about Porcelain
Porcelain production spread from China into Japan about 400 years ago. Fifty years later, Japanese porcelain was being exported to Europe. It is no surprise that Japan’s porcelain industry then began to grow rapidly. There was a sudden growth in porcelain making technology as well. When compared with the long history of pottery, Japanese porcelain evolved very quickly in a short period of time. Nowadays you will find many varied types of porcelain wares all over Japan.
Porcelain is made from stone and fired at a high temperature (1,300-1,400 digress Celsius / 2,370-2,550 degrees Fahrenheit). Because of this, it absorbs far less water and is easier to handle than pottery. There is also less risk of food odors and stains. This all makes porcelain ready to use immediately; no need for special sealing treatments to start using your piece.
Many types of porcelain can be used in dishwashers and microwave ovens. HOWEVER, we do not recommend using either with your porcelain. Dishwashers have a risk of chipping or cracking your piece because of the forceful water streams used. Handwashing is a safer option and is recommended. Microwaves, on the other hand, may heat your porcelain to a dangerous level. Many types of porcelain cannot endure these high temperatures. At the very least, using a microwave may cause your piece to become too hot to handle. It’s best to simply avoid using dishwashers and microwaves with your porcelain for these reasons.
Handling
Before First Use
Wash your piece with mild soap and a soft sponge.
Regular Care
If you’re putting hot food into your porcelain, it’s a good idea to warm the piece in lukewarm water ahead of time to avoid the shock of sudden temperature changes.
Likewise, if you’re serving very cold foods, cool your piece with colder water beforehand.
Hot dishes will stay hot, and cold dishes will stay cold.
Washing your Piece
You can wash your porcelains with a soft sponge and mild dish soap. Dry them well.
About “Kannyu”
Due to different expansion rates between the glaze and base material, porcelain has fine cracks called “Kannyu”. Much like crazes in pottery, you may come to enjoy and appreciate the unique kannyu of your piece!
Handling Stains
Tea and other stains may appear on the surface of porcelain after use. You can try to remove the stain by using a non-chlorine bleach, and then rinsing well with lukewarm water. However, avoid using bleach if your porcelain contains gold, silver, or painted color, as they will fade and change. Also please leave the bleach on your piece for as short a time as possible.