How to Sell Pottery on eBay: A Complete Guide

If you're passionate about pottery or have a collection you’d like to turn into cash, eBay is a fantastic platform for reaching pottery enthusiasts.

Over the years, I’ve learned what makes certain pieces stand out and sell faster.

Here, I’ll walk you through everything I’ve discovered on how to sell pottery successfully, from photographing pieces to understanding what buyers want.

Getting Started with Selling Pottery on eBay

1. Understand the Value of Your Pottery

Before listing, it’s essential to know the value of the pieces you have.

Whether they’re handmade, vintage, or from renowned pottery brands, a bit of research can help you price them fairly.

• Research similar listings: Search eBay to find similar items and compare prices.

• Consider the brand and maker: Pieces from popular potters like Wedgwood, Moorcroft, or Clarice Cliff can attract higher bids.

• Assess condition: Pottery in mint condition will fetch a higher price than items with chips or cracks.

2. Create a Detailed Listing for Each Piece

A well-crafted listing can make or break your sale.

Focus on clear, concise descriptions that highlight your pottery’s unique features.

• Title: Include the type, brand, era, and condition (e.g., "Vintage Moorcroft Pottery Vase - Excellent Condition").

• Description: Provide a brief history of the piece if possible, list any markings, and mention the size and material.

• Keywords: Use terms like "vintage pottery," "ceramic vase," or "handmade pottery" to help buyers find your listing.

3. Take High-Quality Photos

Photos are crucial in online selling, especially with pottery, where buyers want to see every detail.

• Use good light: Natural lighting shows the true colours and reduces shadows.

• Photograph from multiple angles: Capture the front, back, sides, bottom, and any close-ups of unique features.

• Show any flaws: Buyers appreciate honesty, so show any chips or cracks.

4. Price Your Pottery Competitively

Setting the right price is key to selling successfully.

A competitive price will attract buyers without underselling your piece.

• Look at similar listings: Note what similar pieces are selling for and use that as a reference.

• Consider auction vs. Buy It Now: Auctions can create excitement and lead to a higher final sale price, while Buy It Now is ideal if you have a set price in mind.

• Factor in shipping costs: Pottery can be heavy, so consider this when setting prices to avoid losing profit on postage.

5. Shipping Pottery Safely

Shipping pottery requires care, as fragile pieces need extra protection to reach buyers intact.

• Use bubble wrap generously: Wrap each piece in bubble wrap to cushion it during transit.

• Double-box your items: Place the wrapped piece in one box, then place that box inside a larger one filled with crumpled up packing paper.

• Insure valuable items: For rare or expensive pottery, consider adding insurance to cover potential damage.

Tips to Increase Your Pottery Sales on eBay

Use Clear SEO Titles and Descriptions

Adding keywords to your titles and descriptions helps eBay show your listings to interested buyers.

• Include words like “vintage,” “handmade,” and the pottery style.

• Use phrases like “ceramic bowl” or “porcelain figurine” that buyers might search for.

Build a Reputation as a Reliable Seller

Positive reviews attract buyers.

Here’s how to earn them:

• Describe items accurately: Avoid exaggeration to prevent disappointment.

• Pack carefully: Safe shipping helps maintain your reputation.

• Communicate with buyers: Answer questions and provide updates.

Use Promoted Listings

If you’re finding it hard to stand out, consider using eBay’s promoted listings feature.

It’s a small investment, but it can boost visibility and attract more buyers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of pottery sell best on eBay?

Popular pottery items include vintage vases, figurines, plates, and handmade pottery.

High-demand pieces often come from well-known brands, are part of collectible series, or showcase unique designs.

How much can I expect to earn from selling pottery on eBay?

Prices vary greatly based on brand, condition, and rarity.

Some vintage pieces can fetch hundreds, while more common pottery may sell for around £20–£50.

Should I list pottery as an auction or Buy It Now?

It depends.

Auctions can create excitement for rare pieces, while Buy It Now is preferable for common items with a clear market price.

Final Thoughts

Selling pottery on eBay is rewarding and can be profitable if done right.

By following these steps, you can turn your pottery collection into a successful online business.

Good luck, and happy selling!