The Potter's Professional Handbook: A Guide to Defining, Identifying & Establishing Yourself in the Craft Community

This is the book I have been looking for. I'm building a clay studio and wanted advice and tips on how to set it up. This is the only book I've found that gives really in-depth information on these topics. He also covers other topics you would want to know if you're going to be a professional potter. Not only does he share some of his own horror stories (so you won't repeat them yourself!), but he also includes insets of the stories of other pro potters and their studios. Very helpful. He covers studio needs, selection, etc.; working with suppliers, vendors, contractors; equipment selection; and business practices, marketing and self-promotion (the hardest part of the business for me - and I think for most artists!). He also talks a bit about teaching and it's effect on your work (pro and con). The subtitle of the book says it all: "The complete guide to defining, identifying, and establishing yourself in the craft community".This book is a must have for any professional potter and will be found very helpful even to hobbiests.

This book is so comprehensive and has answered so many of my initial questions regarding the start of a pottery studio and business. Steve writes in a language the layman and advance potter can both understand. The chapters are coherently laid out with the pertinent topics such as vendors, supplies, electrical needs, studio set-up, equipment making and purchasing, space needs, floor plans; the list goes on and on for the whole book. The back of the book has many vendors, suppliers and web links for reference. Although the web pages of many have changed, it is a great start on connecting with the pottery world. I highly recommend this book.