Frequently Asked Questions
Purchasing a gift - Can I add a gift note?
You can have the gift shipped directly to the recipients & we will be happy to include a note so they know it's from you. You can type in the shipping address at checkout and leave your note in the message box.
* Because your receipts are available electronically, we do not include them with your purchase.
What does Made to Order mean?
Made to order means that we start making your pottery after it is ordered and paid for. This usually takes 4-6 weeks for things like house numbers & utensil holders and 6-10 weeks for dinnerware, depending on the items and quantity you are ordering. Each product page lets you know the current production times. Contact us if you have any questions.
How long does shipping take?
Standard shipping for orders inside the contiguous U.S. will take 2-9 business days. International orders will usually take 3-5 weeks to arrive depending on the destination and customs processing.
Is the pottery food safe?
Yes all our pottery is food safe, lead and cadmium free.
Microwave, dishwasher, oven safe?
Yes! Our pottery is microwave safe, oven safe* (to 400°) and dishwasher safe. Hand washing is always recommended.
Please take care to avoid exposing the pottery to radical temperature changes, which can cause thermal shock and could make the piece crack or break. Example, avoid putting a cold dish into a hot pre-heated oven or a hot dish onto a cold surface or into the sink. We recommend setting hot pottery on a rack or onto potholders or pads when it’s pulled from the oven.
The red clay we use with the Aqua Mist glaze does get hot in the microwave due to the Iron content in the clay. They are safe to use in the microwave but it is recommended to use an oven mitt.
The white clay we use with our other glaze colors does get a little warm in the microwave.
The dishes retain heat very well. Coffee stays hot in handmade mugs a lot longer than store bought mugs.
*Due to the risk of thermal shock, it is recommended to gradually heat and cool the pottery with oven use.
To prevent your baking dish from breaking during baking, cover at least two-thirds of the surface area with food. It is recommended to preheat in the oven before baking. However do not preheat an empty dish in the oven, because this may cause the piece to crack or break. Hand washing and handling with care will extend the life of your ceramics.
➤ The bottom of the pottery is unglazed. They may scratch a high gloss or delicate surface, therefore it is recommended to use them with placemats or a tablecloth.
How will you ship my pottery?
For orders in the U.S. we ship via United States Postal Service by either First Class, Priority Mail, UPS or Fed-Ex Ground depending on size & weight.
We ship International orders via USPS First Class International Mail or Priority Mail, depending on size and weight.
How much does shipping cost?
It will depend on where you live, the weight, and size of the items you order. You can add the items to your cart and type in your address to see the cost of shipping before placing your order.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes! We will ship to almost every country around the world. *Please note: Orders shipped outside of the U.S. are subject to regular customs duties and fees levied by the destination country.
How is the pottery packaged?
Every item is carefully and thoughtfully packaged so it can arrive to you safely. Most small items are wrapped in an eco friendly wrapping and a pretty string.
➤ Getting your pottery safely delivered is our #1 priority! For larger items we package in boxes within boxes and add lots of padding. If there is any damage your item will be replaced.
➤ We try to use recycled materials as much as possible to reduce costs and to help the environment.
➤ We are more than happy to include a gift note with your package. Please let us know what you want your note to say in the message box at checkout.
Do you take Custom Orders?
Due to our volume of orders & time involved, We do not take custom orders.
Can I rush my order?
No, sorry. Due to the amount of orders we receive we don't accept rush orders.
Do you Wholesale?
No, sorry. We are pleased that your interest in Back Bay Pottery extends to wishing to sell our handmade items in your store. We are not accepting any more wholesale orders at this time