Handmade Pottery: From Creation to Care

In today's world of mass production, handmade pottery stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of traditional craftsmanship.

As more people seek authentic, artisan-made pieces to enhance their homes, understanding the world of handmade pottery becomes increasingly valuable.

Whether you're a seasoned collector or new to the world of artisanal ceramics, this guide will help you appreciate the unique characteristics and proper care of handmade pottery. Visit our downtown Seattle store to explore our curated collection of handmade pieces from talented artists across America.

What is Handmade Pottery?

Handmade pottery represents the intersection of artistic vision and ancient craft, where skilled artisans transform raw clay into functional art through time-honored techniques.

Unlike mass-produced ceramics, each handmade piece tells a story through subtle variations and unique characteristics that reflect its maker's touch. Artists often draw inspiration from their surroundings, incorporating elements of nature, cultural traditions, and personal experience into their work.

The creation of handmade pottery begins with carefully selected clay, which artists shape using various techniques such as wheel throwing, hand building, or a combination of both. Each method requires years of practice to master and brings its own distinctive qualities to the finished piece. Wheel-thrown pottery often exhibits subtle spiral marks and balanced proportions, while hand-built pieces might showcase organic forms and intentionally irregular textures that celebrate the human touch.

Many artists develop their own signature glazes, creating unique color palettes that set their work apart. These custom glazes might incorporate traditional techniques passed down through generations or innovative approaches that push the boundaries of contemporary ceramics. The result is a piece that not only serves its functional purpose but also carries the distinctive mark of its creator.

What is the Difference Between Pottery and Ceramics?

While many people use the terms "pottery" and "ceramics" interchangeably, understanding their subtle differences can deepen your appreciation for these crafts.

Pottery traditionally refers to functional vessels and containers made from clay, such as bowls, plates, and vases.

Ceramics, on the other hand, encompasses a broader category that includes pottery but extends to sculptural works, technical components, and pieces fired at extremely high temperatures.

Fine ceramics might include porcelain works, which are fired at temperatures exceeding 2,300°F (1,260°C) to achieve a glass-like quality and translucency that pottery typically doesn't possess.

The artisan community continues to push the boundaries between these categories, creating works that challenge traditional definitions while honoring time-tested techniques. Each approach offers unique benefits and aesthetic qualities that appeal to different collectors and uses.

How to Tell if Pottery is Handmade

Identifying handmade pottery requires attention to detail and an understanding of the telltale signs that distinguish artisanal work from mass-produced pieces. Here are several key indicators that reveal a piece's handmade nature:

First, examine the piece's bottom or foot. Handmade pottery often shows throwing rings or subtle spiral marks on the bottom, along with the artist's signature or maker's mark. These marks might be accompanied by the year or a unique identifier that connects the piece to its creator's body of work.

Look for slight variations in thickness and form. While skilled artisans create remarkably consistent work, handmade pieces will show subtle variations that mass-production cannot replicate. These might include slightly irregular rims, unique glaze patterns, or small variations in size between similar pieces.

Weight can also be a telling factor. Handmade pottery often feels more substantial than mass-produced alternatives, with thoughtfully considered proportions that reflect both function and aesthetics. The balance of a piece in your hands can reveal the maker's understanding of form and utility.

Can Handmade Pottery Go in the Dishwasher?

While many handmade pottery pieces such as stoneware and porcelain are technically dishwasher-safe, hand washing remains the recommended approach to preserve their beauty and extend their lifespan.

Dishwasher detergents can be harsh on glazes, potentially dulling their surface over time or causing unexpected interactions with certain glaze chemicals.

Additionally, the intense heat and water pressure in dishwashers can stress pottery unnecessarily, particularly pieces with multiple glaze layers or decorative elements. Most artisans recommend gentle hand washing with mild soap and warm water to maintain their pieces' integrity and aesthetic qualities.

Can Handmade Pottery Go in the Microwave?

The microwave-safety of handmade pottery depends largely on the specific materials and techniques used in its creation. Most properly fired pottery is microwave-safe, but several factors warrant consideration before heating your handmade pieces.

First, check with the artist or seller about microwave compatibility. Many contemporary potters specifically design their functional pieces for modern convenience, ensuring they can withstand microwave use. However, pieces with metallic glazes, lusters, or certain decorative elements should never go in the microwave.

When using handmade pottery in the microwave, watch for signs of excessive heating or unusual reactions. If a piece becomes uncommonly hot to the touch or shows any changes in its glaze appearance, discontinue microwave use immediately.

Is Handmade Pottery Oven Safe?

Oven safety for handmade pottery requires careful consideration and depends on several factors, including the clay body used, firing temperature, and the piece's construction. While many handmade pottery pieces can withstand oven temperatures, sudden temperature changes pose the greatest risk to ceramic pieces.

Most stoneware and earthenware pottery fired at appropriate temperatures can handle oven use when properly preheated with the oven. However, it's essential to follow these guidelines:

Start with room-temperature pottery and place it in a cold oven, allowing it to heat gradually with the oven temperature. This prevents thermal shock, which can cause cracking or breakage.

Avoid exposing pottery to direct heat sources or flame, and never use pottery on stovetop burners unless specifically designed for that purpose.

When removing pottery from the oven, place it on a dry wooden board or cloth rather than a cold surface to prevent rapid temperature change.

Caring for Your Handmade Pottery Collection

Investing in handmade pottery brings beautiful, functional art into your home while supporting skilled artisans who dedicate their lives to this timeless craft. To ensure your pieces remain beautiful for generations:

Store pieces carefully, avoiding stacking when possible to prevent scratches or chips. Use padded separators if stacking is necessary.

Clean pieces promptly after use, avoiding abrasive scrubbers that might damage glazes or surfaces.

Display pieces away from direct sunlight to prevent potential glaze fading or discoloration over time.

Consider the piece's intended use – some decorative pieces might not be suitable for food service, while functional pieces should be used regularly to fulfill their purpose.

By understanding and properly caring for handmade pottery, you preserve both the artistic vision of its creator and its functional beauty for years to come. Each handmade pottery piece represents hours of skilled craftsmanship and artistic vision. When you choose handmade pottery, you're not just selecting a functional object – you're becoming part of a continuing tradition of artistic excellence that connects you directly to the maker's creative spirit.