- Salary statistics
- Potter
Potter
30 400 - 30 900 kr / month
Hantverksyrken
Salary progression Potter
What does a potter do? – Tasks and work environment
A potter creates functional ceramics and art objects from clay by wheel-throwing, shaping, and glazing either by hand or with the help of simpler machines. The profession often involves working in a personal workshop or as part of a small team, handling the entire process from raw material to finished product. A typical workday includes preparing clay, wheel-throwing, drying, firing in a kiln, as well as glazing and decorating. The work environment is characterized by creativity, craftsmanship, and a combination of physical and artistic tasks. Some potters also work with sales, exhibitions, or conduct classes and workshops.
Salary development over time
The salary for potters has fluctuated over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 34,382 SEK per month, increasing slightly the following year to 34 662. However, in 2024, the average salary has decreased to 30 900, which is about an 11% decline compared to the previous year. This downturn may reflect increased competition, changes in customer base, or more individuals working part-time or freelancing within the craft. The market for handmade ceramics is also influenced by trends in interior design and consumption, leading to fluctuations in demand and salary levels. Overall, the development indicates that potters may need to adapt to a changing job market where economic conditions can shift quickly.
Potter salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 30 900 SEK/month
- Lowest/Highest salary: No available statistics
- Hourly wage: 186 SEK/hour
- Gender differences: Specific salary data for men and women are unavailable
- Regional differences: No reliable statistics available
Education and qualifications
To become a potter, a combination of formal craft education and practical experience is typically required. Many start with basic craft training at the high school level, followed by further studies at a folk high school, vocational college, or art school specializing in ceramics. Practical skills and apprenticeships are central, as the profession relies on manual dexterity and artistic development. There are no formal certification requirements, but additional training and specialization can improve job prospects.
- High school education: Craft program with a focus on ceramics
- Post-secondary education: Folk high school, vocational college, or art school (1–3 years)
- Practical experience: Apprenticeships or internships are recommended
- Courses and workshops: Ongoing skill development in techniques and design
- Self-study: Common for developing personal style and methods
Many potters combine their craft with artistic expression and regularly participate in exhibitions or collaborations with other creative professionals. This can expand both networks and work opportunities.
Common benefits and compensations
Typical benefits for potters often include flexible working hours, access to personal workshops, and creative freedom in daily work. Other benefits may include shared studio space, subsidized materials, and opportunities for further training through courses and cultural support. Some employment arrangements also include occupational pension schemes and insurance, but this varies depending on the employment form.
Competition and challenges
The competition within pottery is relatively high, especially among self-employed and freelance artisans who need to build their customer base. Challenges include reaching a market where industrial production often drives prices down. Success requires resilience and business acumen, as many consumers seek unique products but are also price-conscious. Digital presence and self-marketing skills are increasingly important as sales shift from physical stores to online channels. Another challenge is staying updated on techniques and trends to remain relevant and attractive as a professional.
Tips for aspiring potters
To succeed as a potter, patience and a strong desire to continually develop your craft are essential. Creativity and curiosity help in finding your own style and creating unique products that stand out. Precision is crucial, as work often demands accuracy from wheel-throwing to glazing. Good business sense is also valuable for building a sustainable operation, especially if working independently. Being social and open facilitates networking and collaborations with other artisans or galleries. Lastly, resilience and the ability to manage fluctuating demand are key, as the profession can be both physically and financially demanding.
Key facts about Potters
- Education level: High school or post-secondary education in craft
- Work environment: Personal workshop or small studio
- Common employment form: Self-employed or project-based employment
- Demand: 341 job openings in 2024
- Special skills: Wheel-throwing, glazing, and design
Career paths and outlook
After three to five years in the profession, many potters establish themselves as entrepreneurs with their own workshop or move into roles such as course instructors, mentors, or artistic project leaders within the cultural sector. Some choose to specialize in areas like sculptural ceramics or designing functional ware for restaurants and interior design companies. According to employment forecasts, the outlook remains stable with continued demand for unique craft products and opportunities for niche careers. Digitalization and increased awareness of sustainability may also create new opportunities for expansion and innovation within the profession.
Frequently asked questions about Potters
- What is the average salary of a potter?
- An average monthly salary is 30 900. - What education is required to become a potter?
- High school education with a craft focus and further studies at a folk high school or art school are recommended. - What does the future look like for potters?
- Demand remains stable with 341 job openings in 2024. - What does a potter do in their daily work?
- Manufacturing, glazing, firing, and selling ceramic products. - Is it possible to work as a self-employed person?
- Yes, many potters run their own businesses or combine freelance work. - How does the economic situation affect the salary of potters?
- Salaries can vary depending on demand, economic conditions, and personal sales.
Salary distributed by age and sector
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 30400 kr | 30900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 30400 kr | 30900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 30400 kr | 30900 kr |
About the data
All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.
All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.
Profession Potter has the SSYK code 7319, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.
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