Which is stronger earthenware or stoneware

Reading time 8 min. This guide breaks down the durability and functionality differences between stoneware, porcelain, and earthenware. We also share a trick for determining if a piece of pottery is high-quality — and why it's so important to ensure quality when investing in ceramics. Creating pottery out of clay is one of the oldest crafts in human history.

In fact, researchers have found that ancient pottery could date back to 18, BC! Pottery continues to thrive today, with skilled ceramicists from around the world continuing to fire natural clay from the earth to create striking art and durable vessels for storage, dining, and drinking.

In this guide, we break down the basics for those just entering the expansive world of pottery. We interviewed Katie Mudd, the expert ceramicist behind Katie Mudd Ceramics, to discuss the differences between stoneware, porcelain, and earthenware, as well as how we can ensure a piece of pottery is high-quality — and why that matters.

Ceramics can fall into one of three categories: stoneware, porcelain, or earthenware. Stoneware is an extremely durable, dense clay body that has a rock-like — or stone-like — texture when fired. Portland, Oregon ceramist Katie Mudd explained that, because stoneware is less porous than earthenware, stoneware makes for an ideal material to create tableware and other vessels for eating and drinking. The gray-colored clay that stoneware is made from is typically fired in a kiln between 2, and 2, degrees Fahrenheit.

Once fired, stoneware is waterproof and does not need to be glazed in order to be waterproofed. Most stoneware is both microwave— and dishwasher-safe.

Designer and ceramicist Katie Mudd thoughtfully handcrafts all of her dinnerware and planters in her Portland, Oregon studio from materials sourced from the Pacific Northwest. Katie Mudd uses durable stoneware for most of her work and occasionally creates porcelain pieces as well. All of her pieces are microwave and dishwasher safe.

Co is dedicated to creating quality dinnerware, bakeware, and drinkware while showcasing the beauty of North African heritage stoneware crafts. Using a process that was developed over 2, years ago, local artisans are able to ensure that the tradition is thriving while using locally sourced and natural ingredients.

Co highly values their artisan makers, treats them with respect, and provides economic and educational opportunities in exchange for their world-class craftsmanship. Moonshine Design is a woman-owned company who handcrafts all of their stoneware pieces in Houston, Texas.

All of their products are food safe and non-toxic, making them an excellent option for tea, coffee, or storing small household items.

Like stoneware, porcelain has a durable and dense clay body, but it is a more refined clay. Porcelain can be fired at extremely high temperatures around 2, to 2, degrees Fahrenheit, or 1, to 1, degrees Celcius. Bone china is often ornate, and most is not dishwasher-safe. Cheryl S.

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What Are Their Properties? What Differentiates Them? Which Is the Best Choice for You? Pros and Cons of Stainless Steel Rings. When it comes to selecting a clay body, the possibilities seem endless. There are so many different formulations and variations, colors, textures, workability, throwability is that a word? It can get confusing to select the perfect one. I use both earthenware and stoneware in my work.

I gravitate towards white stoneware Laguna WS-4 is my favorite but I also dabble in brown and black stoneware and also earthenware like Laguna EM when the project warrants low-fire glazes and underglazes. Here are my two cents on how to choose between earthenware and stoneware.

Or at least how I decide before I sit down to start a piece. NOTE: It is important that you always choose a glaze that matures at the same cone level as your clay. This ensures food safety if stated on the label and reduces problems with glaze fit. Your email. Create your account Lost password?