In a remarkable journey from passion to profit, Jono Pandolfi has transformed his pottery studio, Jono Pandolfi Designs, into a thriving business anticipated to generate over $6.6 million in 2024. Founded in 2004, the studio began as a side hustle for Pandolfi, who balanced teaching ceramics and working for larger manufacturers while pursuing his creative vision. His commitment to quality and craftsmanship has attracted high-profile clients and a dedicated consumer base, solidifying his company’s status in the ceramics industry.
The studio operates with a 30-person team and features 13 kilns, including a large gas kiln capable of firing around 500 dinner plates each night. This production capacity translates to approximately $18,000 in potential nightly revenue, demonstrating the scale of operations that Jono Pandolfi Designs has achieved. A significant portion of the studio’s success stems from its direct-to-consumer sales model, which accounted for nearly half of the company’s revenue. In 2023 alone, this strategy generated almost $5.2 million.
The turning point for Jono Pandolfi Designs came in 2012 when the NoMad Hotel placed a monumental order for over 6,000 pieces in a deal worth $100,000. This pivotal moment propelled Pandolfi to hire his first full-time employee and invest in more equipment to meet growing demand. Since then, the company has continued to expand, with revenue more than tripling since 2020.
Pandolfi’s products have gained traction not only among home chefs but also within the restaurant industry, being used in hundreds of establishments and featured in popular media such as FX’s TV series “The Bear.” The studio charges $51 for an 8-inch pasta bowl—crafted from approximately $1 worth of clay—reflecting the intricate labor involved in each piece.
To sustain growth, Pandolfi has taken out three loans ranging from $100,000 to $200,000 since 2016, enabling him to scale operations and enhance the studio’s capabilities. He emphasizes the importance of building a resilient company that can withstand the test of time.
“It’s always been incredibly important to me… from day one, has been to build this [company] in a bulletproof way, in a long lasting way,” – Jono Pandolfi
Despite the challenges inherent in the ceramics industry, Pandolfi acknowledges the rarity of achieving such financial success as an artist.
“I think it’s safe to say that it’s pretty hard for a ceramic artist or someone who studied clay to build a business that’s bringing in over $6 million per year,” – Jono Pandolfi
As Jono Pandolfi Designs continues to flourish, it stands as a testament to the power of perseverance and creativity in entrepreneurship. With an eye toward future growth and an unwavering commitment to quality, Pandolfi is not only living his dream but also inspiring others in the world of ceramics.
Featured image courtesy of Jono Pandolfi Designs
