.HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO MAKE A PIECE OF POTTERY?
I get this question a lot and it’s a hard question to answer. Pottery is a lengthy process. Timing and elements, such as weather and humidity can be unpredictable and they play a very important role in the process. Additionally, I work in batches and try and create 30-50 new pieces per shop update. I don’t like to make just one mug or bowl. I work in series so a story can be told through my work. Since collections are made in small batches there is a limited number in each design released.
Here is a little bit of insight into my process for creating a single mug. Larger pieces like serving bowls or pitchers take longer due to their size. Wedging clay- 3-5 minutes Throwing the mug body- 5-15 minutes First drying time- over night Trimming mug- 5-10 minutes Making a handle- 5 minutes Letting handle set up- 20 minutes Attaching handle - 20 minutes Creating a floral motif- 30-60 minutes, depends on the flower selected. Waxing handle and flowers- 5 minutes Piece dries for several days until bone dry. (Humidity affects the length of time needed). Bisque Firing- 48 hours Rising bisqueware-2-3 minutes Bisqueware drying time- 24 hours Glazing- 40-60 minutes based on the complexity of the piece. Let glaze dry completely 24 hours Glaze firing- 24 hours Photography- 15 minutes, this includes all angles, styled images and photo editing. Liquid measurement- 5 minutes Create shop listing-15 minutes Advertising- 10 minutes Packing order- 20 minutes, includes building boxes, wrapping the piece, writing thank you notes, weighing packaging, printing and shipping label.
Riverside pottery is built on creativity, love, and a lot of determination. I do it all, everything from the making, writing, teaching, marketing, shipping and so much more. Your purchase does not go unnoticed and I am grateful for each and every sale I make.