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Writer's pictureSydney Kennedy

The Art of Functional Ceramics: Balancing Beauty and Practicality

How Thoughtful Design Brings Everyday Pieces to Life


In my ceramic practice, I’m always walking a fine line between creating pieces that are beautiful and ensuring they’re practical for everyday use. When making functional ceramics, like mugs or bowls, the goal is to make something that people not only enjoy looking at but also love using—pieces that fit seamlessly into daily life.


For example, when I’m creating a mug, I think about how it feels in the hand. No one wants to hold a mug that feels like it weighs three pounds, right? I aim for lightweight but durable, using a porcelain-based clay that’s smooth to the touch and sturdy enough for daily use. Functionality is essential: bowls need to be big enough for a hearty serving of whatever kinds of soup or ramen (my favorite) with room at the top to avoid spills, and my mugs don’t have deep crevices inside—because who wants to deal with coffee stains you can’t get out.


Letting Function Guide Design



For me, function usually leads the design process. I have a clear vision of how a piece should work in someone’s hands. For instance, I design cups that are just the right size for a one-handed hold. When it comes to aesthetics, I find ways to elevate that function without compromising usability. A great example of this is my White and Blue Ceramic Tumbler.

A small ceramic cup with a soft blue and white marbled design against a gray background

The White and Blue Ceramic Tumbler stands out to me because it strikes that balance beautifully. It’s marbled in blue and white, and its size makes it perfect for sipping espresso or hot tea, allowing you to really breathe in the aromas. I intentionally left off a handle because I felt it would distract from the marbled aesthetic—letting the design shine while still being perfectly functional. I hope to make larger tumblers in the future with the same marbled finish.



Testing for Usability


Every piece goes through its own mini-trial in my home before it hits the shop. I love using some of my creations to get a feel for how they function in everyday settings. I also ask for feedback from others who use them. If a piece breaks from normal use, not from being mishandling, my  policy is to replace it for free.


As I continue to refine my process, I’m planning to test my ceramics more rigorously to ensure durability. For example, I’ll start using the boiling water method to make sure my pieces can withstand quick temperature changes without cracking. I’m also checking the vitrification process to ensure the clay is properly hardened. If you're curious about the science behind vitrification, I recommend checking out Ceramicartsnetwork.com.


Material and Safety


The materials I use play a big role in ensuring both form and function are balanced. I work with a porcelain-based clay fired to cone 6, which creates a smooth finish that doesn’t always require glazing. However, for functional items like mugs, cups, bowls, and plates, I use food-safe and dinnerware-safe glazes.


Food-safe glazes are non-toxic and are safe for direct contact with food, while dinnerware-safe glazes are not only food-safe but also free of any textures or crevices where bacteria might grow. If you want to dive deeper into these glaze safety standards, Mayco has a great resource.


In the end, the goal is always to create pieces that are both functional and beautiful—something that’s a joy to use every day, but also adds a little touch of artistry to the everyday moments.


I’d love to hear from you: Please feel free to leave comments, share your thoughts, or ask any questions you may have. For more behind-the-scenes content, follow me on on Instagram and Facebook at Your Sister's Pot Shop. I also encourage you to sign up for my newsletter to stay up to date on new pieces and blog posts. Your support means the world to me, and I can’t wait to continue sharing this creative journey with you.


Explore My Collection: Visit my shop to see the latest creations and find a piece that resonates with your story. Every purchase supports an artist’s dream and helps me continue to create from the heart. Let’s build a community that values courage, creativity, and the beauty of handmade art. I can’t wait to see which piece speaks to you!

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