FAQ

• What kind of clay do you use? Right now, I use Laguna bmix and fire to cone 6. It's a porcelain/stoneware mix. 
• Do you make everything by hand? I sure do! Most of my pieces are constructed from clay slabs rolled out with a slab roller. I've developed and use a series of templates. 
• What are the earring posts made out of? The posts are titanium (nickel and cadmium free) paired with stainless steel backings. I have sensitive ears, so I know how tricky it can be to find earrings that don't irritate! The hanging earrings are Argentium Silver.
• Why can't this go in the microwave? If it's marked "not microwave safe" it's because either: 1. gold luster is a metal and metal cannot go in a microwave; or 2. red clays with a high iron content might not fair well with microwaves because again, metal can't go in the microwave.
• Is this art functional? Absolutely! My work is meant to be used. I prefer sturdy, simple forms so it's less intimidating to actually use your one of a kind, handmade item.
• Where's your blue hair? I have a habit of changing my hair pretty often. Blue was definitely one most people remember! Right now my hair is all sorts of pinks and fuchsias. 
• How do I care for my handmade pottery? Handmade pots can withstand the same use and washing as factory made ceramics. If there's any luster, it's best to hand wash the pot; otherwise it will wear away. 
• Is the luster actually real gold? Yup! Luster is a liquid that contains 22 karat gold, which is what remains when fired for a third time after the glaze fire.
• How do you package your pots? For most items, I double box. The pot is wrapped in tissue paper and a small amount of bubble wrap, then placed in a double walled box. Then that box is placed in a larger box with eco friendly dissolvable packing peanuts. I also reuse a combination of shipping materials I receive in the mail if they are exceptionally clean. as ceramics are breakable, I take great care in how I package my work; I find  double boxing is the best protection for insuring a safe arrival to it's new home.
• Is this safe for the Dishwasher? If there is no gold or mother of pearl lusters, then yes. Anything with the shiny bits should be hand washed to preserve its luster.

Returns, Exchanges, ETC:

I gladly accept returns, exchanges, and/or cancellations. Please contact me within 7 days of delivery and ship items back within 14 days of delivery. Once I receive the item in it's original condition, total cost minus shipping will be refunded. For cancellations, they must be requested within 24 hours of purchase.
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The following items can't be returned or exchanged
Because of the nature of these items, unless they arrive damaged or defective, I can't accept returns for:

• Custom or personalized orders
• Digital downloads

Conditions of return:
Buyers are responsible for return shipping costs. If the item is not returned in its original condition, the buyer is responsible for any loss in value.

***International Buyers Please Note: The buyer is responsible for all customs, duties, and/or import taxes. Any delays caused by this is out of my control.

Commissions

Do I take on commissions?  
The Short answer: mostly. I happily accept commissions throughout most of the year as long as they're within my scope of ability and interest. If it's a past design I made, chances are pretty high that I'd be happy to make it again, as long as I have the materials needed.

What about something more custom?
If it's something super custom but you're comfortable with my style of work, then we can talk! If it's something I can't take on, I do have a few other potters to recommend depending on the project.

How long do they take?
Most commissions take between 4 to 6 weeks to make. This is due to the nature of ceramics; it takes me about 4 weeks to make enough work to fill the kiln. This also allows some wiggle room just incase something happens during the firing (ceramics can be cruel sometimes!). I try to keep up communication for each step of the way, between bisque firing, glaze firing, and luster firing if your commission has shiny bits. 

When will commissions open back up?
If I have them closed, it must mean I have lots of markets and shop updates planned. I like to give my commissioned work extra TLC so they'll open up once things have settled enough for me to take them on again. Best place to check is my instagram (@averiverastudio) or sign up for my newsletter at the bottom of my website.