Giulio Pottery Studio

Earthenware, stoneware, and porcelain are all types of ceramics that differ in terms of their composition, firing temperature, and properties. Earthenware is made from clay that is fired at a relatively low temperature and is porous and opaque. Stoneware is made from a denser clay that is fired at a higher temperature and is more durable and non-porous. Porcelain is made from a type of clay that is fired at an even higher temperature and is translucent, strong, and non-porous.

The process of making ceramics typically involves the following steps: preparing the clay by kneading, wedging, and shaping it into a desired form, allowing it to dry until it is "leather hard," trimming and refining the shape, allowing it to dry further until it is "bone dry," bisque firing it in a kiln to remove any remaining moisture, glazing it with a desired color or texture, and firing it again at a high temperature to vitrify the clay and fuse the glaze to the surface.

Ceramic pieces can be delicate and require special care to ensure their longevity. To care for your ceramic pieces, avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures or sudden changes in temperature, as this can cause them to crack or break. Hand wash them with a mild detergent and avoid using abrasive sponges or cleaning agents. Store them carefully, either by wrapping them in soft materials or displaying them on a sturdy shelf. Finally, enjoy your ceramic pieces and use them often, as they are meant to be functional as well as beautiful.