How to Care for Handmade Dinnerware
Handmade dinnerware is crafted to be part of everyday life — shared meals, quiet mornings, and well-worn family tables. With a little thoughtful care, your pottery will age beautifully and serve you for years to come.
Everyday Use
Hand-thrown stoneware is made for daily use. It's fired at high temperatures to create a durable, food-safe surface that stands up to regular meals.
That said, handmade pieces appreciate a bit of mindfulness:
Avoid sudden temperature changes (for example, taking a piece directly from the refrigerator to a hot oven).
Let hot dishes cool naturally rather than placing them under cold water.
These small habits help prevent thermal shock and protect the integrity of the clay.
Dishwasher Use
Most handmade dinnerware is dishwasher safe, especially stoneware fired to maturity.
For best results:
Use the top rack when possible.
Avoid overcrowding so pieces don't knock against one another.
Mild, non-abrasive detergents are best for preserving glaze surfaces over time.
Hand washing is always the gentlest option and helps maintain the finish for generations.
Microwave & Oven Use
Handmade pottery is generally microwave safe, making it practical for everyday meals and reheating.
When using in the microwave or oven:
Start with room-temperature pottery.
Avoid placing empty pottery in a hot oven.
Do not place directly on an open flame or stovetop.
Think of handmade dinnerware the way you would a well-seasoned cast iron skillet — sturdy, but deserving of respect.
Cutting & Utensils
Glaze surfaces are strong, but knives and metal utensils can leave marks over time. These are cosmetic and do not affect function.
To keep surfaces looking their best:
Use wooden or silicone utensils when possible.
Avoid cutting directly on glazed surfaces.
Over time, these subtle marks often become part of the piece's character — a quiet record of meals shared.
Storage
When stacking dinnerware:
Place a soft liner, cloth, or paper towel between pieces to prevent surface scratching.
Avoid stacking too tightly.
Thoughtful storage goes a long way in preserving handmade finishes.
Natural Variations
Handmade pottery will always show subtle variations in glaze, shape, and texture. These are not flaws — they are the fingerprints of the maker and the kiln.
Small pinholes, speckles, or variations in glaze depth are part of what makes each piece one of a kind.
A Note on Aging Gracefully
Like a wooden table or linen napkins, handmade dinnerware improves with age. With use, it develops a warmth and presence that mass-produced pieces simply can't replicate.
Care for it well, use it often, and allow it to become part of your family's everyday rituals. Learn more about why handmade dinnerware is worth the investment.
Learn more about how we make our pottery or explore our collections.