Last weekend, I had the pleasure of showcasing some of my latest work at the Community Center Pottery Sale. Prior to the event, I took some time to think about how I would like to set up my table to make my items look the most presentable. I have learned that it is really important to have a plan for your ceramic display and to test that display at home. Here are a few tips that I learned for displaying pottery at festivals.

• Choose the Right Tablecloth

  I feel it is important to choose a tablecloth with neutral colors like beige, gray, or white because it complements my work without competing with it. I want the various colors of my glazes to pop and stand out. I would also recommend avoiding shiny fabrics and instead purchasing a cotton or linen tablecloth for a more natural, professional look.

• Creating Height with Risers and Cubes

  I learned this trick from many potters who have used risers so that items can easily be seen while maximizing space. For this event, I used wicker boxes to display my larger items on top and showcase my small luxury items inside the boxes. I also chose to use lighting inside the boxes to highlight the pottery and make sure each piece stands out.

• Arranging My Pottery Thoughtfully When arranging my pottery, I made sure there was enough space between each piece. I grouped similar items together, like my flutter bowls in one section and platters in another, so customers could easily see what they were looking for.

• Balancing the Display

  Balance doesn’t always mean symmetry, but I like to create a sense of harmony. I use the cubes and risers to vary height and placement, making sure no area feels too crowded or empty. It’s okay to avoid overcrowding the table. It’s also okay not to have everything displayed, and you can always add items throughout the event.

In conclusion, by carefully selecting my tablecloth, using risers, arranging my pottery thoughtfully, and highlighting key pieces, I created a display that I was proud of and that showcased my pottery.