How do I include kiln firings?

Estimate electricity per firing and divide across the pieces in that firing, then add it to other business cost. The calculator applies it per unit.

What wastage should I assume?

10% is a reasonable starting point for functional ware; raise it for complex glazes or new forms that fail more often.

Should I charge more for one-of-a-kind pieces?

Yes. Raise the labour rate for statement pieces where the design work justifies it, and the calculator recomputes the retail price.

Pottery and ceramics pricing calculator

A calculator tuned for potters. Clay is cheap; kiln fails, glaze tests and slow throwing time are not. Include them and see a price that survives a rough kiln load.

Step 1 of 4Product

Product

Product type

Product name

Country

Currency

Costs makers often forget

Clay by the kilogram, allocated across the batch
Glaze, underglaze and slip
Kiln electricity per firing
Kiln furniture wear and stilts
Bisque and glaze fail rate
Cracks, warping and glaze defects
Packaging suited to fragile ceramics

A simple worked example

A batch of 10 mugs

If 10 mugs use about 5 kg of clay and 2 firings, materials plus electricity might reach 25, with throwing and finishing at 4 hours. Add 10% wastage for kiln fails and the calculator returns a retail price that still holds after fees.

Illustrative only. Your numbers will differ.

Frequently asked questions

Marketplace fees change and may differ by account, country, advertising use and tax treatment. Confirm the fees that apply to you.