Commissioning custom pottery is an investment in handcrafted beauty, but without clear payment terms and a solid contract, you risk delays, misunderstandings, and wasted money. Whether you're ordering a set of dinnerware, a sculptural piece, or functional tableware, understanding payment structures and protective agreements will help you work confidently with artisans. Here's what you need to know before handing over your deposit.
Typical Payment Structures for Custom Pottery
Most pottery makers use a deposit-and-balance system rather than full upfront payment. The standard breakdown is:
- 50% deposit at order confirmation (secures your spot in the artist's production schedule)
- 50% balance upon completion or before shipping
Some makers adjust this split—especially for larger commissions. A $2,000+ sculptural piece might ask for 40% down and 60% on completion, while a smaller $300 mug order may request 75% upfront to justify kiln time. Always clarify this before committing. A few artisans request payment in full for custom work, particularly if the piece requires specialized materials or extensive hand-finishing.
Payment methods vary widely. Most accept bank transfers (ACH or wire), PayPal, Venmo, or credit cards through platforms like Stripe. Check what the artist offers—some potters still require checks or payment upon pickup to avoid transaction fees that eat into their margins.
What a Contract Should Cover
A written agreement protects both you and the maker. Don't skip this step, even for smaller orders. Your contract should specify:
Timeline and deadlines. Pottery isn't instant. A functional tableware set typically takes 4–12 weeks from deposit to delivery, depending on the artist's queue and kiln schedule. Get the expected completion date in writing. If the potter needs to hand-throw each piece, glaze it, and fire it multiple times, delays happen—but a contract keeps expectations realistic.
Design details and approval. Will you see sketches or mockups before production? For custom dinnerware, specify the number of place settings, glazes, decorative techniques, and any personalizations (like initials or patterns). Taking photos or screenshots of design references prevents "I thought it would look different" situations.
Cancellation and refund policy. Most potters don't refund deposits once production has begun. Some offer a grace period (7–14 days) for cancellation without penalty. If the artist is custom-mixing glazes or throwing pieces specifically for you, they shouldn't refund. But if you cancel before work starts, you deserve 50–75% back. Get this threshold in the contract.
Liability for damage or loss. Who's responsible if the kiln misfires and your pieces crack? A solid contract states that the potter will remake them at no cost, or refund your full payment. Shipping risks should also be addressed—does the artist insure packages, and what happens if your order arrives damaged?
Payment schedule and late fees. Beyond deposit and balance, will there be charges if you delay payment past a set date? Some potters add a small fee (3–5%) after 30 days overdue. Confirm this.
Red Flags and Smart Practices
Avoid makers who demand 100% upfront and have no online portfolio or reviews. Legitimate potters show previous work, have clear communication, and are happy to discuss timelines and payment terms.
Ask for references if you're commissioning a high-value piece ($1,000+). A brief email to a past customer—or checking Instagram reviews and comments—reveals whether the artist delivers on promises.
Use a platform like Mercoly, which helps you compare and find trusted pottery makers in one place, complete with verified customer feedback and transparent pricing.
Keep all communication (emails, messages, photos) in writing. Verbal agreements about design changes or timeline adjustments often fall apart. If the artist texts you a change, ask them to email it too.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What if the potter's work doesn't match my expectations when it arrives? A: Inspect the pieces immediately upon delivery against your contract's design specifications and approved samples. Most potters will remake pieces that deviate from agreed-upon details, but you forfeit this option if you accept payment and don't flag issues within 7–14 days.
Q: Can I request a partial refund if the pottery has minor flaws (like a glaze drip)? A: This depends on what's in your contract—some artists include minor, natural firing variations as part of handmade character, while others guarantee flaw-free work. Clarify this before production begins.
Q: How do I handle a dispute if the artist misses their deadline by months? A: A contract with a specific completion date is your recourse; you can request a refund or renegotiate the deadline in writing. Document all communication and consider mediation through your payment platform if needed.
Find a pottery maker you trust by comparing verified artisans, reviewing their contracts, and reading customer feedback on Mercoly.