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Frequently Asked Questions

Porcelain is fired at high temperatures, which makes it fine, strong and non-porous. Bone china contains bone ash, so it is lighter, slightly translucent and surprisingly resistant to chipping. Stoneware is thicker, heavier and more rustic, while earthenware is the most porous and chips most easily, making it better for occasional use.

Porcelain and bone china resist chipping best. Stoneware is sturdy but can chip at the rim, and reactive glazes vary from piece to piece. For family use, choose vitrified porcelain that is dishwasher and microwave safe, with a rolled or reinforced rim that takes knocks in the sink. Plain glazes hide wear better.

Eight suits most households, covering family meals, guests and the occasional breakage. Smaller homes can start with four to six and add more over time. If you host large gatherings only once or twice a year, simple white plates are easy to supplement without needing to match exactly. Open stock lets you replace singles.

Most dinner plates measure 26–28 cm across. Plates larger than 28 cm look generous but may not fit smaller cupboards or dishwasher racks, so measure both before buying. Side plates of around 20 cm and pasta bowls of about 22–24 cm are the most versatile companions. Deep bowls replace separate soup plates.

Yes, if you welcome variation: no two pieces are identical, which is much of the appeal. Check whether it is dishwasher and microwave safe, as some artisan glazes need hand-washing. Handmade pieces can be slightly heavier and less uniform in size, so check they stack neatly in your cupboards. Expect some variation in colour.

Most stoneware and porcelain is microwave safe, and many pieces are oven safe too, but only if the maker says so. Avoid sudden temperature changes, such as moving a dish from the fridge into a hot oven, which can crack it. Never microwave anything with gold, silver or platinum decoration.

Tableware

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Frequently Asked Questions

Tableware

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between porcelain, stoneware and bone china?+

What is the most durable tableware for everyday use?+

How many place settings should I buy?+

What size should dinner plates be?+

Is handmade or reactive-glaze tableware practical?+

Can I put stoneware or porcelain in the oven or microwave?+