Hey everyone,
This isn't really related to gardening, but I'd like some input from as many people as possible.
I've been doing pottery as a hobby for quite some time, and after filling my cupboards and all my friends' with bowls and mugs and plates, I'm wondering if I could think about selling my stuff.
Please note - this is not by any means an advertisement - I am not selling anything! And if I decide to, I will not use this forum.
I am just wondering if people would even like my stuff and if so what they would be willing to pay for it. It's not gallery style pottery - mainly practical dining bowls and mugs, and I don't know how to get information other than asking people...
I was wondering if any of you would take a look at these pictures and give me some feedback. If you ever saw these in a store (or something similar) would you ever think of buying them. And if so, what would you think is a reasonable price?
Or do any of you know any resources that would help give me some iformation on this?
I would appreciate any comments you have!
Thanks,
Mara
Pottery feedback
Wow! No kidding, those are beautiful! Great work!!!
Honey, I have no doubt you could sell these. You know, I would be very interested in serving dishes like this. Do you think folks could choose from several options for glaze color. Large platters like this in a navy blue color would be DEFINITELY something I'd invest in.
As for the plates and mugs....man, I'm not at all sure what to tell you for pricing. Considering they're handmade, I would think a decent amount more than your average storebought stuff. I tell you what, I'll tell you the top price for what I'd pay (as in, I wouldn't pay MORE). Let's see....plates, $10 each and mugs $8 each. I'd buy a higher quantity of each, though, if the price were a bit less :) Hope this helps!!!
P.S. I'd pay around $35 for a platter :)
That tall vase is great! Looks like some of the old ones that go for hundreds of dollars.
Did you ever try flower pots or planters. That green glaze would make some beautiful pots. Let me know if you ever make flower pots, I would be intterested.
Bernie
Thanks hugahosta and countrygardens. I am just starting to be able to do some larger things.. I have made a few flower pots, probably about 10" diameter. A few larger bowls, but I still can't throw really large casserole dishes... something I'm working towards.
Do you think it would work best to have something over the internet or to try to get a store to sell some? The glaze option is a good idea - maybe I can make a few sets with a choice of glaze options and then take orders or something like that.. so it's more custom made.
Anyways thanks for the feedback. I thought this forum might be a good place to get ideas, since I think gardeners typically are creative and like all sorts of things.
Thanks again,
Mara
Mara, your work is so beautiful. I don't know about pricing but I wonder if there are sites online and you could check out their pricing.
You could also make a set of whatever dishes and mugs and each one is a different glaze so you don't have to make several different sets and everyone could see your pieces and glazes.
Do you make anything like a covered sugar bowl? I've been looking for a covered salt container for kosher salt.
I wonder about trying on ebay. I am not sure how they would go but you could always put a reserve so you wouldn't be out in the cold on them.
I think Hugahosta gave you some good ideas. But only you know how much time and materials you have in them. Do they have lead in them, or are they safe to eat off of and drink out of?
They really are beautiful. You do very nice work.
Jeanette
You ought to consider putting them in juried art shows, too. Make some more pieces like the vase, some platters, some larger bowls. I've seen many things like this at art shows and your pieces look every bit as good as some I've seen. At some local artist's shops, I have purchased some smaller bowls for as little as $10, but I've seen them priced much higher also. Mugs start at $8 and go up to $20. Some of the larger bowls start at $40 and go up from there. I know you'll do great. You have a lot of talent. Let me know when you start selling. I want to be first (or at least second) in line.
Once you figure out your prices, you could try opening a member store here on DG. Your work is great you are quite talented.
Gemila
Another thing that is important to note for dinner dishes, etc., is whether or not they are microwave and/or dishwasher safe. I microwave all my mugs, and the ones that get really stinking hot and I have to use a potholder with just wind up in the back of the cupboard. So now I always check before I buy. :) I looooooooove that green glaze by the way...
Cool, you guys gave me some great ideas and I appreciate the compliments. I'll check out the member store. As of now everything I make is food safe (I have a degree in environmental health, so I have to stay away from the leaded/metallic glazes!) and can be microwaved or dishwashed. I don't know how hot the mugs get in the microwave - I should check it out.
Until I figure out my plan of action, I'm thinking that if anybody has something specific in mind, I could make it for a low cost (I'm renting space at a pottery studio and am looking to just break even)... If anyone has anything specific in mind, send me an email and maybe we can figure something out.
Again, thanks for the ideas! I'll keep you all posted on what I decide...
Mara
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