By Robert Adamson
Everyday we use tableware to serve breakfast, lunch and dinner, but rarely do we consider the effect it can have on our enjoyment of the food or drink we are about to consume. Domestic pots have always gone hand in hand with human civilisation. So what does handmade tableware bring to our life that cheaper run-of-the-mill factory-made wares don't? Handmade pottery or ceramics embody the idea of human toil and a link with other people. Most people have not lost touch with this concept when it comes to food, and still favour a good home cooked meal rather than fast food on the go. From a simple breakfast to sophisticated afternoon tea or a special occasion like Christmas, why not let your tableware do the talking.
It has often been said that breakfast is the most important meal of the day and helps you start your day in the right direction. But even with the most basic breakfast you can start the day with things of beauty. If anything, handmade tableware demonstrates that it is possible to combine both function and beauty. There seems to be quite an art in finding the perfect cereal bowl - one that isn't too deep and therefore prevents your cereals from becoming too soggy too quickly!
What could be more quintessentially English than afternoon tea? There is nothing more enjoyable about summer than lingering over tea, scones and cake and letting the afternoon drift by. As they say: 'everything stops for tea!' But there is an art to afternoon tea. To really indulge in the opportunity you want everything "just so". It is important to have a ceramic teapot - teapot and pottery go together like scones and cream! You also want to make sure you have cups and saucers - this is not an occasion for mugs!
Christmas is the highlight of the festive season, and definitely a time to dawdle at the table. Everything has been planned meticulously and is a feast for your senses. A little thought can make all the difference, and you need to make sure you set the tone for what is to come even before the food is served. So why not lay a table that will be a conversation piece over Christmas lunch? To guarantee a touch of elegance to any place setting, make sure you set out accessories like serviette rings and napkin decorations.
Last but certainly not least, a few words of wisdom to help you make the most out of your handmade tableware - whether it be for everyday use or special occasions. The majority of modern tableware is now dishwasher safe. Indeed, new plates usually have glazing over the decoration so as to ensure that the pattern will not fade. However, older or hand painted pieces do not have a protective glaze and will fade over time even when hand washing. You can easily tell if an item is not glazed by feeling for a slightly raised pattern. Check the care instructions to see whether items are suitable for the microwave, oven or freezer.
It has often been said that breakfast is the most important meal of the day and helps you start your day in the right direction. But even with the most basic breakfast you can start the day with things of beauty. If anything, handmade tableware demonstrates that it is possible to combine both function and beauty. There seems to be quite an art in finding the perfect cereal bowl - one that isn't too deep and therefore prevents your cereals from becoming too soggy too quickly!
What could be more quintessentially English than afternoon tea? There is nothing more enjoyable about summer than lingering over tea, scones and cake and letting the afternoon drift by. As they say: 'everything stops for tea!' But there is an art to afternoon tea. To really indulge in the opportunity you want everything "just so". It is important to have a ceramic teapot - teapot and pottery go together like scones and cream! You also want to make sure you have cups and saucers - this is not an occasion for mugs!
Christmas is the highlight of the festive season, and definitely a time to dawdle at the table. Everything has been planned meticulously and is a feast for your senses. A little thought can make all the difference, and you need to make sure you set the tone for what is to come even before the food is served. So why not lay a table that will be a conversation piece over Christmas lunch? To guarantee a touch of elegance to any place setting, make sure you set out accessories like serviette rings and napkin decorations.
Last but certainly not least, a few words of wisdom to help you make the most out of your handmade tableware - whether it be for everyday use or special occasions. The majority of modern tableware is now dishwasher safe. Indeed, new plates usually have glazing over the decoration so as to ensure that the pattern will not fade. However, older or hand painted pieces do not have a protective glaze and will fade over time even when hand washing. You can easily tell if an item is not glazed by feeling for a slightly raised pattern. Check the care instructions to see whether items are suitable for the microwave, oven or freezer.
About the Author:
SeekandAdore.com brings the work of british designer makers with people looking to discover and buy unique & beautiful things. We make it more personal to buy pottery or ceramics - from handmade gifts, fashion accessories to fresh and competitive Napkin rings & coasters.