The Quiet Ritual of Keeping: How to Ensure Your Artisan Ceramics Become Cherished Heirlooms
Every piece of pottery from a master artisan carries not just beauty, but a legacy. It is an object made to be lived with, used daily, and eventually, passed down.
At Baleinette, we invite you into the second chapter of this story: the ritual of keeping. By approaching care not as a chore, but as a mindful act, you ensure your favourite ceramics will gather history, not wear.
Here is a simplified guide to preserving the enduring grace of your handmade collection.
The Daily Act of Tenderness
The most critical moment for your pottery is the daily clean. For us, this is the time to connect with the object one last time before the day ends.
Mindful Cleaning & Temperature
Avoid Extremes: Never expose hot ceramics to cold water, or vice versa. This sudden temperature shock (called thermal shock) is the number one cause of hairline cracks. Let your pieces rest and cool completely before washing.
The Gentle Handwash: The high-pressure jets and harsh detergents of a dishwasher can chip edges and dull glazes over time. Embrace a soft sponge and a mild, natural soap.
The Soft Landing: If you must use a rack, line the base of your sink with a soft cloth to protect the delicate rim when rinsing.
Tending to the Details
Addressing subtle imperfections is part of maintaining the beauty of a well-loved piece. These quick fixes prevent small blemishes from becoming permanent.
Restoring the Glaze (Stain Removal)
Those faint gray lines from metal cutlery or the dark patina of tannins from coffee and tea do not have to be permanent:
The Softest Scrub: For stains, create a gentle paste of baking soda and water. Apply it with a fingertip or a soft cloth. This non-abrasive action lifts the stain without scratching the artisan's careful finish.
Spot Check: If you notice fine metal marks, a specialised ceramic cleaner can work wonders.
The Dangers of Dampness
When storing, ensure your pieces are completely dry. Stacking bowls or plates while they are still damp can trap moisture, which is especially harmful to the unglazed foot of a piece.
Storage Tip: If space requires stacking, use a thin piece of felt or a coaster between each piece to guard the surface from friction.
A Lifetime of Unwavering Beauty
Your handmade ceramics are heirlooms in the making. Proper care is simply a pledge to their future.
Metallic Finishes: If your piece features metallic detailing (gold or silver), never place it in the microwave. The risk of sparking and permanent damage to the decoration is too great.
Authenticity is Imperfect: Remember that the small iron specks, subtle colour variations, and unique weight are signs of the artisan's hand. These are features, not flaws, and should be embraced.
Cherish the Journey
Your purchase is not just a transaction; it's the beginning of a long-term relationship with a piece of art. By following these simple steps, you ensure the handmade piece you cherish today can become a future family heirloom.