Mastering the Art of Selling Handmade Pottery: 7 Essential Tips
Handmade pottery is a timeless craft that embodies artistic expression and functional design. It carries an undeniable charm that mass-produced items can't replicate. If you're a passionate potter or a skilled pottery artisan looking to turn your passion into profit, selling your creations can be a rewarding journey. However, the world of selling art is not without its challenges; it demands a strategic approach. In this blog post, we'll explore seven essential tips that can help you navigate the journey of selling your handmade pottery successfully. If the thought of the word sell makes you cringe, you are not alone. Many members of our studio feel the same way. They love creating, and would like to make money, but do not think of themselves as salespeople. Well, I am here to tell you, that to be successful in selling your art, you will probably have to take off your artist hat occasionally and put on the salesperson cap. As someone who has had a career in sales, it is not as painful as it seems. I once read “Action Cures Fear” in David J. Schwartz’s book, The Magic of Thinking Big, and developed it as my motto in business and in life. Read on to learn more and remember to think big when taking off on our pottery-selling journey.
Define Your Unique Style: Before embarking on your pottery-selling journey, it's crucial to establish a distinctive style that sets your creations apart from others. Simply copying something you saw on TikTok or Pinterest won’t cut it and can be considered a form of artistic plagiarism. Be original and spend time developing your personal brand identity. Whether you specialize in rustic, modern, minimalist, or intricate designs, a unique style will make your pottery easily recognizable and memorable to potential buyers. The foundation of a successful pottery business lies not just in your craftsmanship, but in the uniqueness of your pieces. Pottery can be rewarding, and the options are endless so have fun and take risks while defining your unique style and developing your brand identity.
Perfect Your Craft: Once you are comfortable with the style you have developed, the next step is perfecting your craft (but not too perfect of course because that’s what Target or Anthropologie are for). Quality, not necessarily perfection, is paramount when selling handmade pottery. Continuously hone your pottery-making skills to ensure that your pieces are not only visually appealing but also well-crafted and functional. Ensure quality and consistency in your glaze, which will require pushing your boundaries to continually improve. Your pottery pieces should reflect your unique style and attention to detail, setting them apart from others.
Build an Online Presence: In today's digital age, having a strong online presence is non-negotiable. Create a visually appealing website on Shopify or WordPress and an online store such as ETSY where customers can browse and purchase your pottery. Use high-quality images, detailed descriptions, and easy navigation to enhance the online shopping experience. Be sure to follow up on purchases and be diligent and timely with shipping the pieces after a purchase. Nothing can hurt you more than bad reviews, especially when you are getting started. Additionally, leverage social media platforms to showcase your work, interact with customers, and build a loyal following.
Leverage Social Media: Social media platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, YouTube Shorts, and of course, TikTok are powerful tools for promoting your pottery. Regularly share captivating images of your work, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of your creative process in the form of reels or short videos, and engage with your audience by responding to comments and messages. Have fun and again don’t be afraid to experiment. Your social media should also represent your unique style so push your boundaries and get out of your comfort zone. I cannot emphasize enough the power of social media. It may even pay off to invest in ads on these platforms, at least while you are establishing your presence and growing your following. Use micro-influencing to develop your social media presence by reaching out to micro-influencers (those with 1000-100,000 followers) who may be interested in collaborating. Social media can help you reach a broader audience and foster a loyal community of supporters.
Engage in Local Markets and Craft Fairs: Participating in local markets, craft fairs, and art exhibitions provides a fantastic opportunity to showcase your pottery in person. These events allow customers to touch, feel and appreciate the craftsmanship firsthand, allow you to connect with customers face-to-face, receive real-time feedback, and expand your network within the artisan community. Make sure to have eye-catching displays and informative materials to leave a lasting impression.
Price Strategically: Pricing your handmade pottery is probably the most challenging aspect of selling your pottery. Artists tend to undervalue themselves when it comes to selling their art. I am here to say do not get stuck in that limitless thinking. Consider factors such as the cost of materials, time invested, and perceived value of your creations. Research the market to understand pricing trends for similar items. Don't undervalue your work, but also be mindful of setting prices that align with your target audience's expectations.
Tell Your Story: Behind every piece of pottery, there's a story waiting to be told. Share your journey, inspiration, and the love you pour into each creation. Customers often connect on a deeper level when they understand the artist's passion and the history behind the pieces they're purchasing. Authentic storytelling creates a deeper connection between you and your customers, making your pottery more meaningful to them. Be vulnerable and courageous when sharing your story. You may even inspire them to embark on a pottery journey.
Selling handmade pottery is not just about transactions; it's about sharing your creative passion with the world. By defining your style, perfecting your craft, establishing an online presence, leveraging social media, engaging in local markets, pricing strategically, and sharing your story, you can build a successful pottery-selling business. Remember that patience and dedication are key as you work to establish your brand and connect with a community of pottery enthusiasts who appreciate the artistry and authenticity of your creations. Don’t forget to have fun and remember what brought you to pottery in the first place. Share your pottery story below.
