Home studio pottery maker

Market shoppers, online buyers, gift customers and people who like handmade homewares.

Selling finished pieces at markets, through your own online shop and on commission. Prices per piece depend on size, finish and how long it takes to make.

• Wheel throwing or hand building
• Glazing and firing knowledge
• Patience and attention to detail
• Photographing and describing your work

• Check with your local council whether you need approval to run a home-based business
• Check that your kiln's electrical needs and ventilation are safe, and use a licensed electrician for installation
• Public liability insurance, especially if you sell at markets
• Clay dust is harmful to breathe, so check safe dust control and wear a suitable mask
• Food-safe glazes: check that glazes used on mugs and plates are certified for food use
• Register for an ABN and check when GST registration applies

Startup costs are typically around $2,500 to $10,000, depending on your kiln, wheel, clay, glazes and insurance. These are estimates, so check kiln and installation quotes before you buy equipment.

Monthly revenue is typically around $400 to $3,000, depending on what you make, your prices and where you sell. These are estimates only. It typically takes at least about 10 hours a week.

Check council approval for a home-based business, and your kiln's electrical needs and ventilation, using a licensed electrician to install it. Check safe clay dust control, food-safe certification for glazes, public liability insurance for markets, and ABN and GST registration.