Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What kind of clay do you use?
I use a variety of stoneware clays that I fire to a high temperature to achieve vitrification, meaning that the raw clay has undergone a transformation by heat and fusion into a hard, glass-like compound.
Are your products dishwasher / microwave safe?
I would always recommend hand-washing and avoiding using your new purchases in the microwave for extended lengths of time, after all they are not cookware. However, my products have been through the dishwasher and microwave at my home with no ill effects. I would like to note that dishwasher detergents are much harsher than hand-washing detergents and over time can affect the surface quality of a glaze, so I would continue to recommend only hand-washing if you want to be sure your things remain beautiful.
Can I bring my children to pottery lessons?
I’m afraid my classes and taster sessions are for adults only. Wheel throwing is not really suitable for younger children, and additionally I am not set up in a way that allows me to keep children safe. However, older, sensible teenagers may be allowed by prior arrangement, please contact me if this is something you would like to do.
Can I hold a party / event / group booking at RMC Ceramics?
Yes! Although the studio is compact and we have a maximum of 4 wheels, so realistically the largest group we could accommodate is 8 people, and you would have to take turns on the wheels. Contact me for a quotation or more information.
Can I buy from you in person?
You are welcome to visit the studio by prior arrangement, but please be aware we are a working studio and not primarily a shop. I also attend various events in the local area as a way to sell in person, please see my Events page for more details on these, or alternatively a selection of my products is also stocked in a few local shops, see the links page for details.
How eco-friendly are you?
I do everything in my power to only use recyclable or recycled materials. My packing peanuts are made from cornstarch so they can go in your food waste or compost, my boxes are uncoated and can be recycled with all cardboard, and I only use paper based recyclable tape. If you receive an item from me with and plastic or air based packaging, rest assured that I am reusing packaging I myself have received, and I encourage you to reuse it yourself.
I try to make my ceramic practice as sustainable as possible by minimising water use and reclaiming as much clay as possible. With an electric kiln there is not much I can do about energy use, though I do only run the kiln when it is full to capacity, and often spend an hour playing ‘kiln tetris’ trying to fit in as much as I can in one load. My energy supplier also sources from renewables when available.
Can you supply my restaurant / cafe / bistro?
Yes of course! I’m happy to take on commissions for bespoke tableware and offer generous wholesale discounts for large purchases. Please contact me to discuss your requirements.