Wabi-Sabi & Care
Embracing imperfection and understanding how to care for handmade ceramics ensures they become treasured companions in your daily life.
The Beauty of Imperfection
Wabi-Sabi is a Japanese aesthetic that finds beauty in imperfection, impermanence, and incompleteness. In handmade pottery, this philosophy celebrates the unique characteristics that make each piece one-of-a-kind.
Celebrating Unique Features
Finger Smudges: These subtle marks from the maker's hands are evidence of the human touch. They add character and remind us that each piece was shaped by skilled hands.
Natural Dimples: Small indentations occur naturally during the throwing process. These imperfections are not flaws—they're signatures of the handmade process.
Glaze Drips: When glaze flows during firing, it creates organic patterns. These drips are unpredictable and beautiful, making each piece unique.
Texture Variations: Natural variations in clay composition create subtle texture differences. These add visual interest and tactile appeal.
Care Instructions
Dishwasher Safety
All our stoneware pieces are dishwasher-safe. The high firing temperature creates a fully vitrified surface that resists water absorption. However, hand washing preserves the glaze's luster longer.
Use mild detergent and avoid harsh abrasives. Place pieces securely in the dishwasher to prevent chipping.
Microwave Use
Our ceramics are microwave-safe. The clay body and glazes do not contain metals that could cause sparking. However, avoid sudden temperature changes—don't transfer directly from freezer to microwave.
Allow pieces to cool gradually after microwaving to prevent thermal shock.
Oven Safety
Stoneware can withstand oven temperatures up to 450°F (232°C). Always preheat the oven with the piece inside to prevent cracking from sudden temperature changes.
Avoid placing hot pieces directly on cold surfaces—use trivets or heat-resistant pads.
Stain Removal
For stubborn stains, soak in warm water with baking soda overnight. Gently scrub with a soft brush if needed. Avoid bleach or harsh chemicals that could damage the glaze.
Coffee and tea stains can be removed with a paste of baking soda and water.
Storage
Store pieces with space between them to prevent chipping. Use soft padding or felt between stacked items. Avoid storing in areas with extreme temperature fluctuations.
Display pieces where they can be appreciated daily—handmade ceramics are meant to be used and enjoyed.
Longevity
With proper care, handmade ceramics can last for generations. The high firing temperature creates durable pieces that become more beautiful with age.
Small chips or cracks don't diminish a piece's value—they add to its story and character, embodying the Wabi-Sabi philosophy.
Embracing the Journey
Each piece tells a story through its unique characteristics. Over time, your pottery will develop a patina of use—small marks from daily life that add to its beauty and meaning. This is the essence of Wabi-Sabi: finding perfection in imperfection, beauty in the natural aging process.