Fresh Out of the Kiln: A Special Firing Full of Color and Renewal
In the handmade pottery process, there’s nothing quite like the moment we open our kiln.
Each firing is a blend of anticipation and excitement, revealing the unique results of carefully glazed and crafted pottery. This latest batch includes a fresh array of ceramic pie plates, exquisite flower-shaped bowls, oil dispensers, and salad serving bowls—each one made with care in our Kentucky studio.
This latest firing features pieces crafted from our signature stoneware clay and glazes, all of which are mixed in-house for strength, durability, and everyday functionality. We use lead-free, non-toxic glazes in high-fire techniques, resulting in our full range of signature color combinations—Blue Mint Green, Amber Blue, Rustic Red, and Golden Amber. Every piece reflects our meticulous, ongoing process of crafting small-batch pottery and functional, beautiful designs. Whether you’re looking for ceramic plates for your coming special gathering, an elegant vase to brighten your table, or a handmade stoneware mug for a morning drink, this kiln load holds something special for every kitchen or table.
Three Angles of the Full Kiln Load
Click Below to Shop the Products
The Story Behind This Handmade Pottery Firing
This firing was more than just a new batch of pots. It marked a significant milestone in our studio’s journey.
For over 20 years, we’ve used the same core materials in our clays and glazes until we learned early last year that some were becoming unavailable. This includes two types of feldspar—a mineral that helps everything melt and bond together properly during firing.
One of them increased in price so dramatically due to global demand in other industries that it was no longer cost-effective to use. The other came from a U.S. mine that closed permanently. And as if that weren’t enough, a tornado destroyed the mine that supplied one of our main clays.
Thankfully, we had just enough materials in reserve to get us through a full year of testing and reformulating. But replacing these essential ingredients wasn’t simple. After dozens of small test batches on sample tiles, we began trying the new glazes on different forms and sizes—and that’s where the real challenge began.
Glazes react differently depending on a piece’s shape, thickness, and where it sits in the kiln. Some areas get hotter than others, and even small changes can dramatically affect the final result. It took months of fine-tuning to get everything just right. Along the way, we also made some subtle improvements to the appearance of the glazes, particularly in the way the green looks in the “Blue Mint Green” glaze combination. Now, the green is more pronounced, with increased color saturation and opacity.
This kiln load is the first full batch produced with our new formulas, and we couldn’t be happier with the results. From the layering of hues to the flow of each glaze, this firing feels like both a return and a new beginning.
Behind the Scenes: Unloading & Packing the New Pottery
Once the kiln cools, about 2 days after firing, the careful process of unloading begins. Every shelf is examined, and each pot is inspected for color and finish, ensuring the highest quality. This firing was significant, and we took the time with each piece to ensure the results matched our expectations.
At Blanket Creek Pottery, we take care to pack each piece sustainably using eco-conscious materials. Every item is carefully wrapped for shipping, and we strive to minimize waste while ensuring your pottery arrives safely. It’s a detail-oriented job, but it means each mug, bowl, or cruet arrives with the same care and attention to detail we put into making it.
As a family-run studio, we believe in crafting pottery that’s not only beautiful but also long-lasting and useful. From dinnerware to soap dispensers, our goal is to create items that enrich your space with warmth, color, and function.
Explore Our Full Collection
These handmade ceramic pieces are not only visually appealing with their vivid and unique colors but also designed for everyday use—microwave-safe, dishwasher-safe, and extremly durable.
We invite you to explore our current selection, fresh from the kiln. Available in limited quantities, these handmade pieces are ideal for both everyday use and special occasions. Whether you're completing a set, starting a collection, or seeking a unique, heirloom-quality gift, you'll find that each item is carefully crafted to bring beauty and functionality to your space.
If you’re interested in learning more about how we make our pottery, visit our How It’s Made and Workshop Gallery pages for a behind-the-scenes look at our process and studio.
