How Do You Work As A Potter?

Learning the Craft

Learning the craft of pottery requires dedication and practice. Many potters start by taking classes at local community colleges or recreation centers. These classes teach the fundamentals of working with clay, including centering, throwing, handbuilding techniques, glazing, and firing. While classes are a good introduction, it can take years to truly master the skills required. Here are some common ways potters develop their abilities over time:

Apprenticeships and mentorships allow emerging potters to learn directly from experienced masters. Working side-by-side in an experienced potter’s studio for months or years enables hands-on learning and feedback. According to one potter on Reddit, “It’s a very hard skill to learn and takes a lot of practice. I think it was a year of biweekly classes before I truly felt like I could center well and throw basic forms” [1]. An apprenticeship accelerates learning under the guidance of a mentor.

Formal training programs at colleges allow for intensive, multi-year study. Many potters earn BFA or MFA degrees specializing in ceramics. In these programs, students take workshops, studio classes, art history courses and more. The immersive, full-time environment with access to facilities and professors builds robust skills.

Self-teaching through books, videos, online tutorials and experimentation is also an option. While challenging, with enough practice on the wheel, studying glaze chemistry, and reading up on techniques, an independent potter can also gain expertise over time. Dedicated self-teaching through trial and error for multiple years allows skills to grow.

Creating Pieces

Choosing the right materials is an essential first step when creating pottery pieces. The type of clay can significantly impact the final product. Stoneware and porcelain clays are common choices for high-fire pottery as they can withstand hotter kiln temperatures without cracking. Earthenware clays are better for lower firing temperatures. The clay body composition affects factors like texture, color, and workability.

Glazes are also key for finishing and decorating pottery. Glazes come in various colors and textures. Similar to clay bodies, some glazes are formulated for high vs low firing temperatures. Glazes can create glossy or matte surfaces, along with unique crackle effects. Choosing complementary clay and glaze combinations helps achieve the desired final aesthetic.

Potters employ numerous techniques when forming their pieces. Two of the most common methods are throwing on a pottery wheel and handbuilding. Throwing involves centering clay on a rotating wheel and using hands to shape it into forms like bowls, vases, cups. This takes practice to control the spinning clay. Handbuilding relies on techniques like coiling rolls of clay, sculpting slabs of clay, or pressing molds. Handbuilding allows more freedom and custom shapes.

Other common pottery forming techniques include slip casting with plaster molds and press molds. Cutting or carving clay and assembling multiple thrown or handbuilt components are also options. Understanding how to work with clay enables potters to determine the best approach for their vision.

Design and Style

One of the most rewarding aspects of working as a potter is developing your own personal aesthetic and style. Rather than simply following trends, many potters focus on creating pieces that showcase their individual creativity and vision. According to the article Japanese Pottery: Types of Japanese Ceramics on the All Japan Tours website, there are numerous traditional pottery styles in Japan that potters have innovated over the centuries, including Arita ware, Bizen ware, and Shigaraki pottery.

When getting started, it can be helpful to learn about the most popular styles and trends in pottery. As covered in the pamphlet Pottery Book 1 from Troop 150 Minerva, some of the most well-known styles today include Raku, Sgraffito, Majolica, and Slipware. Potters can explore decorating techniques like carving, sculpting, and glazing to develop their own unique pieces. While keeping current with trends, many aim to establish an identifiable style and evolve their skills over time. By continuously creating new work and refining their approach, potters discover and express their personal sensibilities through their art.

Setting Up a Studio

One of the biggest investments of becoming a potter is setting up your studio space and acquiring the necessary equipment. The main pieces of equipment needed are a pottery wheel, a kiln, and various tools for sculpting and decorating.

A quality electric pottery wheel can range from $400-$1500 depending on size and features. Many potters recommend getting a wheel with at least a 1/2 hp motor for optimal power and smooth spinning. Popular beginner wheel models include the Brent C, Shimpo Aspire, and Speedball Artista (https://www.reddit.com/r/Pottery/comments/km1gxb/studio_setup_costs/).

Kilns are another major investment, with prices ranging from $1000-$5000 for a small to medium sized electric kiln. Key factors are the interior cubic feet, number of zones, and maximum temperature. Kilns allow you to bisque fire and glaze fire your work. Top brands are Skutt, Evenheat, and Olympic (https://wheelandclay.com/blog/costs-to-start-pottery/).

Beyond the wheel and kiln, you’ll need a variety of sculpting and decorating tools, a worktable, adequate ventilation, clay storage, and safety equipment like an apron and respirator mask. Altogether, expect to spend $2000-$5000 to outfit a fully functioning home studio (https://bayofclay.com/what-is-the-cost-of-setting-up-a-pottery-studio-at-home/).

Firing and Glazing

Firing is a crucial step in producing finished pottery pieces. There are several firing techniques potters can use, depending on factors like the desired visual effect, the type of clay used, and the glazes or finishes to be applied. Some common firing methods include:

– Oxidation firing – Exposing clay to oxygen during firing, producing vibrant colors. This is the most common technique.¹

– Reduction firing – Limiting oxygen at the peak temperature, resulting in earthy, muted tones. Used in Raku firing.²

– Electric kiln firing – Firing clay in an electric kiln, allowing control over temperature and heating speed.

– Pit/wood firing – Placing pottery in a firepit and fueling the fire with wood over many hours, producing natural effects.

Glazes and finishes are applied before the final firing to decorate and waterproof the clay. Glazes come in various colors and textures like glossy, matte, or crackled. Some finishing techniques include:

– Painting colored slips or underglazes directly on bisqueware clay.

– Dipping or pouring liquid glazes over pieces.

– Spraying glazes for an even coat.

– Using wax resist to create designs by blocking glaze in some areas.

– Applying mineral or metal oxide stains on the clay surface.

Experimenting with glazes and different firing methods allows potters to achieve diverse visual effects with their finished ceramic wares.

Business Considerations

Pricing work as a potter can be challenging. According to ZipRecruiter, the average hourly wage for potters in the US is $16.75/hour (ZipRecruiter). However, as a self-employed artist, you’ll need to factor in the costs of materials, studio expenses, etc. when pricing your finished pieces. Consider doing market research to see what similar potters charge for comparable work.

Marketing and selling your pottery is crucial for earning a steady income. You’ll need an online presence with a website, social media, and potentially an Etsy shop. Look for opportunities to sell at craft fairs, art shows, open studio events. Approach local galleries and gift shops about carrying your work on consignment. Get creative with marketing outreach and partnerships.

Maintaining careful records is key for tax purposes and evaluating the profitability of your pottery work. Track income, expenses, inventory, and orders using accounting software. Keep detailed receipts and invoices. Separate business and personal finances completely.

Exhibiting and Entering Shows

Potters have several options for exhibiting and selling their work, including local art shows and festivals, juried shows, and gallery representations.

Local art shows and festivals can be a great way for potters to gain exposure and sell their pieces directly to customers. These public events allow potters to showcase their latest creations, interact with attendees, and potentially find new collectors. Some popular shows for potters include craft fairs, art festivals, ceramics shows, and local craft markets. Setting up a booth and having examples of your work on display can help start conversations and sales. Be sure to have business cards, order forms, and packaging supplies on hand. Festivals like the Sausalito Art Festival and Evergreen Fine Arts Festival are popular for potters.

Submitting work to juried ceramic shows is another way to gain visibility. Jurors select pieces based on criteria like originality, technique, and overall aesthetic. Getting accepted provides validation and exposure. Top juried ceramics shows include NCECA, Strictly Functional Pottery National, and Ceramic Arts LA. Awards and prizes are often given. Potters should be familiar with each show’s guidelines, entry fees, and timelines.

Building relationships with art galleries provides another exhibition opportunity. Galleries display potters’ work, promote it to collectors, and handle sales for a commission percentage. Larger galleries may represent potters at high-profile art fairs. Research galleries with a ceramics focus when applying. Consistently producing new work is key for representation.

Online Presence

Having a strong online presence is crucial for potters in today’s digital world. Social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook allow potters to showcase their work, interact with potential customers, and drive sales. Many potters use Instagram as a visual portfolio, posting high-quality photos of finished pieces, works in progress, studio shots, etc. Engaging with followers through stories, reels, and captions helps build relationships and community. Facebook groups related to ceramics and pottery provide opportunities for networking and gaining exposure. Potters should optimize social profiles with relevant keywords and hashtags to improve search visibility.

An up-to-date website serves as the hub for any potter’s online presence. Sites like SquareSpace, Wix, and WordPress offer easy website builders to create a customized site to showcase work, bio, CV, etc. A website portfolio allows potters to display their best pieces in a more comprehensive, organized way. Integrating e-commerce tools like PayPal or Etsy makes selling directly from your site convenient. Blogging and newsletters foster ongoing connections with collectors while driving traffic back to the site.

Participating in online marketplaces and selling platforms expands a potter’s reach globally. Etsy, ArtFinder, and CustomMade are popular for selling handcrafted pottery. These sites handle listings, transactions, and promotion in exchange for fees and commissions. Potters must carefully price work to account for these cuts but gain access to broad new audiences.

Continuing Education

One of the most rewarding parts of working as a potter is having the opportunity to continually expand your knowledge and skills through various educational opportunities. Attending workshops, conferences, and classes allows potters to learn new techniques, find inspiration, and connect with the larger ceramic arts community.

Some of the top workshops for potters in the United States include the workshops at Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts, Baltimore Clayworks, and workshops at major ceramics conferences like the NCECA annual conference. These intensive, multi-day workshops allow potters to fully immerse themselves in learning from masters of the craft from around the world.

In addition to formal workshops, many potters continue their education by taking local community classes, visiting museums, attending ceramic arts lectures, and reading books and magazines devoted to the ceramic arts. Expanding one’s knowledge in this way allows potters to incorporate new ideas and techniques into their work over the course of their career.

Work-Life Balance

As with any creative profession, working as a potter requires finding a healthy balance between your art and your personal life. It can be easy to get consumed by your work, so it’s important to be intentional about managing your time and energy. Setting boundaries and realistic deadlines for yourself is key.

Burnout is a real risk when you pour your heart and soul into your creations. Be sure to pace yourself, take regular breaks, and make time for self-care. Don’t be afraid to say no to extra projects if you already have a full schedule. Your wellbeing should take priority over productivity.

Establishing consistent work routines can provide structure and discipline without leading to burnout. Decide what hours you want to dedicate to studio time each day or week and try to stick to that schedule. Allow flexibility for creative bursts of energy or dealing with distractions. Some potters find working in the morning or at night when it’s quiet helps them stay focused.

At the end of the day, balance is about listening to your mind, body and spirit. Pay attention to when you feel drained or inspired. Be patient with yourself on unproductive days. Sustainability in your craft requires taking care of your whole self, not just making pots.