Luckily, I am a jeweler and find packaging has developed into a simple art. When sending  a piece in the mail, I choose from a variety of boxes made for just that. If need be, I add a little cotton or put the piece in a see-thru bag to keep it from moving around. Then I put the box in a padded paper mailer along with my card, with a receipt written on the back and a thank you on the front. Easy. At the studio I use fabric bags that I buy in various places. People choose them over boxes nearly every time and I feel good to offer something reusable to them. Glad I am not a potter. You guys have a job to package your wares!