Sustainable Pottery: How I Ensure My Craft is Eco-Friendly

Confession #664: If you’re here, it means you're as much of a homebody as I am – or at least you appreciate the beauty of hand-crafted pieces that make a house feel like a home. There’s something about the simple joys of curling up with a cuppa, wrapped in the warmth of a home that’s filled with love and character.

But what if I told you that the pieces in your home – the ones that bring that cosy vibe – were made with love and with the planet in mind? Well, that’s exactly what I’m aiming for with my pottery, all from the comfort of my studio here in Murrumbateman, nestled in the stunning, quiet hills of rural NSW.

It might surprise you, but even in the world of pottery, sustainability is key. I’ve spent years creating one-of-a-kind pieces that not only speak to the soul but are also mindful of our fragile environment. If you're curious about how I make my craft eco-friendly, buckle up – I’ve got some stories to share with you.

Sourcing Eco-Friendly Materials: The Heart of It All

When you’re an artist, your tools are your life. For me, that means clay. But it also means choosing the right materials. I'm committed to working with local suppliers who provide sustainably sourced materials. Think of it as supporting local, just like I would a good neighbour. The clay I use is sourced as responsibly as possible, keeping in mind that we all need to do our bit for the planet.

I know it might sound a little... dull? But hear me out! This doesn’t mean sacrificing quality or beauty. It simply means I’m mindful of the impact I’m having – making choices that are kind to the earth. The result? Pottery that's not only functional and beautiful but also gentle on the environment.

Less Waste, More Love

I like to think of my craft as a love letter to the earth. From the moment I pick up that lump of clay to the moment it’s fired, I'm dedicated to minimising waste. Trimming pieces down to the finest details? Check. Leftover clay scraps? Absolutely – they get recycled and reformed into new pieces. I’m always looking for creative ways to use everything that comes through my hands.

And then there’s the glaze. Yes, that shiny, beautiful finish that makes each piece pop. I make sure to choose eco-friendly glazes that contain fewer harmful chemicals, because what’s the point of creating something beautiful if it’s not also safe for us and the planet? It’s all about balance, and trust me, I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Energy-Efficient Kilns: A Small Step for Man, a Big Step for Pottery

Kilns are the beating heart of the pottery world. But, like most things in life, they’re also a bit energy-hungry. In my little corner of the world, I’ve worked hard to make sure my kiln is as energy-efficient as possible. A little tweak here and there goes a long way. The kiln I use, affectionately named Fawkes, runs on minimal energy, and I’m always looking for new ways to improve. I’m also proud to say that I’ve got 31 solar panels on my roof, helping offset the energy Fawkes uses – and I’ve got plans to add a battery soon.

Water Harvest: Every Drop Counts

Living in the countryside has taught me to appreciate every drop of water. Our property runs entirely off the rainwater that we collect, which means that even on the driest days, I know I’m being mindful of our precious resources. And because my studio has no sink or taps, I store and recycle water in buckets and containers. It’s a little extra effort, but it’s all part of my commitment to ensuring my craft doesn’t drain the environment.

Reclaiming Clay: Every Scrap Has a Purpose

Waste not, want not – that’s my motto. I reclaim every single bit of scrap clay that comes my way. I’ve developed a 3-step bucket method that lets me recycle my clay in a way that’s efficient and sustainable. Each type of clay – red, white, and stoneware – has its own bucket system. I store scraps in their own buckets, process them into slip (clay in liquid form), and then dry them out to create fresh, usable clay. That means no scrap is left behind, and I’ve always got a fresh supply of material to work with when I’m throwing on the wheel.

Glaze Usage: Slower but Safer

Now, let’s talk about glaze. It’s that magical finish that makes each piece come to life, but I’m always conscious of the materials I use. I only apply brush-on glazes that are food-safe and free from harmful minerals like lead. While brush-on glazes take a little longer to apply than dip glazes, I believe they help me reduce waste in my studio. The slow approach might take a bit more patience, but it’s totally worth it – because every piece is as safe for you as it is for the environment.

Minimum Plastic Usage: Out with the Old, In with the New

Pottery often involves using plastic to control the drying process, but I’ve worked hard to find alternatives. Over the years, I’ve swapped plastic sheets for recycled fabric to cover my work and slow the drying process. Plus, I’ve introduced a seed-raising plastic greenhouse into the studio that acts as a ‘hot box’ to help with drying. Small changes like these make a big difference, and I’m always looking for new ways to reduce plastic in my studio.

Seconds Shop: Reducing Waste, One Pot at a Time

I’ve always believed in reducing waste, and my new Seconds Shop is part of that commitment. Whenever I release new pottery collections, you’ll find a selection of “seconds” available for purchase. These pieces might have minor imperfections, but they’re still beautifully functional. Offering these pieces for sale helps minimise wastage and gives you a chance to own a handmade piece at a reduced price. Win-win!

Eco-Friendly Packaging: Gentle on the Earth

Packaging can be tricky for a potter, but over the years, I’ve found ways to make it as eco-friendly as possible. I don’t use any plastic in my packaging (unless I’m reusing what’s been sent to me). I use biodegradable packing peanuts, water-activated paper tape, and cardboard cushioning to ensure your pottery arrives safely while being gentle on the environment.

Research and Development: Always Striving for Better

When I’m not throwing clay, you’ll often find me nose-deep in research, looking for new ways to improve my practices and continue my commitment to sustainability. Whether it’s learning about new eco-friendly materials or exploring energy-efficient methods for firing pottery, I’m always working to make sure Whistle & Page is a business I can be even prouder of.

Why Sustainable Pottery Matters

You might be wondering why sustainability matters in the world of pottery, of all things. Well, here’s the thing: every conscious choice I make has a ripple effect. From the clay to the glazes to the way I fire my pieces, each step is an opportunity to make an impact.

The great thing about handmade pottery is that it’s designed to last. Unlike mass-produced goods that might end up in landfill before you know it, a piece of pottery crafted with care – whether it’s a mug that holds your morning coffee or a dish that’s perfect for your favourite dessert – is meant to become part of your story. And in a world where we’re all looking for ways to be kinder to the earth, isn’t that the kind of thing we want in our homes?

So, the next time you’re holding a warm mug of tea in your hands or admiring a piece of art on your mantle, remember – it's not just pottery. It’s a little love letter to the earth, crafted with care in the heart of the Australian countryside.

Stay cosy, stay kind to the planet, and most importantly, stay you.

From my hands to your heart and home. Handmade slowly, intentionally, wholeheartedly.

Until next time,
Your friendly homebody (sustainable) potter from Murrumbateman.