Glass and ceramics makers, decorators and finishers Salary
Salary data from ONS ASHE. Some figures may be unavailable due to small sample sizes.
For glass and ceramics makers, decorators and finishers, £28,936 is the typical (median) pay. That is well below the UK full-time median of £39,039 — -26% versus the national average.
About this role
Glass and ceramics makers, decorators and finishers create, shape, decorate and finish glass and ceramic products including pottery, tableware, tiles, stained glass and blown glass. They use traditional craft techniques and modern manufacturing methods.
Key responsibilities
- Shaping glass or ceramics using blowing, moulding, throwing or casting techniques
- Decorating products using painting, glazing, printing or etching
- Operating kilns, furnaces and finishing equipment
- Inspecting finished products for quality and consistency
- Maintaining equipment and following safety procedures for hot work
Qualifications and entry routes
Traditional apprenticeship or college courses in ceramics, glass-making or craft disciplines. City & Guilds qualifications are available. Heritage craft training for specialist techniques (stained glass, hand-blown glass).
Career outlook
Manufacturing has declined but craft, art glass and heritage restoration sustain specialist demand. Studio pottery and artisan glass-making have niche markets.
Key skills
Common industries
- Ceramics manufacturing
- Glass manufacturing
- Art glass studios
- Stained glass restoration
- Brick and tile making
Data coverage
Salary Trend (2015-2025)
Glass and ceramics makers, decorators and finishers salary: common questions
How much do glass and ceramics makers, decorators and finishers earn in the UK?
Is £28,936 a good salary in the UK?
Have glass and ceramics makers, decorators and finishers salaries kept up with inflation?
Figures: ONS Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings, gross annual pay. UK full-time median £39,039 (2025).