Frequently Asked Questions

Is your pottery safe for the microwave and dishwasher?

Yes, all Blue Nose Trading drinkware is both microwave and dishwasher safe unless otherwise specified. Because my stoneware is high-fired to full vitrification, it is durable enough for daily use.

A Note on Heat: Ceramic is a natural conductor of heat. If your beverage is boiling hot, the surface of the cup will become hot to the touch.

• Safety Warning: Any ceramic container without a handle is NOT recommended for use with beverages hotter than 120°F. For very hot coffee or tea, I recommend using one of my handled mugs for safety and comfort.

Are your bonsai pots and planters frost-safe?

Yes. My bonsai pots and planters are specifically engineered to be frost and freeze safe. Unlike common terracotta or low-fire earthenware, my vitrified stoneware does not absorb water. This prevents the expansion and cracking that typically occurs in freezing outdoor temperatures.

How do I deep-clean my sip-top travel cups?

For daily cleaning, these are dishwasher safe. For a deeper clean:

1. Soak the entire cup in hot, soapy water for one hour.

2. Use a standard water bottle brush to scrub the interior and the sip-top rim.

3. Rinse thoroughly and run through a sanitizing dishwasher cycle.

Check out this short video on how to clean a sip-top mug.

Is your pottery lead-free and non-toxic?

Every piece created is 100% lead-free and non-toxic. Lead is never used at any stage of my practice. In fact, lead-based glazes are rarely found in modern American artisan pottery because they pose a significant health risk to the ceramicist.

Did you know? You are actually more likely to encounter lead-based glazes in antique ceramics (pre-1970) or mass-produced dinnerware from overseas big-box retailers, where labeling laws vary. Choosing handmade American pottery is the safest way to ensure your dinnerware is non-toxic.

Why does my piece look slightly different than the photo?

I celebrate the "inherent humanity" of handmade craft. Every item is thrown by hand in my Texas home studio, not pumped out of a machine by an overseas drop-shipper.

• Organic Nature: You may notice slight variations in rim roundness, handle feel, or glaze flow.

• Unique Identity: These are not defects; they are the fingerprints of the maker and proof that your piece is a one-of-a-kind work of art.

Do you take custom or personalized orders?

Currently, I do not accept custom or personalized orders. To maintain the "raw and honest" flow of my studio practice, I focus on releasing new, unique collections. Please check my shop regularly or follow my YouTube vlogs to see the latest work coming out of my studio.

How do I know I am buying a genuine Blue Nose Trading original?

Authentic Blue Nose Trading pottery is sold exclusively at bluenosetrading.com, my Etsy shop, or in person.

* Beware of Scammers: Unfortunately, fraudulent "grifters" often steal my product photography to sell low-quality knock-offs on third-party site

• Irreplicable Quality: Because my glazes are unique, in-house formulations and my shapes are hand-thrown, my work cannot be replicated by machines. If you see my photos on an unfamiliar website, it is a scam. Please shop directly with me to ensure you receive a genuine, high-quality ceramic piece.

• Artist Signature: All of my work is stamped with my signature that is a registered trademark. (see trademark below)

Can I use your bonsai pots for other types of plants?

Absolutely. While bonsai pots are designed with the specific drainage and frost-resistance needs of bonsai trees in mind, they are excellent for succulents, cacti, or any plant that requires high-drainage soil and a durable, vitrified home.

What should I do if my pottery arrives damaged?

I take extreme care in my plastic-free packing process, but I know the journey to your home can be bumpy. If your piece arrives broken, please email me a photo of the damage and the packaging within 48 hours, and I will make it right with a refund or replacement (if possible).

Do you ship your pottery internationally?

Currently, I ship from my Shopify store within the United States. All orders are packed with our eco-friendly, plastic-free materials. For international orders, check out my Etsy shop.

Is Blue Nose Trading a registered business?

Yes, I am a locally owned and operated business in Texas, registered as Blue Nose Trading LLC.

How does my purchase help the environment and animal welfare?

Every Blue Nose Trading purchase directly supports our mission of "Pottery with a Purpose." I believe in a circular, ethical business model that gives back to the world around us:

• Supporting the SPCA of Texas: A dedicated portion of all profits is donated to animal welfare organizations, primarily the SPCA of Texas. Your support helps provide medical care, shelter, and rescue services for animals in need.

• Zero-Waste Clay Practice: We reclaim and recycle every scrap of clay in my Texas home studio. By re-processing all "trimming" waste, we ensure our production remains as close to zero-waste as possible. Check out this video of the process to reclaim and recycle clay.

• Plastic-Free Shipping: I do not use plastic bubble wrap or air pillows in my fulfillment process. Instead, I use 100% recyclable, honeycomb-structured paper and biodegradable materials to ensure your pottery arrives safely without polluting the planet. Check out this video to see how I package my pottery.

• Alternative to Single-Use: My handmade travel mugs are designed as a permanent, high-quality alternative to disposable paper cups, helping you reduce daily waste on your morning commute.