Creating beautiful art you can use has such a big process and makes each hand crafted mug so special.

The first stage involves moulding the mug. I hand pinch the mugs meaning each one is different and has individual markings. I pop the logo on the bottom and they are then left to dry and get leather hard. This is where I would personalise your mug (should you want it) and add the handle. The mug is then left to become bone dry so they can be washed, painted and sent for their first fire in the kiln to become bisqueware. This fire takes 2 days to reach temperature and cool down. 

After the first fire the mugs are ready to be glazed like a cinnamon bun. The glaze can make or literally break a mug even after they’ve been checked for cracks and imperfections beforehand. It’s then off the kiln again for a hotter fire which can take 2 days. A third fire is needed if gold is chosen. 

Ideally 8 weeks allows for any breakages along the way. The whole process takes time and the clay is very fragile when drying. If there are issues during greenware stage (before the first firing) the mug will need to be made again. 

So much love goes into making these mugs and I honestly pour my heart into them. I hope knowing how they’re made makes them more special to you. Please tag me on Instagram so I can see them in their new homes @cup.ofj

Thank you