A glazed stoneware bowl is made to be used every day. A few simple habits are enough to keep it looking good for years.
Avoid sudden changes of temperature. A piece taken from the fridge should not go straight into a hot oven, and a very hot dish should not be set down on a cold or wet surface. This is the first cause of cracks.
Wash gently. A soft sponge and a little washing-up liquid suit every piece. Abrasive pads end up dulling the glaze.
Store without rubbing. The feet of the pieces are left unglazed: stacked directly on a glazed surface, they can scratch it. A square of cloth or paper between two plates solves the problem.
Accept the patina. Over time, a crackled glaze may take on a slight tint, especially with tea or coffee. It is not a flaw: the piece lives with you.
Not sure about a particular piece, for the oven or the dishwasher? Write to the studio and Ingrid will answer.
