wider audience of pottery enthusiasts and collectors.

Here are some steps to consider when selling pottery through galleries and shops:

Research and identify potential galleries and shops: Start by researching and identifying galleries and shops that specialize in selling pottery or have a section dedicated to ceramic art. Look for places that align with your style and aesthetic.
Prepare your portfolio: Put together a portfolio showcasing your best pottery pieces. Include high-quality photographs, detailed descriptions, and any relevant information about your artistic process.
Reach out to the galleries and shops: Contact the galleries and shops you have identified. Introduce yourself, explain your work, and express your interest in selling your pottery through their space. Provide them with your portfolio and ask if they would be interested in showcasing your pieces.
Review and negotiate terms: If a gallery or shop shows interest in your work, review and negotiate the terms of the agreement. This includes discussing the commission rate, pricing, duration of the exhibition, and any other relevant details. Make sure you are comfortable with the terms before proceeding.
Prepare your pottery for display: Once the agreement is finalized, prepare your pottery for display. This may involve creating a cohesive collection, packaging your pieces to ensure their safety during transit, and organizing any necessary paperwork or labeling.
Promote your exhibition: Work with the gallery or shop to promote your exhibition. This may include participating in opening events, sharing the exhibition details on social media, and inviting your network of friends, family, and pottery enthusiasts to attend.
Be present during the exhibition: Whenever possible, try to be present during the exhibition. This allows you to connect with potential buyers, answer questions about your work, and gain valuable feedback.
Follow up and maintain relationships: After the exhibition, follow up with the gallery or shop to discuss the sales and gather feedback. Maintain a good relationship with the gallery or shop for future opportunities.

Selling pottery through galleries and shops can be a rewarding experience. It allows you to showcase your work in a professional setting and connect with a community of pottery enthusiasts who appreciate the importance of handmade ceramics.

Creating an online store for selling pottery

When it comes to selling pottery online, creating your own online store can be a great option. Having your own online store gives you more control over your brand, product listings, and customer experience. Here are some steps to help you create an online store for selling pottery:

Choose an e-commerce platform: There are several e-commerce platforms available that make it easy to set up an online store. Some popular options include Shopify, WooCommerce, and Etsy.
Register a domain name: To create a professional online store, you’ll need to register a domain name. Choose a name that reflects your pottery business and is easy for customers to remember.
Design your online store: Use the tools provided by your chosen e-commerce platform to design your online store. Customize the layout, colors, and fonts to match your brand identity.
Add product listings: Create attractive product listings for your pottery. Include high-quality photos, detailed descriptions, and pricing information.
Set up payment and shipping options: Determine how you will accept payments from customers and set up secure payment gateways. Choose shipping methods and calculate shipping costs based on the size and weight of your pottery.
Market your online store: To attract customers to your online store, use various marketing strategies such as social media promotion, email marketing, and search engine optimization. Consider collaborating with influencers or offering discounts to attract new customers.
Provide excellent customer service: Respond promptly to customer inquiries and provide clear communication regarding order status, shipping updates, and return policies. Aim to provide a positive and memorable customer experience.

Remember to regularly update your online store with new pottery creations and engage with your customers to build a loyal customer base. Creating an online store for selling pottery can be a rewarding and profitable venture if done right.

Collaborating with Interior Designers and Decorators

Collaborating with interior designers and decorators can be a great way to expand your market and reach new customers. These professionals are often in need of unique and handcrafted pieces to enhance their clients’ spaces. By partnering with them, you can showcase your pottery in well-designed settings and gain exposure to a wider audience.

Benefits of Collaborating with Interior Designers and Decorators:

Increased Exposure: Interior designers and decorators have an extensive network of clients and followers who are interested in unique, high-quality home decor. By collaborating with them, you can tap into this network and gain exposure to potential customers.
Showcasing Your Work: When interior designers and decorators use your pottery in their projects, it gives your work a chance to be seen by a wider audience. This can lead to increased sales and brand recognition.
Professional Partnerships: Collaborating with professionals in the interior design industry can help elevate your brand and position your pottery as a high-end, luxury product. This can attract customers who value unique and well-designed pieces for their homes.
Custom Orders: Interior designers often have specific client requirements and may request custom-made pieces for their projects. This can provide you with new opportunities to create bespoke items and tailor your pottery to fit different design styles.

How to Collaborate with Interior Designers and Decorators:

Research: Identify local interior designers and decorators in your area who align with your style and aesthetic. Look for professionals who focus on handmade and artisanal products.
Reach out: Contact the designers and decorators through email or by attending industry events. Introduce yourself, share some images of your pottery, and express your interest in collaborating.
Showcase your work: Offer to provide samples or arrange a visit to your studio to let the professionals see and touch your pottery in person. This can help them get a better sense of your style and craftsmanship.
Collaborate on projects: Once you establish a partnership, work closely with the designers and decorators to understand their clients’ needs and create pieces that align with their vision. This may involve custom orders or creating specific collections for their projects.
Build long-term relationships: Nurture your collaboration by delivering exceptional pieces on time and maintaining clear communication throughout the process. This can lead to repeat collaborations and referrals from satisfied designers and decorators.

Collaborating with interior designers and decorators can be a mutually beneficial relationship. Not only will it provide you with new avenues to sell your pottery, but it can also help you refine your craft and expand your creative horizons.

Selling pottery through consignment shops

If you want to sell your pottery in a brick-and-mortar store but don’t want the hassle of running your own shop, consignment shops can be a great option. Consignment shops work by allowing artists and crafters to display and sell their work in the shop, while the shop takes a percentage of the sale price as commission.

Advantages of selling pottery through consignment shops:

Exposure: Consignment shops often have a steady stream of customers, providing you with more exposure for your pottery.
Ease of use: Consignment shops handle the logistics of selling your pottery, such as pricing, displays, and customer transactions, allowing you to focus on creating your art.
Local support: Consignment shops are usually located in local communities, which can help you build a strong local customer base and establish your brand.

Steps to sell pottery through consignment shops:

Research local consignment shops that specialize in handmade crafts or have a section for pottery. Look for shops with a good reputation and a diverse customer base that aligns with your target market.
Contact the shop owners or managers to inquire about their consignment policies and requirements. Each shop may have different terms, such as commission rates, minimum inventory levels, and display expectations.
Prepare your pottery for display. Ensure that your pieces are clean, well-packaged, and labeled with prices and your contact information.
Submit your pottery to the consignment shop for evaluation. Some shops may require you to provide samples or photographs of your work before they accept it for consignment.
If your pottery is accepted, work with the shop to set up a display that showcases your pieces in an attractive and accessible way.
Regularly check in with the shop to monitor your inventory, restock as needed, and coordinate any necessary updates to pricing or display arrangements.
Promote your pottery in the consignment shop by providing business cards or promotional materials for interested customers to take. You can also consider hosting a pottery demonstration or workshop in collaboration with the shop.
Monitor your sales and collect your share of the revenue from the consignment shop according to the agreed-upon schedule.

Points to consider:

Make sure to read and understand the consignment agreement before signing and submitting your pottery. Pay attention to details such as commission rates, payment terms, and liability for damaged or stolen items.
Regularly visit the consignment shop to assess the condition of your pottery and address any concerns or issues promptly.
Consider consigning your pottery in multiple shops to increase your reach and potential sales.
Update your inventory regularly to keep your offerings fresh and appealing to customers.

Selling pottery at farmer’s markets and local events

Selling your handmade pottery at farmer’s markets and local events can be a great way to connect with potential customers and sell your products directly. These types of venues can provide valuable opportunities to engage with customers, receive immediate feedback, and build a loyal customer base. Here are some tips for selling pottery at farmer’s markets and local events:

Research local farmer’s markets and events: Look for farmer’s markets and local events that attract a relevant audience and align with your pottery style and target market. Consider factors such as foot traffic, vendor fees, and the overall atmosphere of the event.
Apply for a vendor booth: Once you have identified suitable farmer’s markets and events, reach out to the organizers and apply for a vendor booth. Be prepared to provide information about your pottery, including photos, pricing, and any special requirements you may have.
Prepare your booth: Before the event, plan out your booth layout to make it inviting and eye-catching. Use displays, shelves, and signage to showcase your pottery. Consider creating a visually appealing arrangement that highlights different shapes, colors, and styles.
Bring a variety of pottery: Offer a diverse range of pottery products to cater to different customer preferences. Consider having different sizes, designs, and functionalities available for purchase. This will help attract a wider range of customers.
Offer demonstrations: Consider setting up a pottery wheel or work area where you can demonstrate your pottery-making process. This can be a great way to engage with customers, spark their interest, and showcase your skills and craftsmanship.
Provide product information: Display information about your pottery, such as the type of clay used, the firing technique, and any special features. This will help educate customers and create an appreciation for your craft.
Pricing: Determine fair and competitive pricing for your pottery. Take into account factors such as material costs, time spent creating each piece, and your skill level. Consider offering a range of price points to cater to different budgets.
Accept multiple payment options: Make it easy for customers to purchase your pottery by accepting various payment methods, such as cash, credit cards, or mobile payment apps. Consider using a secure and portable card reader if you accept card payments.
Engage with customers: Be friendly and approachable to potential customers. Answer their questions, provide additional information about your pottery, and offer suggestions based on their preferences. Building a personal connection can help turn one-time buyers into loyal customers.
Collect customer information: Consider offering a sign-up sheet or a digital option for customers to provide their contact information. This will allow you to follow up with them and inform them of future pottery releases or events.

Selling pottery at farmer’s markets and local events can be a rewarding experience. Remember to showcase your craft, engage with customers, and create a memorable shopping experience. With the right preparation and presentation, farmer’s markets and local events can become valuable selling platforms for your handmade pottery.

FAQ:

Where can I sell my handmade pottery online?

There are several online platforms where you can sell your handmade pottery, such as Etsy, eBay, and Amazon Handmade. These platforms provide a large audience of potential buyers and allow you to showcase and sell your pottery directly to customers.

Are there any specific websites that specialize in selling pottery?

Yes, there are websites that specifically cater to selling pottery. Some popular ones include Ceramic Arts Network, Artful Home, and Society6. These websites have a dedicated audience interested in purchasing pottery, making it a great place to showcase and sell your creations.

Can I sell my pottery at local craft fairs or art markets?

Absolutely! Local craft fairs and art markets are excellent venues to sell your handmade pottery. These events attract a diverse range of customers who appreciate and value unique, handcrafted items. It’s a great opportunity to engage with potential buyers, network with other artists, and showcase your pottery in person.

What should I consider when selling pottery online?

When selling pottery online, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, you should ensure your product photos are high-quality and accurately represent your pottery. Additionally, you should write detailed descriptions that highlight the unique features of your pottery and its potential uses. It’s also important to factor in shipping costs and choose a reliable shipping method to ensure your pottery arrives safely to customers.

How can I price my pottery?

Pricing pottery can be challenging, but there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, you should factor in the cost of materials used, including clay, glazes, and kiln firings. Additionally, you should account for the time and effort you put into creating each piece. It’s also worth researching similar pottery pieces on the market to get an idea of the price range. Ultimately, finding the right balance between covering your costs and appealing to buyers is key.

Is it possible to sell pottery through social media?

Yes, selling pottery through social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook can be a great way to reach a wider audience. You can create a dedicated business account, showcase your pottery through photos and videos, and interact with potential customers through comments and direct messages. It’s important to establish a cohesive branding and maintain an active presence to attract and engage with customers.

Can I sell my pottery at local shops or galleries?

Yes, many local shops and galleries are open to selling handmade pottery on consignment or through wholesale arrangements. It’s worth reaching out to local businesses that align with your pottery style and aesthetic to see if they would be interested in showcasing and selling your work. Keep in mind that the shop or gallery will take a commission or markup on the sales, so factor that into your pricing.

Best Places to Sell Pottery