Orders

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  • All of our ceramics are crafted in our Hamburg atelier with meticulous attention to detail. Our collection includes a wide range – from bowls, cups, and plates to vases. These timeless treasures are available year-round. In addition, we also create limited editions, designed as one-of-a-kind pieces. And if you’re looking for something truly personal, we also take on custom commissions.

  • Simply browse our collection, choose the pieces you love, and add them to your cart. Once you’re ready, follow the checkout steps – your ceramics will soon be on their way to you, or waiting for you to pick them up at our Hamburg atelier.


  • No – you don’t need an account. All orders can be placed easily as a guest.


  • We currently accept PayPal as well as major credit cards: Visa, Mastercard, and American Express.


  • If your order hasn’t been shipped or picked up yet, we’ll do our best to adjust or cancel it for you. Please reach out to us as quickly as possible at hello@swawoleatelier.com.

  • Some of our designs return in small batches, while others may only be available once. The best way to stay up to date is by joining our newsletter – you’ll be the first to know about new releases and restocks.

  • Yes – for larger quantities please get in touch with us at hello@swawoleatelier.com so we can prepare a tailored offer for you. 


  • Yes – every item is carefully handcrafted in our atelier, with great attention to detail and craftsmanship.

  • For our collections, the photos are representative. Each item is handcrafted and one-of-a-kind, which means subtle variations in shape, glaze, or size may occur – these nuances are part of the charm of handmade work and what makes the pieces truly unique. For limited editions, the photo shows the exact piece you will receive.

  • Yes – you’re warmly invited to visit our Hamburg atelier during opening hours to purchase in person. We’d be delighted to welcome you in our beautiful space and help you choose your piece.

SHIPPING & RETURNS

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  • From our Hamburg atelier, we carefully ship our ceramics worldwide.

  • Within Germany, delivery by courier is €4. For international orders, shipping is calculated at checkout based on your location. If you’re nearby, you’re always welcome to choose free pickup from our Hamburg atelier.


  • If your country charges customs on import of our products, the whole costs will need to be paid by you upon receiving your shipping. Kindly please research the potential costs to avoid surprises.


  • We pack and ship our orders once a week. Orders within Germany usually arrive within 2-4 business days. International shipping times vary by destination. Once your package is shipped, you’ll receive a tracking link via email so you can follow its journey to you.


  • Each piece is wrapped with care using eco-friendly materials, so your ceramics arrive safely and beautifully.

  • At checkout, simply select “Store Pickup”. You can then collect your order from our Hamburg atelier during opening hours – we’ll be happy to welcome you in person.


  • We’ll send you an email notification as soon as your ceramics are ready for collection.


  • If something doesn’t feel right, you can return unused items within 14 days of delivery. Just contact us before sending anything back so we can guide you through the process.

  • Return shipping is usually the responsibility of the customer, unless your order arrived damaged or incorrect. If you’re in Hamburg, you’re always welcome to return your piece directly to our atelier free of charge.


  • We’re very sorry if that happens. Please contact us as soon as possible and include photos, so we can find the best solution together - whether that’s a replacement or a refund.


RENTAL

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  • Our rental collection includes a wide range of handmade ceramics – from plates and bowls to cups, platters, and vases. Perfect for weddings, private dinners, gallery openings, or press events. Each piece is crafted in our Hamburg atelier and brings a touch of elegance to your event.

    In the Rental section you’ll already find a selection of pieces pictured. And if you’re dreaming of something truly one-of-a-kind, we also offer custom designs – let’s talk about how we can bring your vision to life.


  • Rental is a thoughtful way to enjoy beautiful, handmade ceramics for a special occasion without the need to own a full collection. It’s sustainable, practical, and allows you to create a memorable atmosphere with pieces that bring artistry and individuality to your event.


  • Simply send us your request through the rental form, including event details and the ceramics you’re interested in. We’ll get back to you with availability, pricing, and next steps – making sure we support you in creating an event that feels just the way you imagined.


  • Yes – you can browse a selection of our rental range online, and you’re also welcome to schedule a visit to our Hamburg atelier to view the pieces in person.


  • Rental fees depend on the type and quantity of pieces, as well as the rental duration. Once you submit your request, we’ll prepare a tailored offer for you.


  • There’s no strict minimum, but rentals usually make the most sense for events with several guests. Just let us know your plans, and we’ll find the right setup for you.


  • We recommend sending your request as early as possible to ensure availability – especially during wedding and event season – and to make sure you get exactly the pieces you have in mind.


  • Rental duration is flexible and depends on your event. Just let us know your start and end dates when submitting your request – we’ll always find a solution that feels just right for you.


  • Yes – you’re welcome to collect your rental directly from our Hamburg atelier. Delivery to your event location may also be possible. Just let us know your preference when submitting your request.


  • Yes – we’re happy to help with setup and styling, making sure the ceramics are beautifully showcased and your occasion feels truly special.


  • You can simply bring the pieces back to our Hamburg atelier. If delivery was part of your rental agreement, we’ll happily arrange a pickup instead. The exact details will be clarified with you during the process.


  • No need to worry about cleaning – we’ll take care of the professional cleaning after your event, so you can simply enjoy the moment and leave the rest to us.


  • Accidents can happen – that’s why we’ve clearly outlined everything in a separate section of the rental agreement, so you’ll know exactly how it works. In case something gets broken, the replacement cost will apply – all details are described clearly in the agreement.


WORKSHOPS

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  • Yes! Our workshops take place at “Chamotte – The Pottery Collective”, our community pottery studio in Hamburg, just around the corner from Swawole. There, we offer a range of workshops, from beginner-friendly handbuilding to wheel throwing and unique artist-led classes. It’s the perfect place to start your pottery journey or to deepen your skills – and we can’t wait to welcome you.


  • Pottery is wonderfully diverse, with countless ways to shape clay. In our workshops, you can experience this variety – from the rhythm of the wheel to the freedom of hand-building.


  • Our regular program includes four formats:

    • Make 4 Cups – a slip casting workshop where you’ll create a set of four ceramic cups, experiencing the full process from clay to finished piece.

    • Kurinuki – a traditional Japanese hand-building technique, where you’ll craft a personalized set of three cups and a matching plate, tailored to your style.

    • Wheel Throwing – a hands-on session at the wheel, where you’ll create a unique set of ceramic pieces.

    • Make a Vase – exploring the art of hand-building larger and more intricate ceramic forms, as you design and create your dream vase or sculpture.

    From time to time, we also host one-off workshops with guest artists. You can always find the full and up-to-date program in the Workshops section on our website.


  • Not at all – our workshops are open to every level, from complete beginners to those who want to deepen their practice. Each workshop description also mentions the level it’s designed for, so you can easily find the right fit for you.


  • Simply choose your date in the Workshops section of our website and complete your booking online.


  • All materials, tools, and firings are included. You’ll also choose your glaze, and we’ll take care of the finishing process for you.


  • We like to keep it small and personal – usually 5–10 participants, so everyone gets enough space and attention, and we can create a warm and intimate atmosphere together.


  • Yes – we offer private sessions for birthdays, team events, or special occasions. Just reach out to us – we’d be delighted to plan something special with you.


  • Most workshops are held in English, but we’re happy to offer German on request for private groups.


  • All you need to bring is yourself in comfy, clay-friendly clothes and studio-appropriate shoes. We provide all the clay and tools you'll need to get creative, so just come prepared to have fun and get a little messy!


  • Yes – the pieces you create will be fired and glazed, ready to take home once they’re finished, so you can not only hold your own creations in your hands but also enjoy using them in your everyday life.


  • Ceramics take time. After the workshop, your pieces need to dry slowly and carefully before they’re fired in the kiln, glazed, and fired again. This process usually takes 4–6 weeks. We’ll notify you by email as soon as your creations are ready for pickup.


  • Yes – all pieces you create are fired in our kilns at 1240°C, which makes them food and dishwasher safe and perfectly suitable for everyday use. With a little care, you’ll be able to enjoy your creations for years to come.

  • Yes – our workshops make a beautiful gift. You can purchase a voucher online and let your loved ones choose a date themselves.