If you’re reading this, chances are you’re already thinking beyond the ordinary. Maybe you’ve ordered custom mugs or branded items before, something quick and cheap from one of the big-name printers. You’ve handed them out at your shop, at events, or to staff. And maybe you’ve noticed something: they’re forgettable.
That’s where we come in.
At Grey Fox Pottery, we create handmade stoneware mugs that people reach for day after day. These aren’t throwaways destined for the back of a cupboard. They’re well-made, classy, and built to last, just like the businesses and organizations we partner with.
If you’re considering a wholesale order with us, here’s a look at what you can expect and how to get started.
Why Handmade Mugs Are Worth the Investment
Branded merchandise is a smart way to build loyalty and grow awareness, but only if it’s something people want to keep. A handmade mug feels different from the moment it’s picked up. It has weight. Personality. Purpose. It reflects the kind of care and thought you put into your brand.
Our mugs are made from durable stoneware and finished with food-safe glazes. They’re microwave and dishwasher safe, and they’re made by real artists here in our Minneapolis studio, each one touched by skilled hands at every stage of the process.
When your logo or artwork is featured on a mug that looks and feels this good, your customers notice. It becomes part of their daily routine. It starts conversations. It gets used, not set aside.
What to Expect When You Work With Us
We try to make the process as straightforward and supportive as possible. You don’t need to be an expert in pottery to get started. That’s our job. Here’s how it works.
Step 1: Reach Out
Call Jack for a Quote!
Start by getting in touch. Whether you fill out our contact form or give us a call, we’ll take time to learn about what you need. We’ll talk through quantities, timelines, and answer any initial questions you have.
Step 2: Design Conversation
Next, we’ll help you choose the right mug for your project. You’ll decide on the shape, size, glaze color, and quantity. You can also customize:
- One or two medallions
- Decals
- Bottom stamp featuring your logo, event name, or other text
From there, you’ll send us your artwork or logo so we can move toward a design plan.
Step 3: Art Approval and Mockup
Once we receive your artwork, we’ll send a digital proof to confirm placement and details. When you approve the art, we can create a mockup. There may be a small fee for this step, but it gives you a clear idea of what the finished mug will look like before production begins. Plus, if you need help modifying your logo or artwork or need something created, we can help. Check out our process to understand how to may your clay medallion artwork pop!
Step 4: Production and Fulfillment
After you approve the artwork and quote, your mugs go into production. Each mug is thrown, glazed, fired, and finished by hand in our Minneapolis studio. Our lead times vary depending on the size of your order and the time of year. We always communicate clearly about timelines.
When your order is ready, we pack it carefully and ship it using our trusted carriers. We never upcharge for shipping. You pay exactly what we pay the delivery company.
What Sets Grey Fox Pottery Apart
We know there are plenty of places to order branded mugs. But here’s why customers choose us and keep coming back.
Transparent pricing. We don’t believe in hidden fees or unexpected costs. We’re upfront about everything, including artwork charges and shipping.
No inflated delivery costs. We charge you only what we’re charged. That’s it.
Big enough for large orders, small enough to care. Whether you need 1,000 mugs for a national rollout or 48 for a staff gift or your retail shelves, we’re ready.
Skilled artists, fair pay. Nearly everyone on our production team has formal training in ceramics or the arts. We’re proud to offer livable wages and benefits, which helps us attract and retain the kind of talent your project deserves.
Trusted by people like you. We work with breweries, coffee shops, museums, visitor centers, gift shops, bed and breakfasts, military units, and more. Our mugs have been used in national parks and neighborhood cafes alike.
When you partner with Grey Fox Pottery, you’re not buying mass-produced merchandise. You’re investing in something made with care by people who care. And that shows in the final product.
What Our Customers Say
I searched far and wide for a company who could achieve precision and detail in a ceramic stamp, in a handmade mug. Jack and his team did an incredible job and their customer service is outstanding. We loved these so much we placed a second order! – Alison F., Alison Fullerton Art/US Special Operations Command
We loved the mugs! They are absolutely beautiful and our guests have been loving them. – Jenna F., The White Birch Inn
hese mugs turned out amazing once again. Thank you very much! – Chris S., The Brewerie at Union Station
The steins arrived today, and they are perfect! Thank you for bringing my vision to life. I can’t wait to give these away as gifts at our convention. – Jamie Y., Washington State Association of the UA
Ready to Get Started?
Whether you already have a design in mind or just want to talk through your options, we’re here to help. Reach out to start the conversation, request a quote, or browse examples of our work.
Let’s create something your customers will actually want to keep.