#272 - Listener Q&A: Perfecting mystery boxes and kiln programs

Wheel Talk

In this episode, Ryan and Becca tackle a range of listener questions, offering valuable insights for potters with varied years of experience. They start by sharing their experience with mystery boxes—how many pieces to include, what types of pottery work well, and why they’re such a hit with customers. The discussion then shifts to kiln firing programs, where they weigh in on their preferred settings and how switching from default programs can elevate your work. A thoughtful question about the heat retention of glazed versus unglazed mugs sparks a conversation on the factors that influence functionality, from material to shape and thickness. To wrap up, they offer practical advice for managing inventory after shows and preparing for multi-day events, ensuring your booth and work stay in top shape.
Resources
https://www.mightysink.com/
https://manychat.com/
Etsy's Creativity Standards related to "mystery boxes"

Listener Questions
On this episode:
- I wondered if you could give more insight into mystery boxes. How many pieces do you put in them? What kinds of pieces? How much do you sell them for? And what’s the lure for the customer? I’m thinking of including a few in an upcoming show and wanted to see if you had any guidance. I know they’re a success for Ryan. Thank you as always for anything you can offer! @thepotterymason
- I was wondering if you guys have ever done an episode on kiln firing programs? I use the default on my L&L kiln (which I LOVE, btw), but I’m thinking of moving to a different one and would love to hear what you and Becca do. Cheers 🍻 @jelo.designs
- I had a customer email me a weird question about heat retention in my mugs. Basically, she used an unglazed mug at a hotel and liked the way it retained heat and asked if my glazed mug would be the same way. I asked a handful of potters and got a lot of eye rolling….because….realllllly??? And most expressed dismay at her drinking out of an unglazed pot. Anyway, I told her that I believe unglazed pottery has more even heat distribution, but I am not sure that affects retention. I also told her that the shape and thickness of the mug may also be a contributing factor. Any thoughts on this? Oh- then she emailed me back again and asked if I have ever tested the heat retention and how it compared to other mugs. Now, I am eye rolling! @selvageandbriar
- Do you have episodes on either of the following: 1. How to manage inventory after a show so it doesn’t take a week to open your online store back up? 2. I’m doing my first 2 day show. Do you have any suggestions? Do I leave everything out overnight? Pack up the pottery and displays and leave the tent? Etc. etc. etc. Thanks! @jelo.designs

Send us questions so we can answer anything you've been thinking about on a future episode. Send those through Instagram @wheeltalkpodcast or email us at [e-mail].
Sponsors
L&L Kilns - The durable kiln that potters trust to fire evenly & consistently. Find your L&L kiln at hotkilns.com
Smith Sharpe Refractory - Find out which Advancer Kiln Shelves are right for you at kilnshelf.com.
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1. #272 - Listener Q&A: Perfecting mystery boxes and kiln programs (00:00:00)

2. Listener Questions (00:41:55)