In the heart of every handmade ceramic piece lies the earth itself — clay. As artists and conscious creators, it’s our responsibility to consider the impact of our materials on the planet. Whether you're a studio potter, a weekend hobbyist, or a ceramic enthusiast, understanding the environmental implications of the clay you use is a powerful step toward more sustainable artistry.
In this post, we’ll explore what makes clay eco-friendly, how to source it responsibly, and what sustainable practices you can adopt in your ceramic journey.

Eco-friendly clay refers to clay that is either naturally sourced with minimal environmental impact, reclaimed and reused, or produced with a focus on reducing energy and resource consumption. While no clay is entirely impact-free, certain types and practices help lower the ecological footprint of ceramic production.

Key Features of Sustainable Clay:

• Locally sourced to reduce transport emissions
• Low-firing temperatures, which use less energy
• Reclaimed or recycled clay from trimmings or discarded work
• Minimal additives or chemicals during processing

Types of Clay and Their Environmental Impact

Each type of clay has different characteristics — and a different impact.
1. Earthenware

• Fires at low temperatures (1,800°F – 2,100°F)
• Pros: Energy efficient, abundant, and often locally sourced
• Cons: Not as durable as stoneware or porcelain which means it could break easier and end up in a landfill sooner

2. Stoneware

• Mid- to high-fire clay (2,100°F – 2,300°F)
• Pros: Strong and durable, good for functional ware
• Cons: Requires more energy to fire, so it uses more resources in the creation process.
  

I generally recommend to maximize the efficiency of each firing by ensuring the kiln is as full as possible. While it may take slightly more energy and more time to fire a large kiln load, it will still reduce the amount of energy per item in the kiln when divided out.

3. Porcelain

• High-fire clay (2,300°F and up)
• Pros: Smooth, white finish, fine detail
• Cons: High environmental cost due to mining and firing temps

How to Reclaim and Reuse Clay
One of the best ways to be sustainable is to reuse your clay scraps and trimmings.

Steps to Reclaim Clay:

1. Collect all your trimmings and dried-out pieces. Let the clay dry fully so that it absorbs water more evenly.
2. Soak the dried clay pieces in a bucket with water until they become a slip.
3. Pour the slip onto a plaster bat or reclaim surface to dry evenly. If you don't have plaster, I recommend pouring it on a flat and smooth piece of wood and leaving it to dry in the sun.
4. Wedge the dried clay back to a usable consistency once it begins stiffening up.

Reclaiming your clay reduces waste and keeps valuable material out of landfills. It's also a money-saver. I think of reclaim clay as free clay because it's scraps from pieces I've already made.

Sustainable Studio Practices

Being a conscious ceramicist goes beyond just the clay you choose. Here are a few ideas to green your studio habits:

Energy Use

• Fire full kilns only
• Use energy-efficient kilns or consider solar kilns for low-fire work. I've been interested in solar energy to fire kilns for a while, but I haven't been able to set that up yet. Jon The Potter on YouTube has a solar energy setup for his kiln, and it is admirable.

Water Conservation

• Use a water recycling system for washing tools. I recommend having a couple of buckets in the studio with clean water, dirty water, and extra clay scraps.
• Let solids settle in buckets before discarding water

Waste Management

• Recycle glaze waste where possible
• Compost or reuse packing materials - I keep all my newspaper and shipping materials from packages I receive

Where to Find Sustainable Clay

​Some clay suppliers now offer recycled or eco-conscious clay bodies. Look for:

• Local clay mines or distributors
• Art schools or studios with reclaim programs
• Suppliers that clearly state their sustainability practices

Pro tip: Ask your clay supplier where their materials are sourced and if they offer recycled options, if you aren't interested in recycling your own.

​
Sustainable ceramics is not about perfection — it’s about mindfulness. Every small step, from reusing clay to choosing energy-efficient firing methods, makes a difference. As artists, our impact is not only in what we create but in how we create it.
So next time you’re wedging a ball of clay or pulling a new piece from the kiln, know that you’re shaping more than ceramics — you’re shaping a better future.

Ready to go green in your studio?
Follow The Conscious Creator by Earth & Ember for more sustainable pottery tips, tutorials, and artisan features.

1. What is SEO, and Why Does It Matter for Creatives?
​SEO is how platforms like Google, Etsy, and Pinterest decide which products and pages show up when someone searches. If your listing is optimized with the right keywords, tags, and descriptions, it’s more likely to appear on page one—and that’s where the clicks happen.

I first learned of SEO when I started my own website. Inputting key words such as "pottery in Dallas" or "green tea cup" can help boost your item listing in search results.

Benefits of SEO for Creatives:​

• More organic (free) traffic to your shop or site
• Higher visibility for your work
• Increased sales and brand awareness
• Long-term growth without relying entirely on ads or social media

Think of SEO as the compass that helps your ideal customers find you.

4. Don’t Forget Your Images and Tags

Image SEO

• Rename image files before uploading (e.g., handmade-mug-speckled-glaze.jpg)
• Use high-quality, well-lit photos
• Add alt text when possible (especially on websites) for accessibility and SEO value
  
  
  

Tags (especially on Etsy or Shopify)

• Use all the available tag slots
• Include synonyms, product uses, styles, and occasions. Really dig deep into what customers could use your prouct for in all aspects, not just what you specifically made it for. Think of gifts, parties, bridal showers, mother's day gifts for mom, etc.
  
  
  

Example: For a ceramic planter, use tags like “succulent pot,” “wheel thrown planter,” “boho decor,” “terracotta look,” “housewarming gift”
​

​5. Make Your Website or Shop SEO-Friendly
​
Whether you use Shopify, Etsy, WordPress, or Squarespace, your shop should be easy to navigate and optimized for search engines.

Essentials:

• Clear navigation (Home, Shop, About, Contact)
• Fast loading times
• Mobile-friendly design
• Keyword-rich page titles and meta descriptions
• A blog (if possible) to support content-based SEO
  
  
  

Pro Tip: Include your target keywords in headings (H1, H2) and URLs where appropriate.

​6. Use Content to Drive Traffic

Start a Blog
A blog helps you rank for more keywords and builds trust with your audience.
Post ideas:

• “How I Make My Handmade Ceramics”
• “The Best Indoor Plants for Clay Planters”
• “Behind the Scenes: A Day in My Pottery Studio”
  
  

Include internal links to your products and use strong keywords in your post titles and meta descriptions.

Leverage Pinterest
Pinterest works like a visual search engine, and it’s gold for handmade sellers.

• Create pins for each product, blog post, and collection
• Use keyword-rich descriptions and titles
• Link back to your shop or blog

7. Build Backlinks and Boost Authority
​
Backlinks (when other websites link to yours) show search engines that your site is trustworthy.
​
Ways to Get Backlinks:

• Collaborate with bloggers or influencers
• Guest post on art or lifestyle blogs
• Submit your shop to handmade directories
• Be active in maker communities and forums
  
  
  

Even a few quality backlinks can improve your search rankings.​

8. Track Your SEO Progress
​
​You don’t need to guess what’s working—there are tools that show you.

Tools to Use:

• Google Analytics – Track visitor behavior and traffic sources
• Google Search Console – See what search terms are leading people to your site
• Etsy Shop Stats – Analyze views, traffic sources, and keyword performance
• Pinterest Analytics – Monitor pin performance and outbound clicks
  
  

Keep a journal or spreadsheet to track which changes lead to more traffic or sales.

1. Why Make Your Own Planters?
​There are countless reasons to start making your own planters:

• Creative Freedom: Customize the size, shape, texture, and color to match your style.
• Sustainability: Reduce waste by creating long-lasting, biodegradable planters.
• Cost-Effective: Save money on décor while building a collection that reflects you.
• Mindful Craft: Working with clay is therapeutic, grounding, and fulfilling.
  

Plus, handmade planters make thoughtful, heartfelt gifts!

2. Choosing Your Clay
Start by selecting the right clay based on your needs and available tools.
Air-Dry Clay

• Pros: No kiln required, perfect for beginners
• Cons: Not waterproof, not food-safe, can be more fragile
• Best For: Decorative planters, faux plants, or light use
• Sealant: Must be sealed with waterproof varnish or Mod Podge to prevent cracking from moisture
  
  

Kiln-Fired Clay (Earthenware or Stoneware)

• Pros: Durable, waterproof (when glazed), long-lasting
• Cons: Requires access to a kiln
• Best For: Functional indoor/outdoor planters
• Stoneware Tip: More resistant to weather changes if you're placing them outside
  
  
  

Choose based on your goals—display-only pieces or functional pots that will hold real soil and moisture.

Benefits of Sustainability in Handmade Business:

1. Reduced Environmental Impact
   Sourcing natural or recycled materials, minimizing waste, and avoiding toxic chemicals all contribute to a smaller ecological footprint. This helps preserve ecosystems and reduces pollution. Reusing things like packaging for shipping out orders can make a big difference on your wallet too! I typically collect pre-used bubble wrap, newspapers, and boxes from neighbors and friends to use for my shipping materials.
2. Stronger Brand Identity
   Conscious consumers are more likely to support brands that reflect their values. Sustainable practices build trust and emotional connection with your audience. Utilizing sustainable practices  can be an extra feature you can promote in your business too, so it's a win-win. (However, beware of greenwashing your products or business.)
3. Long-Term Cost Savings
   While sustainable materials can sometimes cost more upfront, reducing waste, reusing materials, and streamlining production often save money in the long run. Creating systems where you reuse materials over time will save money from needing to buy new items all the time. Especially if you are selling locally, you can introduce programs where customers bring back empty containers you can refill or promote takeback programs.
4. Positive Community Impact
   Local sourcing and ethical labor practices support other small businesses and empower communities, creating a ripple effect of good.
5. Creative Fulfillment
   Making with intention brings greater meaning to your work. Sustainability encourages innovation and deeper connection with your craft. You can also use this idea to promote in your business and gain deeper connections with your customers.

Practical Ways to Embrace Sustainability
Here are actionable steps for handmade artists and small brands to make their process more eco-friendly:

1. Ethical and Local Sourcing

• Choose materials that are organic, recycled, biodegradable, or locally sourced.
• Vet suppliers for fair labor practices and transparency.
• Support other small-scale or ethical businesses when buying raw materials.

2. Eco-Friendly Packaging

• Use recyclable or compostable packaging materials. A lot of seller use starch-based packing peanuts.
• Minimize plastic use wherever possible.
• Include care cards on seed paper or recycled cardstock.

3. Waste Reduction

• Reuse scraps and off-cuts for smaller items or sample pieces.
• Start a compost system for biodegradable waste.
• Donate unused materials or partner with local schools or artists.

4. Low-Impact Production

• Use natural dyes, non-toxic glazes, and water-based inks.
• Conserve water and energy wherever possible.
• Batch production to reduce energy waste and shipping frequency.

5. Product Longevity and Education

• Design items to last—not just physically, but stylistically. Classic forms and colors that will always be in style are longer lasting than fads and trends because consumers are less likely to get rid of them after a couple years.
• Educate customers on how to care for their handmade goods to increase product lifespan.
• Offer repair or refill services to reduce consumption.

The handmade industry holds a unique power to shape a better future—one that values people, the planet, and purpose over profit. By integrating sustainable practices into every step of your creative process, you don’t just make beautiful things—you make a difference.
Let’s continue to create consciously, support ethically, and inspire others to do the same. Because when we honor the earth in our art, we’re not just crafting goods--we're crafting change.

​Find the perfect match for your creative vision—whether you’re hand-building, wheel throwing, or sculpting.

​Introduction
When you begin a pottery project, one of the most important decisions you'll make is choosing the right type of clay. With so many options available—each with different textures, firing temperatures, and finishes—it can be overwhelming to know where to start. Whether you're a beginner experimenting with hand-building or a seasoned potter refining your techniques, understanding your clay options will ensure your pieces are not only beautiful but also functional and durable.

​1. Understand the Three Main Types of Clay Let’s start with the basics. There are three primary categories of clay used in pottery:
​​

Earthenware
​

• Firing Temperature: Low fire (1,820–2,100°F / 999–1,149°C)
• Color: Typically red, brown, or buff
• Texture: Smooth, but can feel more “gritty” than porcelain
• Uses: Great for decorative pieces, planters, or casual pottery
• Pros: Easy to work with, widely available, often cheaper
• Cons: Porous unless glazed, not as strong or durable, some forms (like terra cotta) can actually melt in the kiln if it fires too hot! - yes, this happened to me in school
  
  

Best for: Beginners, colorful glaze work, rustic pottery, and gardenware.

Stoneware

• Firing Temperature: Mid to high fire (2,100–2,300°F / 1,149–1,260°C)
• Color: Typically gray, buff, or brown
• Texture: Slightly coarse, but can be smooth depending on formulation
• Uses: Functional wares like mugs, bowls, plates
• Pros: Durable, water-tight (even without glaze), versatile
• Cons: Less fine detail than porcelain
  
  

Best for: Functional pottery, dinnerware, and long-lasting pieces.

2. Consider Your Pottery Method
​Different pottery techniques respond better to certain clay types.

Hand-building
For slab, coil, or pinch methods, opt for a clay with more grog or sand. This helps the clay hold its shape and reduces shrinkage. Earthenware or grogged stoneware are perfect for this.

Wheel Throwing
Look for clays with fine particles and a smooth consistency. Stoneware and porcelain are popular choices, though beginners often start with stoneware because it’s more forgiving on the wheel. I currently use stoneware in my practice, and it has more strength and "body" to it. Porcelain is a buttery soft and beautiful experience, but switching to it from stoneware is a very different and more delicate experience.

Slip Casting
If you’re using molds, you’ll need clay in liquid form (slip). Porcelain and stoneware both come in slip varieties, depending on your firing preference and aesthetic goals. I recently dove into slip casting, and it is a completely different but equally as rewarding experience.
​

3. Match Clay to the Final Use of the Piece 
​Think about what the piece will be used for. Not all clays are created equal when it comes to strength, water resistance, and durability.
​

• Planters: Earthenware or stoneware (don’t forget drainage holes and glaze to prevent seepage)
• Dinnerware: Stoneware or porcelain (must be food safe, dishwasher safe)
• Sculptures: Grogged clay for better support and less warping (typically stoneware)
• Outdoor Pieces: High-fire stoneware for frost resistance
  
  

Tip: Always check that your glaze is compatible with your clay body and intended use.
​

4. Understand Firing Temperatures and Shrinkage 
​Each clay body matures at a specific temperature. Firing a low-fire clay at high temperatures can cause it to melt or warp, while under-firing a high-fire clay can leave it weak and brittle.

• Low Fire (Cone 04-06): Earthenware
• Mid Fire (Cone 5-6): Most stoneware and some porcelain
• High Fire (Cone 9-10): Porcelain and select stoneware
  
  

Shrinkage also matters. Clays shrink between 5–15% from wet to fired. Account for this in your design—especially with lidded items or items that must fit together. While some clays have a standard shrinkage rate, it's best to test your shrinkage rate based on your clay and firing temperatures by either measuring pieces before and after firing or by making a shrinkage ruler.

5. Test and Experiment 
​Don’t feel pressured to find your forever clay right away. Most potters go through a phase of experimentation to discover what clay works best for their artistic goals and firing setup.
​
Tips for Testing:
​

• Buy small test batches from different suppliers.
• Create a series of test tiles and fire them with different glazes.
• Keep detailed notes on how each clay handles during throwing, drying, and firing.
• Ask other potters for their favorites based on similar projects or techniques.
  
  

Pro Tip: Keep a pottery journal! Record everything from clay brand, body, cone, glaze combos, firing schedule, and final results. You'll thank yourself later.
​

​Choose With Intention
​Choosing the right clay is part science, part art. By understanding the characteristics of different clay bodies, considering your skill level and tools, and thinking ahead to how your piece will be used, you’ll set yourself up for success.
​
Whether you're creating rustic planters, elegant porcelain dishes, or earthy mugs, there’s a clay that’s perfect for your vision. Don't be afraid to get your hands dirty and try new materials. Every project is a step toward finding your clay soulmate.

I officially established my pottery business, NEC Designs, in the mist of COVID in 2020. During this "special" time of lockdown, it only made sense that I establish my business online to ship my pieces across the country because selling  locally was no longer an option. In the years prior to establishing my online shop, I dilly dallied at local markets. I never considered NEC Designs as being a proper business until I launched my products online for all to see (and hopefully purchase!).

Before officially establishing my business, I had never sold anything online before. It was very foreign to me, but I knew other makers had figured it out, so I decided to take my extra time of being stuck at home and learn! I've personally sold my pieces on Etsy, Facebook, Instagram, and on my own website, and I've researched a few other platforms that I've decided not to use.

​If you're wondering what platform is best for you, I've shared my experiences and listed pros and cons below.

1. Etsy

Best for: Beginners and established makers alike. 

Pros:

• Huge audience actively looking for handmade goods. (Etsy is a household name)
• ​Easy to set up and manage.
• Tools for SEO, coupons, and reviews.
• Built-in trust with buyers.
• Don't have to build your own website.​

Cons:

• High competition.
• Fees: Listing fees + transaction and processing fees. (This was the biggest turn off for me)
• Less brand control compared to a personal website.
  
  

Perfect for you if: You want to test your product ideas with a built-in audience and don’t mind sharing space with other makers.

My Take: Etsy was the first platform I used for selling my work. I think it is good as the first step to selling, especially if you only have a few products and want to test the waters. I eventually drifted away because I did not like the seemingly high and confusing fees they charged. While I understand the fees help pay for the site, SEO, and familiarity of the name, I prefer keeping more of my profits for myself as the maker to reinvest into my business. I will say, I also tried Etsy before it was as big as it is now, but I still enjoy having my own website and online identity apart from Etsy.

3. Professional Website (Squarespace, Weebly, Wix)

Best for: Creatives who want a beautiful, minimalist storefront with built-in website tools.

Pros:

• Gorgeous, intuitive templates for artists.
• Combines website, e-commerce, and blog in one place.
• Easy drag-and-drop design.
• Includes basic email marketing and SEO tools.
  
  

Cons:

• Less e-commerce functionality than Shopify.
• Limited third-party apps.
  
  
  

Perfect for you if: You value design and want an all-in-one solution for showcasing your work and telling your story.

My Take: I love having my own website. While it does come with its own challenges and learning curve, I love the flexibility of creating my own site and selling structure. I currently use the Weebly website builder, which is now owned by Square. I have heard great things about Squarespace (different from Square), but it is quite a bit more expensive. If you are starting your own site, I would recommend trying out the free version and then upgrading. 

5. Faire (Wholesale Marketplace)

Best for: Scaling into wholesale with boutiques and small shops.

Pros:

• Connects you with retailers looking to stock artisan goods.
• Simplifies the wholesale process.
• Net 60 payments, risk-free for retailers.
  
  

Cons:

• You need to meet demand and supply volume.
• Takes a commission from orders.
  
  
  

Perfect for you if: You’re ready to grow your production and want to see your handmade items in shops across the country.

My Take: I personally haven't tried Faire, but it sounds like a great way to connect to wholesale opportunities!

Tips for Selling Handmade Products Successfully
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• Brand your story: Artisans who share their “why” stand out. Use your about page and product descriptions to tell your story. include photos of you, your studio, process, etc. to show the behind-the-scenes. Your goal is to show your customers why they should choose you over a big box store or another maker. What makes you stand out?
• Invest in photography: Beautiful photos are non-negotiable. Natural light, simple backgrounds, and close-ups are key. I have learned SO much about photography and what makes my products look good, and I am still by no means a professional photographer.
• Start with a few core products: Focus on quality over quantity. Build a capsule collection you can confidently market.
• Use social media to build community: Platforms like Instagram and Pinterest are visual discovery tools that can drive traffic. Use these platforms to drive customers to your site and product pages.​

Grow an email list: Start building a list from day one to stay connected with customers who love your work.
​

Bringing plants into your artisan studio isn't just about aesthetics—it's about nurturing a space that reflects your creativity, care, and connection to the natural world. Whether you're throwing pottery, painting, weaving, or journaling, the right greenery can ground and inspire you.

Which plant will you bring into your studio first? Let us know in the comments!

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Pottery is an ancient and deeply fulfilling craft that allows you to create functional and artistic pieces from clay. Whether you're drawn to the therapeutic nature of working with your hands or looking to start a creative side hustle, this beginner’s guide will help you get started with pottery.

Why Try Pottery?

Pottery is more than just shaping clay—it's a mindful, creative process that connects you with the earth. The sense of accomplishment from making your own mugs, bowls, and planters is unmatched. Plus, pottery can be a sustainable and eco-friendly craft when practiced with care. I come from a fine arts background, so I love that pottery allows me to express my creativity and artistry while being able to create something functional.

Basic Types of Pottery

Before you dive in, it's important to understand the different methods of working with clay:

• Hand-building – A great place for beginners, this technique involves shaping clay using just your hands and simple tools. This method is a low cost way to begin learning pottery at home with minimal tools and space required. There are some great pottery tool sets on Amazon that I have bought multiple times because the value for the variety of tools is great. This set from Amazon comes with a nice roll up case to keep your tools organized, especially if you are taking them with you to a studio.

 

• Wheel-throwing – My personal favorite, wheel throwing uses a pottery wheel to create symmetrical forms like bowls, cups, and mugs. It is a very fast-paced way to make a lot of uniform pieces at once. Wheel throwing is easier to start learning at a community studio, so you don't have to invest in a wheel. 

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• Slip-casting – Involves pouring liquid clay (slip) into molds for precise shapes. I have recently begun exploring the possibilities of slip casting, and it is a great alternative to throwing if you have back problems and can't hunch over a wheel for too long.

Essential Pottery Tools & Materials

To start your pottery journey, you’ll need a few key tools and materials:

1. Clay

Choosing the right clay is crucial for your projects:

Earthenware – Easy to work with, but more porous unless glazed.

Stoneware – A versatile and durable choice, great for functional pottery. Stoneware has a little more strength when hand-building compared to porcelain because of the "grog" content. Grog is ground up pottery (that has already been fired) and adds stability to the clay while decreasing the shrinkage rate when fired.

Porcelain – Delicate and refined but more challenging for beginners. It has a smooth and buttery texture and shrinks more than stoneware when fired.

2. Basic Tools

You don’t need a ton of equipment to get started:

• Clay cutter – A wire tool for slicing clay.
• Rolling pin or slab roller – To flatten clay for hand-building.
• Needle tool – For scoring and fine details.
• Wooden or rubber rib – Helps smooth surfaces.
• Sponge & water bowl – Keeps the clay moist while working.

​This set from Amazon has everything you need to get started.

3. Pottery Wheel

If you're interested in wheel-throwing, investing in a basic pottery wheel can help you create symmetrical pieces. If you want to try throwing at home, I would suggest finding a used wheel or buying a lower cost beginner's pottery wheel.

4. Kiln (or Alternative Firing Methods)

A kiln is needed to harden and finish your pottery, but community studios often offer firing services. I recommend finding a local studio or community college and ask them if they have firing services. keep in mind that some studios may want you to only buy and use clay from them if they are firing your work. I have had three kilns, all of which I have received for free or bought second hand. Definitely check out your neighborhood chats and Facebook communities for used kilns! New ones are very expensive, and you may not want to invest in one if you are a beginner.

Alternative methods like air-dry clay or oven-baked clay can be used for small projects without a kiln. These pieces typically are not food safe, but they can be used for decorative objects.


Step-by-Step Guide to Your First Pottery Project

1. Prepare Your Clay – Wedge the clay to remove air bubbles. Wedging looks similar to kneading 
2. Shape Your Piece – Use hand-building or wheel-throwing techniques.
3. Drying Time – Let your piece dry until it reaches a leather-hard stage.
4. Bisque Firing – If using a kiln, fire your piece at a low temperature.
5. Glazing – Apply glaze for a finished look and waterproofing.
6. Final Firing – Fire at a higher temperature to set the glaze.

Where to Buy Pottery Supplies

• Local art stores – Great for hands-on selection.
• Online retailers – Blick Art, The Ceramic Shop, Amazon. Sometimes these can be a bit more expensive and have a smaller variety of choices
• Community studios – Often sell supplies and provide kiln services.

Tips for Beginners

✔ Start small—focus on simple shapes like bowls and mugs.
✔ Be patient—pottery takes time to master, so enjoy the learning process.
✔ Join a class or community—getting guidance from experienced potters is invaluable (even if it is just from YouTube videos!).
✔ Experiment with textures and glazes—pottery is all about creativity!

Pottery is a rewarding and grounding craft that anyone can enjoy. With the right tools and a little practice, you’ll soon be creating beautiful, handmade pieces that reflect your creativity.

Are you excited to start your pottery journey? Let us know in the comments what your first project will be!


-Nat & Drew