How Handmade Ceramic Plates Are Made

Step 1: Preparation & Wheel Throwing

Every piece begins with high-quality natural clay. The clay is thoroughly kneaded (wedged) to remove air bubbles, then centered on the potter's wheel or press-molded into precision plate contours.

Step 2: Bisque Firing

Once dried to leather-hard and bone-dry consistency over several days, the unglazed clay undergoes its first kiln firing (bisque firing) at around 900°C (1,650°F), hardening the body into porous earthenware or stoneware.

Step 3: Freehand Painting & Glazing

Artisans sketch delicate outlines using graphite or charcoal, then paint motifs using mineral oxide paints (cobalt blue, copper green, iron red). Next, a clear glossy protective glaze is applied by dipping.

Step 4: The Final High Firing

The glazed plates enter the high-heat kiln at 1,020°C (1,868°F). Hours of intense heat melt the glaze into a vitreous, glass-hard protective shield that locks in the colors forever.