how the magic happens
Technique
I work with high-temperature materials and glazes because:
They are reliable and durable. Such ceramics are less susceptible to damage.
Hygiene. Because such ceramics are less porous, they practically do not absorb moisture, which reduces the risk of bacterial growth.
And they are safe, because the glazes used in making such ceramics do not become toxic, are suitable for use with food and withstand high temperatures, retaining their properties
Process
1. Shaping. I either hand-mould or cast the slipcast in plaster molds.
2. Drying. The pieces are left to dry slowly to avoid warping.
3. Sanding. I remove any unevenness or minor surface imperfections.
4. Painting. I hand-paint designs or textures.
5. Biscuit firing. At 900 degrees, which makes the pieces strong but still porous.
6. Sanding and washing. The pieces are sanded again, then dusted and ready for glazing.
7. Glazing. I apply the glaze and dry the pieces before the next step.
8. Glaze firing. At 1200-1280 degrees. It is at this stage that the glaze is baked, forming a smooth glass-like coating.
9. Gluing decals. This is a kind of my signature for the products.
10. Decoration firing. At 800 degrees, and only after this are my products ready for packaging.
The products spend ~60 hours in the kiln, gradually heating up and cooling down.
The entire manufacturing process takes about three weeks. The time depends on the temperature and humidity in the studio.
Firing is done in batches, so sometimes it takes time to accumulate the required amount or pieces to load the kiln.
Caring for product
The products are dishwasher safe on a gentle cycle.
The ceramics are also they are microwave safe.
Ordering products
The standard lead time for custom orders is about three weeks.
If you order earlier, you will have time to redo a piece in case of a defect.
If you order very close to a specific deadline, I will make duplicate pieces in case of a defect.
Heavily personalized items (for example, with specific inscriptions, names, dates) have a higher price than usual, since I cannot sell a duplicate. If both items turn out well, I can sell both at the usual price to you, if you wish.
Therefore, I advise you to order well in advance. In such case I will have time in case of a defect and you will save money without additional charges.
Large orders (for example, >10 items) will require more time to manufacture, this is important to take into account.
