Commissioning custom pottery means working directly with a maker to create a one-of-a-kind piece—but what you actually receive depends on what's negotiated upfront. Understanding what's included in a commission protects both you and the artist, and ensures your finished piece meets your expectations.
What's Included in a Basic Commission
When you commission a ceramic piece, the artist typically provides the finished, fired work itself. This includes hand-shaping the clay, applying any glazes or surface treatments, and completing all kiln firings (usually cone 6 or higher for functional ware). For most potters, this means you receive a single completed item ready to use or display.
The base price almost always covers the artist's labor, materials (clay, glazes, kiln firing costs), and packaging for safe delivery. Expect to pay anywhere from $80–$300+ for a functional piece like a mug or bowl, depending on size, complexity, and the maker's experience level. Large sculptural pieces or highly specialized commissions can easily exceed $1,000.
What's NOT Automatically Included
Shipping is rarely included in the initial quote. Most potters charge actual shipping costs separately, especially for fragile ceramics—a single mug might cost $12–$25 to ship, while a large platter could run $40–$60. Always confirm shipping terms before committing.
Design consultations are sometimes included as part of the process, but complex custom designs or multiple revision rounds may incur additional fees. A potter might offer one round of concept sketches at no extra cost, but requesting significant changes to the design after production begins often costs $25–$100 per revision.
Rush orders carry premiums. If you need a piece in 2–3 weeks instead of the standard 6–8 week timeline, expect to pay an extra 25–50% of the total cost.
What You Should Clarify Before Commissioning
Firing outcomes. Request a conversation about whether the artist guarantees the finished piece quality. Most potters stand behind their work, but ceramics can be unpredictable—glazes behave differently at various kiln temperatures, and the occasional piece cracks during firing. Ask if the artist will remake a piece if it fails, or refund you if it's unfixable.
Number of pieces. Always confirm whether your commission fee covers one piece or multiple. Some artists offer discounts for commissioning 4–6 matching bowls or mugs; others charge per item.
Customization options. Discuss exactly what can be customized: clay body color, glaze finish, size, functional details (handle shape, rim profile, foot), and decorative elements. Some potters work within their established styles; others are flexible within reason.
Progress photos. Many contemporary potters include progress updates as part of the commission experience. This isn't always guaranteed—ask if the artist will send photos of the work in progress, at the leather-hard stage, or just before final firing.
Payment structure. Standard practice is a 50% deposit to secure your spot in the production schedule, with the balance due before shipping. Some artists require full payment upfront for custom work; others use a three-payment model (deposit, milestone, final). Clarify cancellation policies—most require you to pay in full if you cancel after production has started.
Common Additions Worth Considering
- Gift wrapping or presentation packaging: $10–$30 (often worth it for special occasions)
- Custom wood or ceramic display base: $40–$150 (useful for sculptural pieces)
- Certificate of authenticity: usually included or $5–$15
- Set discount: commissioning 4+ pieces of the same design often earns 10–20% off the per-unit price
Finding and Comparing Potters
When evaluating ceramic makers, review their portfolio carefully for consistency and quality. Check whether previous clients mention communication, timeline adherence, and how the artist handled issues. Platforms like Mercoly help you compare trusted pottery makers in one place, making it easier to review their work, pricing, and past reviews before you commit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What happens if my commissioned piece breaks during shipping? A: Most potters either include insurance in the shipping cost or offer to remake the piece if damage occurs in transit. Always confirm the artist's damage policy upfront.
Q: Can I request a specific glaze color that matches my kitchen? A: Yes, but bring a physical sample or high-quality photo. Keep in mind glazes shift slightly during firing, so the artist may suggest a test piece first or warn you about color variation.
Q: How long does a typical pottery commission take? A: Most potters work with 6–8 week timelines, though production timelines vary. Busy makers may have longer lead times, especially during peak seasons (fall and winter).
Start your search for the right pottery maker today—clear communication about what's included prevents mismatched expectations and ensures you get the custom piece you're envisioning.