About & FAQ
I'm Katy Petrisin, the maker behind Ware Ware. I make every piece by hand in my Raleigh, North Carolina studio. I didn't set out to become a full time artist but after a few casual pottery classes became enamored with the medium and haven't looked back since.
The name 'Ware Ware' came organically -- I wanted something playful that felt true to the work rather than my own name. I kept coming back to the phrase "homewares and tablewares," so I shortened it to Ware Ware.
Have a question that isn't answered here? Email me at katy@warewarestudio.com or send me a message.
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What kind of pottery do you make?
I make a mix of functional and decorative work. The functional pieces - bowls, mugs, spoon rests - are made to be used often and loved well. The decorative pieces are one-of-a-kind art and sculptures for your walls. I love how flexible clay is and how few rules it has, and whatever the function, my style leans modern with bits of whimsy and fun.
Are your pieces really one-of-a-kind?
Many of my pieces are one-of-a-kind, though I'm working to keep a larger stock of core favorites that are always available. If an item you love is sold out, I can often make something similar - just fill out my commission form.
What is your pottery made of?
I use mid-fire clay, finished with a limited palette of glazes.
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Where can I buy your pottery?
A few ways: shop online at warewarestudio.com (I ship across the US, or you can pick up locally), visit my Raleigh studio, stop by one of the stores that carry my work, or find me at craft markets and pop-ups around NC and the Southeast.
Can I visit your studio?
Yes! My studio is in Vintage Village at 9300 Durant Rd, Raleigh, NC 27614. I don't keep regular open hours, but I'm often there - just reach out and we'll set up a time for you to come by.
What markets will you be at?
My show schedule varies, but you can find me and my wares at craft markets and pop-ups around NC and the Southeast. Check my Events page for the current schedule.
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Do you ship, and where to?
Yes - I ship anywhere in the United States. A few large or very delicate items are marked pickup only on the site.
How much is shipping, and how fast?
Shipping is a flat rate - $7 for small items and $12 for medium/large items - with a small additional charge for each extra item. That covers all packing materials and the time to pack and ship your order. Orders typically ship the Wednesday after they're placed. If you need something quickly, email me at katy@warewarestudio.com and I'll see what I can do!
How do you pack pottery so it doesn't break?
Every piece is carefully wrapped and packed to travel safely. I use recycled packing materials whenever possible.
What happens if my piece arrives broken?
Even with careful packing, breakage occasionally happens. If a piece arrives damaged, email me a photo within five days of receiving it and we'll work out a replacement or refund.
Do you offer local pickup in Raleigh?
Yes! Select "Store Pickup" under Delivery Options at checkout. Studio pickup is free.
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Can I commission a custom piece?
Yes! If you have something in mind, fill out my commission form and I’ll be in touch.
How does the commission process work?
After you reach out, I make sure I have all the details - size, colors, shapes, timeline, and so on - so I have a good feel for what you're looking for. Then I put together a sketch or two and share it with you along with the price. We make revisions until we're both happy with the design. Once it's agreed upon, a 50% deposit is due and I get started. When your piece is ready, I'll reach out to coordinate pickup or shipping, and the balance is due then.
How long does a commission take?
Lead times are roughly 4-6 weeks, though it can vary with what else is going on in the studio. If timing is a concern, mention it in your inquiry and we'll see what we can work out.
Do you require a deposit?
Yes - 50% is due once the design is decided, and the balance is due at pickup or shipping.
Can you remake a piece that's sold out?
Usually! Every piece is one-of-a-kind, but I can generally make something similar. Fill out my commission form and we’ll talk it through.
Can I be notified when a sold-out piece comes back?
Some of my recurring pieces do come back around — join my mailing list to hear about restocks first. One-of-a-kind pieces usually don’t return, but I’m always happy to make something similar — just fill out my commission form.
Do you wholesale?
Sometimes! As a small studio, I keep the number of wholesale clients I work with limited. Reach out to katy@warewarestudio.com and we can discuss.
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Is your pottery food safe?
Yes!
Is it microwave and dishwasher safe?
Yes!
How do I care for my handmade pottery?
Gentle hands are always best, but these pieces are meant to be reached for daily. Ceramics don't like sudden temperature changes, so I'd avoid putting a piece directly into a hot oven.
Why do some pieces look a little different from the photos?
Because everything is handmade and one-of-a-kind, small variations in color, glaze, and size are completely normal - that's part of the charm of something handmade.
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Do you sell gift cards?
Yes - gift cards are available here.
Can you ship a gift directly to someone?
Yes - at checkout you can enter a shipping address that's different from your billing address. Reach out to me if you'd like me to include a gift note! (I don't offer gift wrapping.)
Do you make wedding, housewarming, or corporate gifts?
Yes! Handmade is a lovely way to celebrate any occasion. Reach out to me at katy@warewarestudio.com with the details and let me know what you're looking for.

