Stoneware Tableware: Timeless And Versatile

Stoneware tableware is a popular choice for those seeking a rustic, yet timeless look for their dining table. Crafted from natural clay and fired at high temperatures, stoneware is known for its durability and ruggedness. Its handmade nature and natural aesthetic elevate any dining experience, from simple weeknight dinners to special occasions. With a wide range of colours and designs available, from classic neutrals to bold hues, stoneware tableware allows for endless customisation to suit your unique style. Stoneware is also versatile in terms of care, with many pieces being dishwasher, microwave, oven, and freezer safe. Whether you're a home cook or a professional chef, stoneware tableware is a great option for those seeking both functionality and style.

Stoneware dinnerware sets

Stoneware is a popular choice for dinnerware due to its durability and aesthetic appeal. It is a type of ceramic that is fired at high temperatures, resulting in a strong and chip-resistant material. Stoneware dinnerware sets come in a variety of colours, styles, and price points, making them a versatile option for those looking to elevate their dining experience.

When shopping for stoneware dinnerware sets, it is important to consider the size of the set, the number of place settings, and any additional pieces that may be included, such as serving bowls or platters. Here are some options available on the market:

Zanzibar 20-Piece Stoneware Dinnerware Set

This set, service for four, is a great option for those seeking a complete dining solution. It offers a balance of style and functionality, with a sophisticated design that is sure to impress. The set includes dinner plates, salad plates, bowls, and mugs, providing everything needed for a four-person meal.

Stone Lain Jessica 12-Piece Round Dinnerware Set

For a more compact option, the Stone Lain Jessica set offers a 12-piece collection in a taupe colour. This set is perfect for everyday use, providing a classic and elegant look for your table. The set includes dinner plates, salad plates, and bowls, service for four.

Corelle Stoneware 16-Piece Dinnerware Set

The Corelle Stoneware set is a great choice for those who want a mix of style and convenience. This 16-piece set, service for four, comes in a stylish oatmeal colour and is both dishwasher and microwave-safe. The set includes dinner plates, side plates, cereal bowls, and mugs.

Stone Lain Lauren 16-Piece Round Dinnerware Set

Available in a range of colours, including light grey, off-white, green, and charcoal, the Lauren set offers a modern and sleek look. This 16-piece set includes dinner plates, salad plates, bowls, and mugs, service for four. It is a great option for those who want a contemporary feel for their dining experience.

Blue Garden 16-Piece Hand Painted Stoneware Dinnerware Set

For those who want a more unique and artistic set, the Blue Garden collection is a beautiful choice. This 16-piece set, service for four, features a hand-painted design that adds a touch of charm to your table. The set includes dinner plates, salad plates, bowls, and mugs.

When choosing a stoneware dinnerware set, consider your personal style, the number of place settings required, and any additional serving pieces that may be needed. Stoneware is a durable and attractive option that can elevate your dining experience and is built to last.

Stoneware for rustic tablescapes

Stoneware is a great choice for tableware, especially if you're going for a rustic tablescape. It's a type of ceramic that's more rustic than its polished ceramic counterparts, making it perfect for a casual dining aesthetic.

When choosing stoneware for your table, consider the silhouette. For a modern look, opt for clean lines and angles, but if you want to create a rustic, artisanal effect, choose pieces with free-formed rims and textured exteriors. You can also mix and match colours to create a unique collection. Neutrals like white, grey, and natural shades pair well with different table linens, while bolder colours like blue, green, and red can be used as statement pieces.

Stoneware is also incredibly durable. It's made from natural clay that's fired at a high temperature, making it extra durable and giving it a natural look that tends to make food look more appealing. Many stoneware sets are dishwasher, oven, microwave, and freezer safe, making them easy to care for and maintain.

• East Fork 7-Piece You're-All-Set Set: This set offers a rustic design with a comprehensive collection of seven pieces, including mugs, bowls, plates, and a cake plate. You can choose from a range of core shades like rustic Morrel and timeless Eggshell, or opt for limited-edition seasonal glazes.
• Casafina Modern Classic Ceramic Dinnerware: This collection combines a crisp, clean shape with classic stoneware details like a matte glaze, creating a modern look with a rustic flex. The set includes pasta or salad bowls, salad plates, and dinner plates, with additional pieces available in ramen, grain, and ice cream bowls.
• West Elm Kanto Stoneware Dinnerware: This collection features handmade pieces with uneven edges, textured exteriors, and delicate footings. The reactive glazes speckle and crack differently on each piece, ensuring your dinnerware is one of a kind. The set includes small bowls, pasta bowls, dinner plates, and salad plates in a range of neutral and moody colours.
• Pottery Barn Dinnerware Set: Pottery Barn is known for its classic, timeless aesthetic, and the Nico dinnerware set is no exception. This stoneware collection features a universal white glaze with hints of grey and brown, allowing it to easily pair with other pieces. The set includes dinner plates, salad plates, and soup bowls, and is both dishwasher and microwave safe.

With its durability, natural look, and rustic charm, stoneware is an excellent choice for creating a warm and inviting tablescape.

Stoneware for modern tablescapes

Stoneware is a great option for modern tablescapes, offering both durability and a relaxed, handmade aesthetic. With its natural look and feel, stoneware can elevate your dining experience and make your food look even more appealing. Here are some tips and ideas for choosing stoneware for your modern tablescape:

Choose the Right Silhouette

The silhouette of your stoneware can help create a modern look. Opt for clean lines and angles if you want a contemporary feel. Alternatively, go for free-formed rims if you prefer an artisanal effect.

Select a Complementary Colour

When it comes to colour, neutrals like white, grey, and natural shades are versatile and pair well with various table linens. If you want to make a statement, consider bolder colours like blue, green, or red.

Consider Your Care Routine

Dishwasher-safe stoneware sets are easy to maintain and ideal for everyday use. Additionally, look for microwave, oven, and freezer-safe options if you want the convenience of using your stoneware for various purposes.

Mix and Match

You don't have to stick to just one colour or style. Mix and match different stoneware pieces to create a unique and personalised tablescape. Combine complementary colours and profiles for a choose-your-own-adventure tablescape.

Curate a Comprehensive Collection

When building your stoneware collection, consider the pieces you need based on your dining habits. If you frequently eat pasta, look for sets with pasta bowls. If you're a cereal lover, ensure you have cereal bowls in your collection.

Embrace Handmade Imperfections

Stoneware often features subtle irregularities, adding to its charm. Handcrafted pieces may have unique differences in shape, size, and glaze, making each piece one of a kind. Embrace these imperfections as they bring life to your tableware.

Seek Out Versatile Designs

Opt for versatile stoneware designs that can transition between casual and formal settings. Choose timeless pieces that can be mixed and matched with existing items in your collection or paired with other lines for a unique look.

Stoneware care and maintenance

Stoneware is a type of clay fired at extremely high temperatures, making it durable enough for everyday use. It is also non-porous, which means it can distribute heat evenly and is less prone to chipping than other materials.

Care and Maintenance

Before First Use

If your stoneware is new, it is recommended to season it before using it. To do this, apply a coating of vegetable oil to the interior surface and bake it at around 200 degrees for 15 minutes. This will create a stick-free piece of cookware.

Cleaning

There are two methods for cleaning stoneware: a simple clean after each use, and a deeper clean to be done once a week. For the simple clean, use a nylon scraper to remove food particles, then rinse the stoneware under warm water. Do not use soap, as this can ruin the seasoning. For a deeper clean, mix together 1/2 cup of baking soda and 3 tablespoons of water to form a paste. Coat the stoneware's cooking surface with this paste and let it sit for 15-20 minutes, then scrape and rinse.

It is important to always bring your stoneware to room temperature before cleaning to avoid thermal shock, which can cause cracking and chipping. Do not use citrus-based cleaners or metal pads, as these can damage the exterior gloss.

Dishwasher and Microwave Use

If your stoneware is glazed, it may be dishwasher-safe. However, this will remove any seasoning. Stoneware is also susceptible to thermal shock when placed in the dishwasher, so it is recommended to bring it to room temperature first. Some stoneware may be labelled as microwave-safe, but use caution as there is a risk of trace metals or other materials in the paint absorbing microwave energy and causing damage.

Oven Use

Stoneware is oven-safe, but avoid placing it in the oven before preheating, as this can cause it to crack or break. Do not put empty stoneware in the oven, and avoid extreme temperature changes.

Refrigerator Use

Stoneware can be stored in the refrigerator, but it should be at room temperature before placing it inside to avoid thermal shock.

Tips

• If your stoneware has a matte glaze, it may be susceptible to scratches from flatware.
• Always read the care instructions provided by the manufacturer.
• If your stoneware has lost its seasoning or has a thick layer of seasoning that is beginning to flake, you can use the self-cleaning function on your oven to restore it. However, this is not recommended by manufacturers and should be done at your own risk.

Stoneware shapes and sizes

Stoneware tableware comes in a variety of shapes and sizes. The size and shape of the plates you choose should depend on your needs. For example, if you eat a lot of pasta, you may want to opt for a set that includes pasta bowls. If you're a big fan of breakfast cereal, you might prefer a set that includes cereal bowls.

The size of the set is also an important consideration. If you're a family of five but the set only caters to four people, you'll want to make sure you can purchase an additional place setting to complete your collection.

When it comes to the aesthetic of your stoneware, you may want to consider the silhouette. For a modern look, choose dishes with clean lines and angles. If you're after a more artisanal effect, look for free-formed rims.

The colour of your stoneware tableware is also important. Neutral colours such as white, grey or natural shades will pair well with a variety of table linens. Bold colours like blue, green and red can act as a statement piece.

Finally, you'll want to think about the care your stoneware will need. Dishwasher-safe sets are simple to maintain. Stoneware with a matte glaze can be susceptible to scratches from flatware, so you may prefer to opt for a glossy glaze or a darker colour to hide any marks.

Frequently asked questions