FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Are your pieces handmade?

Yes! Every piece at Thistledown Pottery is handmade in our studio. Because of this, slight variations in shape, size, and glaze are completely normal and part of what makes each piece unique.

How do I care for my pottery?

Most of our pieces are dishwasher safe, but we recommend hand washing to preserve the glaze and extend the life of your ceramics. Please visit our Care Instructions page for full details.

How is your pottery made?

Each one of our ceramics are carefully handcrafted by me in Bedfordshire, UK, in my home studio. The pots are thrown by hand in small batches, dried to leather hard stage, trimmed to perfection and then handles pulled and carefully attached as necessary. Once thoroughly dried, the pottery is kiln fired to over 1000 degrees Celsius and then left to cool, this process takes approximately 24hours to complete.  The pots are then glazed mostly using brush on glazes, depending on the design this can involve up to 8 individual coats to create the beautiful painterly effects. Finally, the ceramics go back in the kiln and are fired to 1180 degrees Celsius and are then gently cooled for 24 hours. Voila!    
This end-to-end process takes from 3 to 6 week depending on the time of year, the rain and cold extends drying time.

Do you offer custom or commission pieces?

We do take on custom orders when capacity allow. Please get in touch to discuss your requirements and we'll let you know what's possible. Please be aware making your custom order will take time to complete from scratch, especially if its a larger order.    

How long will it take for order to be despatched?  

The time needed to prepare your order for dispatch varies. Some products are held in stock and will be send to you within in a few days. However, if you have chosen an item which is out of stock or is a made to order piece it can take up to 4 weeks for us to make it especially for you. We do prioritise our website orders for a quicker dispatch time when at all possible . 

Custom or large orders may take longer to dispatch.   

Can I cancel my order?

You can cancel your order within 24 hours, unless the order has already been dispatched. Please get in touch to arrange your cancelation. 

How long will my order take to arrive?

As our pieces are handmade, please allow around 3 working days for dispatch. Delivery times will vary depending on your location.

What is your returns / exchanges policy?

We want you to love your purchase. Returns and exchanges are accepted within 7 days of receipt. Buyers are responsible for all postage costs incurred, if the item is not returned in its original condition, the buyer is responsible for any loss in value. Please get in touch to arrange a return or exchange.  

What should I do if my order arrives damaged, or does not arrive at all?

Sometimes this happens - I wish it didn't! We make every effort to pack your order carefully and securely but if you experience problems please get in touch to discuss, we always happy to help.  

What are your working hours? 

Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm - excluding UK Bank Holidays. 

All time estimates are calculated include working days only.  

Do you ship internationally?

Please contact us for international shipping enquiries.

If you have any further questions not listed above, please get in touch