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Many makers struggle with the tension between creating work we love vs making work that we think will sell, especially when traditional academic instruction is often focused on concepts and what I call “Capital A Art” over the practical skills needed to make a living. What if the key isn't choosing between artistic integrity and commercial viability, but rather learning to work efficiently?

Olivia Avery's experience reveals how rigorous craftsmanship training—throwing 40-80 pots daily until she could self-evaluate and create consistent work—became the foundation that allows her to pursue intricate surface decoration while maintaining a viable business. Despite the unpredictability of markets where she might sell out of teapots one weekend and mugs the next, her willingness to price her labor-intensive, highly decorated functional work appropriately demonstrates how technical excellence and clear pricing boundaries can create space for both creative fulfillment and financial sustainability, even when it means accepting a smaller but more committed customer base.

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Whether you're trying to figure out your pricing, navigate the art fair circuit, get out of the art fair circuit, or just want support while you experiment with new creative directions, you'll find fellow makers who truly get it (and a ton of ever growing, practical educationl resources to support you along the way) inside of our Community. Learn more about the perks of membership and come join us by visiting: makersplaybook.com/community

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