The Guide to Collecting Handmade Pottery: Where to Start and What to Look For
Hey there, fellow art aficionados! Spring and summer art markets are upon us. Are you ready to spice up your space and take your home decor game to the next level? Let’s dive headfirst into the wonderful world of handmade pottery!
First things first, why handmade pottery, you ask?
Well, let's face it, there's something magical about owning pieces that have been lovingly crafted by skilled local artists rather than churned out mostly by machines (even though I do find the factory process rather fascinating…). Plus, it's a great conversation starter for dinner parties – "Oh, this? It's a one-of-a-kind piece I picked up from a local pottery studio. You should check out her work.”
Now, onto the fun part – where to start and what to look for. Think of yourself as a pottery detective, on a mission to uncover hidden gems amidst a sea of mass produced items.
Wouldn’t these all look lovely by your coffee machine?
Here are a few tips to get you started:
Know Thyself: Before you embark on building your pottery collection, take a moment to reflect on your personal style. Are you a minimalist who loves clean lines and neutral tones, or are you more drawn to vibrant colors and whimsical shapes? If the latter, I invite you to check out my gallery! Knowing your aesthetic will make your handmade pottery acquisition journey a whole lot easier.
Local Love: Support your local artisans! Check out pottery studios, craft fairs, and arts festivals in your area. Not only will you find unique pieces that you won't see anywhere else, but you'll also be supporting your community – win-win! You can learn about where I sell my artwork in person on my Vendors/Events page.
Feel the Feels: When you're on the prowl for handmade pottery, don't be afraid to get tactile. Run your fingers over the surface, feel the texture, weight it, try out that handle for fit, and imagine how it would look sitting on your shelf or adorning your dining table. Trust your gut – if it speaks to you, snag it! If it’s a piece of pottery like any of my pieces, it’s likely the only one of it's kind!
Mix and Match: Don't feel like you have to stick to one style or theme. Mixing and matching different pottery pieces can add depth and personality to your collection. Who says your mug has to match your plate anyway? Embrace the eclectic! You should check out my kitchen cabinets…
Budget-Friendly Finds: Collecting handmade artisan pottery doesn't have to break the bank. If you are shopping handmade on a budget, keep an eye out for smaller pieces like mugs, bowls, and vases that are within your range. Plus, you'll have the satisfaction of slowly building your collection over time!
So there you have it, pottery lovers – your crash course in pottery-picking 101.
Remember, collecting handmade pottery is all about having fun, expressing yourself, and surrounding yourself with pieces that bring you joy! Those are the top 3 reasons why I make pieces, anyways.
How adorable does my flamingo bookshelf buddy look on this pottery lover’s art shelf?
