Atelier Potterysa
Frequently asked questions
What people ask us most often about the pieces, their care and orders. Can’t find your answer? Write to us; Ysabel answers herself.
Can my pieces go in the dishwasher and the microwave?
Yes, unless the piece’s page says otherwise, on the “Care” line. To make them last, hand washing is always the gentlest. Avoid metal scouring pads, and load the dishwasher so the pieces don’t knock against each other.
What about the oven?
The pieces aren’t made for the oven unless their page says so. Stoneware handles heat well, but not sudden changes in temperature. Never put a piece on a stovetop burner or under the broiler.
Why doesn’t my piece look exactly like another one?
Because it’s made by hand, from start to finish. A drip of glaze, a slightly different thickness, a sheen the kiln decided on its own: that’s what makes it one of a kind. The photos on each page show the exact piece you’ll receive, not a sample.
I see tiny lines in the glaze. Is it a crack?
It’s most likely crazing, a web of very fine lines in the glassy layer of the glaze. It mostly comes from thermal shock, like going from the fridge to boiling water, and it doesn’t affect the strength of the piece. To avoid it, let a cold piece come back to room temperature before pouring something very hot into it.
What clay does Ysabel work with?
Stoneware, a clay fired at high temperature that becomes dense and strong, ideal for everyday dishes.
Are the measurements exact?
They’re approximate, within about a quarter of an inch, since every piece is shaped by hand. If an exact measurement matters to you, for a shelf or a pot saucer for example, write to us before buying.
Can I order a custom piece or a remake of one that sold?
For now, the shop only offers pieces that are already made. Since every piece is one of a kind, a piece that sold won’t come back exactly the same. If a shape or a colour caught your eye, write to us: there may be a cousin in an upcoming firing. The best way not to miss anything is the newsletter.
Can I put a piece on hold?
A piece is yours as soon as payment goes through. Until then, it stays available to everyone. If you’re torn, don’t wait too long: there’s only one.
When does my order ship?
Ysabel packs every order by hand and usually ships within 3 business days. You’ll get a Canada Post tracking number by email. Delivery then takes 2 to 7 business days depending on where you live. For a studio pickup, we’ll agree on a time by email.
Where is the pickup?
At the studio, in Cantley, in the Outaouais region of Quebec. The address comes with your order confirmation. In the Ottawa‑Gatineau area, we can also hand you your piece at a market or by appointment.
Do you ship outside Canada?
Not for now. The shop ships anywhere in Canada.
My piece arrived broken. What do I do?
Write to us within 7 days of delivery with a photo of the piece and a photo of the box, then keep everything until it’s settled. You then choose between a full refund, shipping included, or a similar piece if the studio has one. The details are on the Shipping and returns page.
Can I return a piece that no longer suits me?
Since every piece is one of a kind, all sales are final. Take your time with the photos and measurements, and write to us with any question at all before buying.
Is payment secure?
Yes. Payment is handled by Square, by card, Apple Pay or Google Pay. The studio never sees your card number.
It’s a gift. Can you wrap it?
Every piece is already packed with care. If it’s a gift, write to us after you order and we’ll tuck a little note from you into the box.
Where can I find you in person?
At markets in the region and in a few shops: upcoming dates are in the “Where to find me” section of the home page, on Instagram (@atelier_potterysa) and in the newsletter.
Still have a question? Write to Ysabel. Everything about receiving pieces and breakage is in Shipping and returns.