That’s Going to Break — Unless You Pack It Right

If you’ve ever opened a box to find your favorite ceramic piece in shards, we hate to say it… but it probably wasn’t the carrier’s fault. The good news? It doesn’t have to happen again. You’ve spent hours making or sourcing the perfect ceramic vase, only to have it arrive in pieces. We’ve been there—and nothing is more heartbreaking than hearing ceramic shards rattle inside a box, especially after you’ve poured your time, creativity, and money into making something beautiful. In this guide, we’ll walk you step-by-step through how to wrap and ship ceramics safely, using the right materials and techniques so your pottery arrives in perfect condition every time.

Ceramic mug on a bed of honeycomb wrapping paper inside a boxCeramic mug on a bed of honeycomb wrapping paper inside a box

Why We Prefer Honeycomb Paper Over Bubble Wrap

A lot of people automatically reach for bubble wrap when packing ceramics. It works, but it’s not always the best option—especially for small studios or makers who value sustainability and safety. Here’s why honeycomb wrapping paper is a smart alternative:
  • Eco-friendly and recyclable. No plastic, no waste guilt.
  • Space-saving. Rolls store easily without taking over your workspace.
  • Fire-safe. Unlike plastic bubble wrap, honeycomb paper won’t feed oxygen to a fire—a real concern if you have a kiln or electrical equipment nearby.
  • Easy to tear. No dispenser required; just rip and wrap.
  • Surface-safe. Doesn't leave marks behind or damage surfaces, unlike some bubble wraps that can stick or leave residue.
Pro Tip: Honeycomb wrapping paper from Packaging Supplies By Mail is available in large rolls and works with or without a dispenser. The paper expands as you stretch it, creating natural cushioning that keeps your ceramics secure and stable.

 

Step-by-Step: How to Wrap and Pack Ceramics for Shipping

Follow these steps to make sure your ceramics arrive in one piece, every time.

Step 1: Prepare Your Materials

You’ll need:

  • Honeycomb wrapping paper

  • Fragile tape

  • Packing tape

  • Tape gun (optional but helpful)

  • A sturdy cardboard box (or two)

  • Void fill (kraft paper or recycled paper works great!)

Step 2: Wrap Each Ceramic Item

  1. Unroll some of your honeycomb wrapping paper. You'll want enough to wrap around the piece at least 5 times.

  2. Place your ceramic piece near one edge and start rolling it up like a burrito.

  3. Stretch the paper slightly as you roll—it creates air space (similar to bubble wrap) and locks together to form a flexible cushion.

  4. If you can still feel hard ceramic edges after a few layers, keep wrapping.

  5. Secure the end with a strip of  packing tape.

You’re aiming for a snug, cushioned wrap that feels solid and compact.

Step 3: Prepare Your Box

Use a  cardboard box that allows for at least 2 inches of clearance on all sides of your piece.

Tape both the center seam and the two edge seams for extra durability—this small step makes a big difference in transit. You're going to pack the box to the brim, so if your one piece of tape fails, it's going to bust open. Cover all your seams, just to be safe.

Create a soft “bed” of crumpled honeycomb wrapping paper or void fill at the bottom of the box. This base layer helps absorb shocks from below.

Step 4: Place and Secure the Item

  • Set your wrapped ceramic diagonally in the box for maximum spacing.

  • Fill around all sides until the item doesn’t move when you gently shake the box.

  • Add your handwritten note or business card for a personal touch—your customers will appreciate it.

Step 5: Seal and Label

Close and tape the top securely, reinforcing every seam. Apply a fragile sticker on at least two sides of the box. While some people worry this draws rough handling, most delivery professionals do take extra care when they see these warnings.

Pro Tip: Pre-Printed "Fragile" Self Adhesive Gum Tape from Packaging Supplies By Mail is fiberglass reinforced, making it strong and durable enough to seal packages while also clearly marking contents as delicate.

Extra Tips for Shipping Ceramics Safely

  • Always perform a shake test—if you hear movement, add more fill.

  • For delicate or heavy items, consider double boxing (placing a smaller, packed box inside a larger one with cushioning in between).

  • Keep your packing process consistent for a clean, branded experience if you ship regularly.

Sustainable, Strong, and Simple

You don’t need fancy tools or layers of plastic to protect your ceramics. With recyclable honeycomb wrapping paper, strong fragile tape, and dependable packing tape, you can protect your work—and the environment—at the same time.

Need reliable packaging supplies? Explore our range of stretch wrap,  tapes,  and mailing envelopes designed for small business shipping.