Frequently Asked Questions
If you have any other questions that aren't answered here, please feel free to ask via the contact form
What are your pieces made of?
All my work is made from high quality stoneware clay. Stoneware is an amazing material due to its versatility and durability. It is also dishwasher and microwave safe making it great for kitchen ware!
What goes into making ceramics from scratch?
The ceramics process is very long and involves a huge amount of work. Everything begins with a lump of clay and somehow transforms into a beautiful and useable object. The process begins with preparing the clay, using a technique called wedging, this is essentially kneading the air out of the clay. Next is making the piece, this can be done in several ways such as throwing on the wheel or hand building, using layers of coils or rolled out slabs of clay. I use a combination of all of these techniques depending on the needs of the project. Once I am happy with the look of the piece, it needs to dry completely, this is called being bone dry. Once it has reached bone dry, it can be bisque fired. The bisque firing reaches just below 1000 degrees celsius, and transforms the raw clay into a more durable and very porous state. At this stage the piece is washed of any dust and the glaze is applied. Finally the piece can go through a glaze firing, reaching 1220 degrees celsius. The temperature causes the clay to vitrify, meaning it no longer absorbs any water. Once the pieces have cooled they are ready to be used!
How do I care for handmade ceramics?
All the practical pieces I create are dishwasher and microwave safe, however I do recommend hand washing to ensure the longevity of your new piece.
For decorative items I recommend cleaning by hand, with a damp sponge or cloth, to gently remove any dust.
Where are you based and where do you ship to?
I am based in London and I currently ship to the uk only.
If you are further afield and interested in purchasing any of my work, please get in touch via the contact form and I can see if we can make it possible!
What goes into pricing items?
My prices are based around not only the time and material cost, but also the skill that goes into creating original pieces. Each piece goes through several making stages and two kiln firings, which spans across several weeks. I try to create pieces that can cater to every budget, so that anyone can own a handmade art piece.
What are your inspirations?
I love to make functional items that are also artistic in their own right! I have been heavily inspired by feelings of nostalgia, most recently this has paved way to my classic biscuit range. I also love making ceramics that look like real life things. This idea started with a small realistic lemon pot I made in my first class, and has continued with these biscuits. For me, the challenge of making a material as robust and distinctive as clay, look like something completely different,
is the fun part!