Custom orders - open
One of the best aspects of buying from small businesses and artists is the opportunity to become involved in the creation process and to own something made bespoke. This collaboration between the client (you) and the artist (me) can enable some very interesting creations and is very rewarding to both. You have an idea in mind and I make it happen for you in my artistic style.
Want a custom piece? A larger set of something you see in the shop? Or simply want a similar out of stock item? You’ve come to the right place. One-of-a-kind ceramics make ideal gifts for birthdays, weddings, engagements, anniversaries, new homes, to say thank you, or ‘just because’.
Some things to keep in mind:
- Come with an idea in mind. Include photographs and examples. The more you tell me about your vision and how you feel about the piece, the more I can infuse it into the work. The clearer your vision, the better. And feedback is highly encouraged throughout the process to ensure alignment with your vision.
- Most orders take around 2 months for completion depending on quantity, time of year and your position on our waiting list.
- For an idea of what an item will cost, I’ll provide you with a quote before starting the work. If it’s a complex design, expect the price to be higher than a regular item, as it takes me more time to make. Custom glazes and materials are also subject to an extra cost as well.
- Some glazes and clays may not be available atm but I’ll do my best to get you what you want.
- Any piece can include personalized engraved or stamped wording/ dates/ quotes/ initials, etc.
- For ceramics, each piece is unique. They are not molded, but made by hand. I can redo a piece I made in the past in some cases, but it will never be exactly the same.
- Pick-up at my home studio in East Van is preferred. However, shipping is available for all custom orders. Hand delivery outside of the Greater Vancouver Area is subject to a handling fee.
- Return & Exchange Policy: Please note that we do not offer refunds or exchanges on purchases. Items damaged during shipping must be reported to Mariana Ceramics within 48 hours of the delivery date for a refund to be issued. A photo of the damaged piece, along with the box and packaging with all labels visible is required to be sent to email (marianaceramics.co@gmail.com) or direct message. Refunds or exchanges of damaged items will be discussed on a case by case basis. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact us.
- Mishaps:
Glazes/underglazes colors can shift in color, such as a green turning to a brown. Underglaze can sometimes burn off in the firing process causing it to disappear almost completely.
Glazes can "run". Glaze is made up of different chemicals that melt during the firing, sometimes it can run into an undesirable area on the pot surface, off the pot and onto the kiln shelf. This can ruin the piece or cause some blemishes.
Glaze can “skip” meaning that the final application of a glaze may decide to not stick to a small section of the pot.
Glaze can bubble or create a different texture than originally expecting. I find this to be more common when using matte glazes.
Pottery can crack. Pots can get anywhere from a hairline crack to bigger cracks.
Pottery can explode in the kiln or causing the whole pot to go into pieces or just a section of the pot.
Pottery can warp. This is more common with large flat pottery such as plates or platters.
- The Process:
1. Fill out and send the commission form
2. I will reach out to give more info and discuss any further design details based off of your application
3. Sketch (if necessary) and quote will be created
4. Client final approval
5. Down payment is collected (if asked for)
6. Throwing/Hand-building: The initial form for your commission is made
7. Trimming/Refining: Excess clay is removed shaping and refining the thrown or hand-built form
8. Handles: Handles will be created and attached (if applicable)
9. Underglazing: adding colors, drawings, illustrations, carvings, sgraffito (if applicable)
10. Drying: Takes the longest time, sometimes even weeks
11. Bisque Firing: Once the work is dried out, it will go through the first of two firings in the kiln
12. Glazing: Vitrifying coat is applied and finished
13. Glaze firing: Second and final time the work will go through the kiln
14. Sanding: Smooth surface and remove any post-firing imperfection
15. Clean: I thoroughly wash my work after its done going through the process
16. Photograph: Photo shooting for portfolio, Instagram, website, marketing and personal record purposes
17. Pack and deliver/ship off to its new home
Fill out the form below to get started and I’ll be in touch providing more info. Let's discuss how we can create a piece truly special together, tailored just for you. We appreciate your understanding and thank you for supporting small business!
