When I first started curating tableware for Thukthaeshop, I quickly realized that handcrafted ceramics are as much about story and touch as they are about function. I still remember the first time I held a small stoneware bowl from a studio in Portugal: the weight in my hands, the tiny irregularity at the rim, the way the glaze pooled differently where the potter’s thumb had pressed. Those details tell you something important — about process, about the maker, and about how that piece will live in your home. Below I share practical things I look for in handcrafted ceramics before I buy, so you can feel confident choosing pieces that will bring everyday beauty and lasting value to your table.

Material and clay body

The clay itself determines a lot: durability, color, firing temperature, and the final mouthfeel for items like mugs and bowls. Common clay bodies include earthenware, stoneware, and porcelain, each with different characteristics.

  • Earthenware: Typically fired at lower temperatures and often more porous unless glazed. It has a warm, rustic look. Great for decorative pieces and casual use, but can be less chip-resistant.
  • Stoneware: Fired at higher temperatures and more durable. Many of my favorite everyday plates and bowls are stoneware — they strike a lovely balance between robustness and expressive glazing.
  • Porcelain: Fine, often translucent when thin, and usually fired at very high temperatures. Porcelain can feel elegant and refined, ideal for dinner plates or delicate cups.

    • When shopping, I read product descriptions closely and, if possible, ask the maker which clay they used. If the listing doesn’t specify, it’s reasonable to message the seller — small studios are usually happy to share details.

    Glaze and finish

    Glaze is where a lot of the personality comes from, but it also affects function. I look for three things: visual quality, texture, and safety.

  • Visual quality: Is the glaze even? Do you like the way it reacts to light and shows texture? Some glazes have deliberate drips, speckles, or crazing — these are design choices, not flaws, but make sure you appreciate them.
  • Texture: Smooth, glossy glazes feel different from matte or satin finishes. For mugs, I prefer a glaze that’s comfortable to the touch and not too slippery when wet.
  • Food safety: Always check that the glaze is food-safe and lead-free. Reputable makers state this clearly; if they don’t, ask. This matters especially for items that will hold acidic foods or liquids.

    • Functionality: what you’ll actually use it for

    I buy ceramics with purpose. A statement platter that ends up in the cupboard is a missed opportunity, so I match the piece to real-life needs.

  • Size and proportion: Consider how pieces will stack and fit in your cabinets. A beautiful oversized bowl is only useful if you have a place to store it.
  • Microwave, oven and dishwasher safety: Many handcrafted items are dishwasher-safe, but not all. If you plan to reheat food in ceramic dishes, check thermal shock resistance. Some stoneware tolerates oven use; earthenware may not.
  • Weight and balance: Heavier pieces can feel luxurious but may not be comfortable for everyday use. Check the handle balance on mugs — a well-placed thumb rest makes a big difference.

    • Craftsmanship and signs of quality

    There are subtle cues that reveal a maker’s skill. When I examine a piece — in person or through detailed photos — I look for:

  • Even thickness: Walls should be relatively uniform, especially on drinking vessels. Very thin spots can indicate rushed throwing or weak structure.
  • Clean foot and base: A neatly trimmed foot ring and a smooth base that sits flat indicate attention to detail. Rough or unstable bases can scratch surfaces or wobble on the table.
  • Glaze application control: Look at the rim, foot, and inside. Where glaze stops, the edge should be intentional. Drips or bubbles can happen, but consistent bubbling or pinholes across a line often points to kiln or glaze formulation issues.

    • Maker provenance and techniques

    I’m drawn to makers with a clear voice and transparent process. Knowing where a piece comes from and how it was made enriches the object’s meaning in my home.

  • Studio location and story: Many makers share a short biography or photos of their studio. I love seeing hands at work, the kiln, and test tiles — they connect me to the piece.
  • Technique: Wheel-thrown, slab-built, or press-molded pieces each have different aesthetics. Wheel-thrown items often show subtle rings from the potter’s hand; slab-built work can be more architectural.
  • Limited runs: Small-batch or numbered series increase a piece’s uniqueness. I’ll splurge more readily on limited editions because I know I’m bringing home something special.

    • Color consistency and matching sets

    If you’re buying a set, color consistency is crucial. Handmade items naturally vary, but I prefer variations within a coherent palette.

  • Sample photos: Ask for photos of multiple pieces from the same batch so you can judge how much variation to expect.
  • Mix-and-match philosophy: I personally love pairing slightly different glaze tones for a lived-in look. But if you want a uniform table, request pieces from the same firing or glaze overlay.

    • Price, value and repairability

    Handcrafted ceramics often cost more than mass-produced alternatives — and for good reasons: time, materials, expertise. I think of price in terms of long-term value.

  • Cost vs. longevity: A well-made stoneware piece can last for decades. Paying more for something you’ll use daily makes sense.
  • Repair options: Ask whether the maker offers repair services or if pieces can be mended with kintsugi-style repairs. Some studios will re-glaze or fix chips for a fee.
  • Resale or heirloom potential: Limited edition or signature series by respected makers might retain value or become cherished heirlooms.

    • Practical checklist before buying

    Here’s a quick list I use before adding ceramics to the cart. It helps me avoid impulse buys that don’t fit my home life:

  • Read the product description for clay body and firing temperature.
  • Check for food-safe and lead-free glazing statements.
  • Look at multiple photos (base, rim, close-ups) and ask for more if needed.
  • Confirm size and weight, and visualize storage and stacking.
  • Ask about microwave, oven, and dishwasher safety if those matter to you.
  • Verify lead time — many handcrafted pieces ship in batches and can take weeks.
    • Feature Earthenware Stoneware Porcelain
    Durability Moderate High High (but can chip)
    Look Rustic, warm Versatile, tactile Delicate, refined
    Common uses Decorative bowls, planters Everyday plates, mugs Fine dining, teacups

    Finally, trust your instincts. If a piece makes you smile every time you see it, that’s a powerful reason to buy. At Thukthaeshop I select ceramics that feel honest and livable — pieces that tell a maker’s story while making daily rituals more beautiful. If you ever want a second opinion on a piece you’re considering, send me a photo — I love helping people choose the right handmade treasures for their homes.