Home studio potter selling tableware

Shoppers at craft fairs and farmers markets, online buyers, local gift shops and cafes, and people ordering custom sets for gifts or weddings.

Direct sales at retail prices through markets and an online shop, plus wholesale orders to shops at a lower price per piece, plus occasional custom orders.

• Wheel throwing or hand building
• Glazing and firing know-how
• Photographing and describing your work
• Patience and consistent quality

• Check your zoning, home occupation permit and HOA or lease rules before running a kiln at home
• A kiln needs proper ventilation, a safe electrical setup and distance from anything flammable; check with your electrician and local fire code
• Glazes and clay dust can be harmful; use a respirator and wet cleaning, and confirm tableware glazes are food safe
• Check with your state about sales tax registration and a local business license
• Product and general liability insurance, often required by markets and wholesale buyers

Startup costs are typically around $2,500 to $10,000, depending on your equipment and studio setup. A kiln needs proper ventilation and a safe electrical setup, so check with your electrician and local fire code.

Check your zoning, home occupation permit and HOA or lease rules before running a kiln at home. Also check sales tax registration and a local business license with your state, and confirm tableware glazes are food safe.

Monthly revenue is typically around $300 to $3,000, depending on where and how much you sell. Markets and wholesale buyers often ask for product and general liability insurance, so check what they require.