Studio NotesInside the ceramics workshop: what to expect
A two-hour, small-group class where you throw your own bowl on the wheel. What happens on the day, what to wear and when your piece is ready.
Stoneware is tough, but a few habits keep glazes bright and bases free of cracks. A short care guide for mugs, bowls and vases.
Author
Aminul Islam

Part 2 of 3
A Calm Home, Room by RoomStoneware is fired at high temperature, which makes it dense and durable. Treated well, a mug or bowl will outlast most of the kitchen. These are the habits that matter.
Our Stoneware Bowl Set and Ink Glazed Mug are dishwasher safe. Hand washing with warm water and a soft sponge keeps glazes glossy for longer. Avoid scouring pads on matte finishes; they leave grey marks.
The most common cause of cracks is a sudden temperature change. Do not move a cold dish straight into a hot oven, or pour boiling water into a mug that has been in the fridge. Let pieces reach room temperature first.
Our mugs and bowls are microwave safe. Use a piece in the oven only when its product page says it is oven safe, and always start from cold.
The foot ring of most pieces is left unglazed so it does not stick in the kiln. It can absorb water, so dry it before stacking. If a base feels rough on a table, rub it gently with fine sandpaper.
Vases such as the Oat Stoneware Vase are glazed inside and hold water. Change it every two days and wash with a bottle brush to stop rings forming.
Small chips on a rim can be smoothed with a diamond file. If a crack runs through the body, retire the piece from food use and give it a second life holding pens or dried stems.
About the Author
Aminul Islam
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