Product Care

Proper care and maintenance of Polli Pots ceramic items are essential to ensure their longevity and aesthetic appeal. While durable, these ceramics require specific handling and cleaning techniques to maintain their quality over time. Below are detailed care instructions for your handcrafted Polli Pots ceramics, including Danish Mugs and Large Plates.

Cleaning: It is recommended to clean Polli Pots ceramic items with a soft sponge or cloth. Avoid using abrasive materials that could scratch the surface or glaze. For general cleaning, warm soapy water is effective. Rinse thoroughly to remove any soap residue, as this can affect both the appearance of the glaze and the taste of food and beverages served in the ceramics.

Dishwasher Use: While some Polli Pots ceramics may be labeled as dishwasher safe, it is advisable to hand wash whenever possible. High temperatures and harsh detergents used in dishwashers can, over time, lead to fading or chipping of the glaze. If using a dishwasher, place ceramics on the top rack to minimize exposure to heat and avoid contact with heavier items.

Microwave and Oven Safety: Many Polli Pots ceramic pieces are microwave safe; however, it is essential to follow specific care guidelines. Avoid placing ceramics in a preheated oven, as sudden temperature changes can cause cracking. If using ceramics in the oven, ensure they are at room temperature before exposure to heat.

Storage: When storing Polli Pots ceramics, stack them carefully to avoid chipping. Use protective padding, such as cloth or bubble wrap, between pieces to prevent scratches. Store ceramics in a dry place to avoid moisture accumulation, which can lead to mold or mildew.

Handling: Always handle Polli Pots ceramics with care. Avoid dropping or knocking them against hard surfaces, as this can lead to cracks or breaks. When lifting, support the base of the item rather than the rim to prevent unnecessary stress on the structure.

Temperature Changes: Handcrafted ceramics can be sensitive to rapid temperature changes. Avoid exposing Polli Pots pieces to extreme heat or cold, as this can cause thermal shock, leading to cracks. For example, do not place a cold ceramic mug directly into a hot oven.

Stains and Discolouration: If your Polli Pots ceramics become stained, a paste made from baking soda and water can be effective for removing discolouration. Apply the paste gently and rinse thoroughly. For stubborn stains, consider using a non-abrasive cleaner specifically designed for ceramics.

By following these care instructions, you can preserve the beauty and functionality of your Polli Pots ceramics for years to come. Proper maintenance not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of each piece but also ensures it remains a lasting and meaningful part of your home.

Step 1

Preparing the Clay

Every piece begins with raw clay. The clay is weighed and wedged by hand — a process of kneading that removes air pockets and aligns the particles. Proper wedging ensures structural integrity and an even texture.

Clay is chosen for its plasticity, strength, and firing behavior. The body must complement the intended glaze and temperature.

Step 2

Forming the Piece

The clay is shaped either by wheel-throwing or hand-building.

  • Wheel-throwing involves centering the clay on a rotating wheel and drawing the walls upward through controlled pressure.
  • Hand-building may include coiling, slab construction, or sculptural forming.

At this stage, proportion, wall thickness, and balance are established. The form is refined while the clay remains pliable.

step 3

Trimming and Refinement

Once the piece reaches a leather-hard state (firm but still workable), it is trimmed.

  • Excess clay is removed from the base.
  • The foot is defined.
  • Edges and surfaces are sharpened or softened.

Handles or additional elements are attached at this stage, requiring careful scoring and slipping to ensure structural bonding.

step 4

Drying

Pieces must dry slowly and evenly. Rapid drying causes warping or cracking.


Drying can take several days depending on thickness and humidity. The goal is complete evaporation of physical water before firing.

step 5

First Firing (Bisque Firing)

The dried piece is fired in a kiln, typically between 900–1000°C.

This transforms fragile clay into ceramic through a chemical process:

  • Organic materials burn away.
  • The clay becomes porous but permanently hardened.

After bisque firing, the piece is durable enough to handle and glaze.

step 6

Glaze Development and Application

Glaze is a mixture of minerals and oxides that melt during firing to form a glass-like surface.


Developing original glazes involves:

  • Testing mineral combinations
  • Adjusting silica, alumina, and flux ratios
  • Firing multiple samples to evaluate texture, tone, and surface reaction


Application methods include pouring, dipping, brushing, or layering. Thickness and interaction with the clay body influence the final result.

step 7

 Glaze Firing

The glazed piece returns to the kiln, often at higher temperatures (1200–1300°C for stoneware).


During this firing:

  • Glaze materials melt and fuse.
  • Color develops through oxidation or reduction.
  • Surface variations emerge based on heat distribution and kiln atmosphere.

No two firings are identical. Subtle shifts in temperature or placement produce nuanced variation.

step 8

Cooling and Finishing

Cooling must be gradual to prevent thermal shock.

Once removed from the kiln:

  • Bases are sanded smooth.
  • Each piece is inspected for balance, finish, and surface integrity.

Only pieces that meet aesthetic and structural standards are released.

Handcrafted in Denmark

Ceramics shaped by years of practice, celebrating timeless form, intention, and individuality.