Frequently Asked Questions
Do you do commissions?
I am delighted to accept commissions from my standard ware line. If you are interested in ordering a set, I can create multiples of my designs in any color from my glaze palette.
Please note that I do not offer custom glazes, one-off pieces, items that deviate from my established style, or reproductions of other artists' work.
Custom design orders are considered on a case-by-case basis. I am open to collaborating with restaurants and interior designers on bespoke projects, which have a minimum value of approximately CAD $800.00. If you have a proposal, please email me at katemettenceramics@gmail.com, and I will provide you with further details.
Are you open to collaboration?
Yes, I am open to collaborations! In the past I have worked with artists, graphic designers, photographers, restaurants, cafes, interior designers, public art and architects. Please send an email to katemettenceramics@gmail.com and I will get back to you about shortly.
Do you do wholesale?
Yes, wholesale is a major part of our business model and I have a team of production assistants working with me in the studio to move orders along. Our turn around time is 6-8 weeks depending on quantity and time of season. I have a $900 minimum on wholesale orders and accept accounts on a case by case basis. Visit this link for more information about starting a wholesale partnership.
How do I care for your ceramics?
Thermal shock is the greatest risk to ceramics. Use extra caution when placing stoneware in the oven. It is recommended to preheat oven with the dish present, do not put a cold dish in a hot oven. Do not use on stove top or grill.
Over time glazes will develop a history; as they are used certain foods and oils can cause colours to shift. If your ceramics get marked by soft metal silverware you can hand was them using a good scrubber with bakingsoda, or scouring powder like “Barkeepers friend" to help remove marks.
Pots live and die in use. Don't be afraid to enjoy them.
Do you teach classes?
I am currently not offering classes.
Is this safe to eat on?
Yes our glazes have been tested for food safety. Some glazes, more often matte surfaces develop a history with time by taking on oils and spices through use, but this does not effect their food safety.
How is this made?
Most of my pieces are wheel thrown and some are made using a rolled-out slab of clay that is manipulated into different forms.
How long does it take?
Orders placed through my website are custom-made and have a turnaround time of 4 to 8 weeks.
The ceramics process involves several stages: a 1-week wet clay phase, a 24-hour bisque firing, a 2-day glazing session, and a final 24-hour glaze firing. Mastery of this craft takes a lifetime, and each step is essential to ensuring the quality and uniqueness of your piece.
Please be aware that due to the nature of the geological process, I am unable to expedite production beyond these timeframes. If you require an expedited order, a rush charge of up to 50% of the total order cost will apply. Thank you for your understanding and patience.
What is your shipping and exchange policy?
We ship domestic and internationally through Canada Post. All sales are final.
Where can I buy your work?
Book a studio visit to shop ceramics in person at 2111 Main Street, unit 129. Visit my online shop to place a standard-ware order. Our stock list also includes Simons Fabrique 1840, The Museum of Vancouver, Weinberg’s Good Food at Fannie Bay on Vancouver Island, Ahoy in Deep Cove and The Polygon Gallery in North Vancouver. Subscribe to my newsletter to hear about pop ups at a variety of seasonal markets.
More Questions?
If you have a question that wasn't answered here please reach out to me out email to katemettenceramics@gmail.com or through our contact page and we will get back to you as soon as we can.
Thank you
We would like to acknowledge that we are building our community on the traditional, ancestral and unceded territory of the Tsleil-Waututh (səl̓ilwətaɁɬ), Skwxwú7mesh, and Musqueam(xʷməθkʷəy̓əm) people, in this place commonly known as Vancouver, BC.