Frequently Asked Questions
Do you ship internationally?
Yes! But! The online store is very bad at calculating shipping costs correctly, and they typically undercharge. If the difference is greater than $5, I will send you an invoice for the remaining amount. If the amount is too great and becomes a deal-breaker for you, just let me know. International shipping is famously a pain, but I try to make it as smooth as possible for both of us.
Can this go in the dishwasher/microwave?
Yes! Any functional pottery, including flute mugs, are safe to use in the dishwasher and microwave. Even if the flute mug handle fills with water, it will drain and will not damage the piece. That being said, hand washing is always gentler on pottery and can help it have a longer life! It might also help to avoid getting food particles in the handle. Just give that handle a good rinse with clean water. In over ten years of making and using these mugs, it has never been an issue.
Does water volume/heat change the pitch of a flute mug?
No! The handle, which functions as the flute, is closed off from the mug. The mug itself and the liquid inside does not affect the sound of the handle.
Are the sound objects/flute mugs tuned to a specific key?
No. Each piece is made by hand, so each varies slightly in pitch. Generally each flute mug has a similar pitch and pitch intervals. Each is individually tested before it is offered for sale. Each piece has an accompanying video so you can hear it before you buy it!
Why is there something rattling around in there?
You may hear or see small pieces hanging out in your flute handle or other flute objects. Sometimes, when I pierce holes in the clay, that clay goes into the handle or flute object, and sometimes it doesn’t come out! If it does come out, that is totally okay. It is also totally okay to have an object that also happens to be a rattle. We love multi-functionality.
Do you host any workshops?
I will have pdf guides for making various types of flutes available soon!
I also plan to hold a virtual flute-making workshop through my website in the future. Sign up for emails if you would like updates!
Playing tips?
Pretend you are drinking through a straw, then exhale gently with your lips on the mouthpiece. Often I find that people want to blow too forcefully. You may also need to adjust your tongue position. The most successful tongue position is usually with the tip against the back of your bottom teeth. It sounds weird, I know! This is easy for people who have played wind instruments, and might take some practice for people who have not.
Once you’ve made a sound, start with all of the holes covered, and lift them up one at a time, from bottom to top on flute handles. The handle essentially changes length depending on how many of the holes you have covered. I am working on a couple of instructional videos and should have those posted soon.
Playing any instrument takes some practice, and you will be so good at it in just a little while. I believe in you!