How I Package Your Ceramics - Recycling is key

When you order one of my handmade ceramics, you’re not just buying an object,  you’re receiving something that has been in my hands many times. Making it, firing it and glazing it. Packaging is the very last step to make sure your piece arrives safely and quickly, ideally with as little environmental impact as possible.

Re‑using, Recycling and Reducing Waste

I am a packaging magpie, and will reuse and recycle almost everything that comes through my door: bubble wrap, cardboard, kraft paper, packing peanuts, even the odd bit of foam. If it can cushion a pot, it gets a second life.

• Reused bubble wrap protects the most delicate areas — rims, handles, …

• Recycled cardboard is used to separate pieces

• Brown paper will be used to fill gaps and stop movement inside the box as well as packaging peanuts.

It all means your parcel is both secure and sustainable. That does not mean everything is recycled, I don’t think it can be, but whatever I do buy, I look out for the more environmentally friendly options such as honeycomb packaging paper and cardboard.

Some wrapping materials

How I Make Sure Your Ceramics Arrive Safely

1. Every piece is individually wrapped in tissue paper and bubble wrap of honeycomb paper

2. I double‑box almost all items, especially baking dishes using strong cardboard

3. Once everything is wrapped, I pack the box tightly so nothing can shift. Movement is the enemy of ceramics in transit. If I can shake the box and hear nothing, it’s ready.

4. I use strong, reinforced boxes, tape all seams, add extra support where needed, and make sure the structure is solid.

5. I aim to send orders out as soon as possible, usually within a couple of days.

6. I label every parcel with a FRAGILE  sticker, although every parcel needs to withstand falling from ca 1 m hight unscathed, and I use either Royal Mail or Evry for shipping.

Materials used to make sure everything arrives safely

Why This Matters to Me

Making ceramics is not a fast process. In fact it taught me patience. Making, drying, firing, glazing and firing again takes weeks. Losing a piece in the post really hurts me because it is avoidable with good packaging. It’s the final act of stewardship before your pot becomes part of your home.

I also believe strongly in reducing waste wherever possible. It keeps perfectly good materials in circulation and reduces the environmental footprint of every order.

And most importantly: your pieces arrive safely. I’ve had wonderful feedback from customers who tell me their pots arrived beautifully wrapped and secure.