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Writer's pictureSydney Kennedy

Caring for Handmade Ceramics: A Guide to Lasting Beauty

Updated: Nov 1

Essential Do's and Don'ts for Protecting Your Handmade Ceramics


Welcome to Day 30 of my blog challenge! If you’re reading this, you probably already have a piece from Your Sister’s Pot Shop or are thinking about adding one to your collection. Each piece of handmade pottery is crafted to be both functional and beautiful, and with a little care, it can last for many years to come. Today, I’m excited to walk you through some simple steps to keep your ceramics looking and working their best.


Understanding Your Piece: Stoneware with High-Quality Glaze


Top view of a hand-thrown ceramic bowl with a smooth, soft blue and white clay. The bowl has subtle concentric rings at the base, giving it a minimalist, natural design

All of my pieces are made from high-fired stoneware clay, which has a smooth, porcelain-like finish and high durability. I only use food-safe glazes, so you can enjoy using your piece for meals, drinks, and gatherings with confidence.


If any piece is not food safe, I always make that clear on the listing and on the "Take Care" card included with your order. While this stoneware is strong, like all handmade ceramics, it still deserves some gentle care to ensure lasting durability.


Common Care Mistakes and How to Avoid Them


It’s easy to get caught up in everyday habits without realizing that some actions can cause wear and tear on handmade ceramics. Here are a few tips to avoid some common mistakes:


  • Stacking Carefully: If you’re stacking your ceramics, be mindful of the edges. Handmade ceramics can chip if edges are bumped or rubbed against other surfaces too hard, so if you must stack, do so gently.

  • Temperature Extremes: Like all ceramics, my pieces can handle high temperatures, but sudden, extreme changes are best avoided. Taking a piece directly from the freezer and pouring boiling water into it, for example, is likely to cause cracking. I test my pieces with boiling water to ensure they’re durable, but gradual temperature changes are still safest.


Cleaning: Why Hand-Washing is Best


Although technically dishwasher safe, I recommend hand-washing your ceramics. Here’s why:

  • Dishwasher Risks: The dishwasher’s strong jets and rapid heat changes can cause your piece to knock against other items, which may lead to chipping or cracking over time. Hand-washing keeps your ceramic safe from that extra movement and to keep your functional ceramic pieces functional.

  • Using Gentle Tools: Stick to soft sponges, avoid abrasive scrubbing, and be careful not to let the piece sit in water for too long. Treating it gently while cleaning will help maintain its finish and structure.


Microwave Safety


Even though my stoneware pieces are microwave- and dishwasher-safe in a technical sense, I always recommend avoiding these appliances. Microwaving can cause rapid heating, which is especially hard on ceramic pieces. Over time, repeated temperature shocks can weaken the structure, so I suggest warming food or drinks outside the microwave when using handmade ceramics.


Handling Pieces with Overglazes


I plan to start incorporating overglazes like Mother of Pearl and gold into some of my pieces, so I wanted to share a few tips on caring for these finishes. Overglazes add a beautiful, delicate layer that requires extra care.


Unlike my usual glazes, these overglazes are applied in a very thin layer and can wear away with harsh scrubbing. Treat these pieces like fine china—handle gently, avoid stacking them against other items, and hand-wash with extra care to keep the delicate detailing intact.


Last Tips for the Longevity of your Handmade Ceramics

  • Stacking: While stacking is okay if done mindfully, avoid placing heavy pieces on delicate items, like stacking a plate on top of a mug.

  • Soak Sparingly: Try to avoid soaking your pieces in the sink. While it may be inconvenient to wash a dish right after use, reducing soaking time helps the piece retain its durability and absorb less water over time.


Your handmade ceramics are crafted to last. A little extra care goes a long way in preserving the piece's character and charm. Thank you for taking the time to learn more about caring for your pieces—every step you take to protect them adds to their longevity and lets you continue enjoying the beauty and artistry in each one.


Thank you for being part of the Your Sister’s Pot Shop family and for treating your handmade ceramics with the care they deserve.

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