Hi there, I’m Rachel.

I was first introduced to ceramics in 2013 as an art elective in college. If there are “natural” potters, I’m not one of them. I loved my time spent in the studio, but I never would have imagined I could pursue it as a lifestyle or livelihood.

Fast-forward to 2019 when one of my best friends from college visited me in Louisville. We had both taken that class and wanted to see how much we remembered, so off we went to a local studio. After that, I was hooked. Still unskilled and unambitious, but completely addicted and determined to improve.

In 2020, I got my potter’s wheel and fell in love with making pottery from home (mind you, I was still lugging tubs of fragile work back and forth to be fired in a kiln).

I think my story is similar to a lot of other potters. I didn’t want to stop making pottery, but I already had dozens of items around my home, I had given countless pieces to all of my close friends and family, and my garage shelves were getting full. Not to mention, pottery isn’t exactly an inexpensive hobby. So I thought, let me start trying to sell these, just to recover my costs and make space for more pieces.

In August of 2020, I made my first sale and I registered my business as Sailor Ceramics.

So what’s going on, now?

I’m a part-time potter and I make small-batch, handmade pottery out of my home studio in Shelbyville, Kentucky.

My pottery is minimal and functional, designed to inspire beauty in everyday routine. All of my pieces are made to be well loved and well used, not to sit on a shelf and collect dust.

I may be more skilled now than before, but I continue to be humbled by clay. Pottery offers endless possibilities for exploration and growth, and I'm grateful to be consumed by something so deeply fulfilling.

When people buy my pottery, they’re actually paying for my time in the studio. They’re creating a world where it’s possible for me to support myself and my family with pottery, instead of working just to pay bills and then getting home to what I love.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you. Thank you for your support.

FAQ

  • Yes, I do! Send me a message and I'll help guide you through the process.

    Before confirming your order, I'll provide you with a proposed timeline and cost. If your design is more complex and requires an approval/feedback process, I'll clarify how many revisions or prototypes will fit within your budget and timeline.

  • If sold online, mugs will have a maximum capacity listed in the description. If a mug says it's 12oz, that means it measures 12 fluid ounces to the rim. This is the most consistent way I can measure capacity for all cups. If you like 10oz of coffee with some room for creamer, I would recommend a 12oz or 14oz cup.

    If you see me at an event, just ask and I’ll be happy to advise on mug sizes.

  • Sailor Ceramics handmade pottery is microwave, dishwasher, and food-safe. All glazes used are lead and cadmium free.

    When baking, place your pottery (with food) in a cold oven and turn the heat on, bringing everything up to temperature at the same time. Do not preheat your oven before placing pottery in the oven.

    Avoid dramatic temperature changes to prevent damage and/or thermal shock.

    Never place pottery under the broiler, over a direct flame, or on the stovetop.

    The only other special care I recommend: be careful with mug handles. The handle is the most fragile part of the mugs, so I'd be hesitant to stack pieces or put them on an uneven surface where they could hit other dishes or fall over.

  • Yes, I do! Wholesale discounts can vary based on the product or total order amount. Please message me with any questions.
    I like to be intentional about where my pottery is sold in person, so I'd love to get to know you and your store!