Materials

Ceramic tableware is a timeless choice in homes, restaurants, and hotels around the world. At STORIWARE, we are proud to supply high-quality daily-use ceramics crafted through a precise and controlled manufacturing process. In this article, we’ll walk you through the key steps in how ceramic mugs, plates, and bowls are made — from raw clay to finished, food-safe products. Step 1: Raw Material Preparation Ceramic production begins with the careful selection and mixing of raw materials such as kaolin, feldspar, and quartz. These ingredients are ground and blended into a uniform clay body that has the right plasticity and stability for shaping. Step 2: Molding / Shaping here are several shaping techniques used depending on the type of item:Press Molding (for plates, mugs and cups)Jiggering (for bowls)Slip Casting (for complex shapes )Each method ensures consistency in size and structure Step 3: Drying After shaping, the clay items are left to dry naturally or in controlled drying chambers. This step removes excess moisture and prevents cracking during firing.  At this stage, the product is referred to as a "green body." Step 4: First Firing (Bisque Firing) The dried pieces are fired in a kiln at 800–1000°C. This process hardens the ceramic body, allowing it to handle glazing and decoration. Step 5: Glazing A thin layer of glaze is applied to the bisque-fired item to give it a smooth, glass-like surface. Glazing can be done by dipping, spraying, or brushing. Glaze not only gives color and shine but also provides a waterproof and food-safe surface. Step 6: Second Firing (Glost Firing) The glazed ware is fired again at 1100–1350°C, depending on the type of ceramic (stoneware or porcelain). This strengthens the body and fixes the glaze. Step 7: Decoration (Optional) Decal Transfer PrintingSilkscreen PrintingHand PaintingThese are often fired again at a lower temperature to fuse the design into the glaze. Step 8: Quality Inspection Each piece undergoes thorough inspection:Check for glaze defects (bubbles, pinholes, skips)Shape, size, and weight consistencySound test for cracksDecal alignment and color fidelity  Step 9: Packaging Finished products are packed using protective materials (bubble wrap, honeycomb cardboard, inner boxes) and outer export cartons. Custom packaging is available upon request. Why This Matters Understanding the ceramic production process helps you:Know what to expect in terms of lead timeAppreciate the craftsmanship behind each productCommunicate better when placing custom or bulk orders Work with a Trusted Supplier At STORIWARE, we specialize in OEM & ODM production of daily-use ceramics for international clients. From sourcing raw materials to strict quality control, we ensure every item meets export-grade standards.Contact us today to request samples or discuss your custom project.

When sourcing daily-use ceramic tableware, understanding the quality grades is essential for importers, distributors, and brand owners. At STORIWARE, we believe in transparent standards and long-term cooperation. This article introduces how ceramic products are classified and what you should expect from each grade. Main Quality Grades of Ceramic Tableware In the daily-use ceramics industry, products are generally divided into the following quality levels: 1. First Grade (Grade A / Premium Quality) Also known as "Export Grade", this is the highest quality level.1-1, Smooth surface with no visible defects1-2, Uniform glaze, consistent color1-3, No pinholes, cracks, dark spots, or glaze skips1-4, Passes food safety and lead/cadmium release tests1-5, Suitable for direct retail, supermarkets, or branding useUsage: Export to developed markets (EU, US, Japan), brand customization, retail sales 2. Second Grade (Grade B / Commercial Quality) Acceptable for general wholesale and price-sensitive markets.2-1, Minor visual defects allowed (e.g. small pinholes, slight color shade variation)2-2, No structural damage or sharp edges2-3, May have slight deformation or glaze unevenness, but not affecting usability2-4, Safe for food contactUsage: Discount stores, supermarkets, restaurant supply, promotional use 3. Third Grade (Grade C / Factory Seconds) Lower quality, mainly for non-retail usage or highly price-focused markets.3-1, Visible defects like dark spots, glaze skips, heavy deformation3-2, Rough surface or under-glazed areas3-3, Often sold as clearance or bulk factory stockUsage: Local markets, non-food purposes, decoration, or secondary use Common Quality Inspection Points To ensure quality consistency, we inspect ceramics based on the following aspects: Item Glaze surfaceShape and symmetryColor consistencyBottom polishCracks or chipsPrinting/DecalSound test Inspection Focus Smoothness, pinholes, particlesRoundness, height, flatnessShade uniformity across batchesSmooth base without burrsNone allowed in first-grade productsPosition accuracy, color fidelityClean “ring” when lightly tapped Why Does This Matter? 1,Helps set correct expectations when placing orders2,Allows buyers to choose cost-performance balance based on their market3,Reduces dispute risk during inspection or after delivery4,Builds long-term trust with reliable manufacturers Our Commitment At STORIWARE, we follow a strict internal quality control process based on international export standards. Whether you’re purchasing for a brand, a chain store, or promotional campaigns, we can offer grade A to grade B solutions to meet your needs.Feel free to contact us if you'd like to see samples or learn more about our quality inspection reports.

When customers receive a ceramic mug, ceramic bowl, or a set of fine porcelain dinnerware, they often ask, "What material is this made from?" While many recognize the term "ceramic" or "porcelain," these are general terms that refer to a wide range of materials. In fact, ceramic materials vary significantly and are classified into several subcategories, each with its own unique qualities.At our company, we primarily work with stoneware , new bone china , and dolomite , each of which offers distinct characteristics suitable for various types of ceramic products Common Ceramic Materials We Use Stoneware  – Also Known as Mid-Temperature Porcelain Stoneware is a durable, thick ceramic that is perfect for large items like mugs, bowls, and plates. Fired at a mid-range temperature of about 1100°C to 1200°C, it has a medium absorption rate of approximately 5% to 10%, making it ideal for vibrant reactive glaze ceramics. This material is sturdy, slightly rustic in texture, and perfect for everyday dinnerware and custom ceramic products like personalized plates and mugs.New Bone ChinaNew bone china is a high-quality ceramic material that is known for its fine texture, white, translucent appearance, and high strength. It is fired at temperatures between 1200°C to 1300°C and has a very low absorption rate of less than 0.5%, making it lightweight and durable. It is ideal for creating premium fine bone china dinnerware, elegant tea sets, and custom printed ceramic mugs. This material offers a sleek, polished finish and is commonly used for luxury and high-end products.Dolomite Dolomite is a lightweight and fragile ceramic material, often used in creating hand-painted ceramics. It is fired at a lower temperature range of 1000°C to 1100°C, and has a higher absorption rate of over 10%, which makes it suitable for decorative and artistic pieces but not for heavy-duty use. Dolomite’s light texture and smooth surface make it perfect for custom hand-painted products and decorative ceramic pieces. It is widely used for personalized ceramics and custom decorative items. Material Comparison Table: Material Firing Temperature (°C) Water Absorption Features Ideal Products New Bone China 1200–1300 Fine texture, translucent, lightweight, durable Premium dinnerware, elegant mugs, tea sets Stoneware 1100–1200 5–10% Sturdy, rustic, vibrant glazes, mid-temperature Everyday dinnerware, custom plates, mugs, bowls Dolomite  1000–1100 10% Lightweight, fragile, perfect for hand-painting Hand-painted ceramics, decorative pieces, custom mugs Why These Materials? Each ceramic material is chosen based on the product type and intended use. For example, stoneware is perfect for making large, sturdy items such as plates, bowls, and mugs, while new bone china is used for creating sophisticated pieces like fine dinnerware sets and elegant mugs. Dolomite, being lightweight and easy to break, is perfect for custom hand-painted products that don’t require heavy-duty use but need delicate artistry. Depending on the glaze and firing process, these materials offer unique textures and finishes, making them suitable for a wide range of designs.Our commitment is to provide custom ceramic products made from the best materials, ensuring high-quality, durable, and beautiful ceramic dinnerware for every customer.