Frequently Asked Questions
On this page, I've compiled the most frequently asked questions from my in-person and online students, as well as details about the tableware in my atelier. If you don't find the answer to your question, please get in touch, and I'll get back to you as soon as possible. Warm regards.
FAQs
Here are the frequently asked questions. You can also ask me directly by sending me a message on WhatsApp.
What are porcelain painting classes like?
1. What is porcelain painting?
Porcelain painting is an artistic technique that uses special pigments to decorate porcelain objects (plates, cups, vases, etc.), which are baked at high temperatures to permanently fix the design and give it a durable and shiny finish.
2. Do I need prior experience to take the classes?
No, most of our classes are designed for both complete beginners and students with prior experience who wish to refine their technique. We offer different levels and tailored projects.
3. What type of paints are used?
We use special porcelain paints, which are made with ceramic pigments. These paints are diluted and applied in thin layers, and then require a high-temperature firing process to vitrify and permanently adhere to the porcelain.
4. What kind of porcelain pieces can I paint?
You can paint a wide variety of objects: plates, cups, platters, vases, tiles, porcelain jewelry, decorative boxes, and much more.
5. Are the painted pieces suitable for food use?
Yes, once properly baked, the pieces are usually food-safe. Always check with your instructor to confirm the specifications of the paints used.
6. How long are the classes? How often are they held?
The duration and frequency vary depending on the type of course (intensive, weekly, workshop). Please consult our class schedule for available options.
7. What will I learn in the classes?
You will learn about material selection, design and transfer techniques, paint application, using different brushes, color mixing, preparing for firing, and much more. The specific content will depend on the level and focus of the course.
8. Is there a maximum number of students per class?
To ensure personalized attention, we maintain small groups with a maximum of 6 students per class.
9. Do you offer private lessons or personalized workshops?
Yes, we offer private lessons and live online classes with a maximum of 6 people. We also have special recorded lessons so you can learn at your own pace.
What is hand-painted porcelain?
Here are some frequently asked questions about hand-painted porcelain that will help you better understand this art:
1. What is hand-painted porcelain?
Hand-painted porcelain is an art form in which designs and decorations are applied directly onto porcelain pieces using special paints and fine brushes. Once painted, the piece is fired at high temperatures in a kiln, which fuses the paint with the porcelain glaze, making the design durable and long-lasting.
2. How do you clean hand-painted porcelain?
Most hand-painted porcelain pieces can be gently cleaned with warm water and mild soap. It's important to avoid using abrasive cleaners, scouring pads, or dishwashers, especially for pieces with gold or platinum details, as these could damage the paint or metallic finishes. Hand washing is always recommended.
3. Is hand-painted porcelain dishwasher and microwave safe?
Generally, it is not recommended. Although baking sets the paint, the extreme heat and harsh detergents in dishwashers can, over time, dull or deteriorate the designs, especially those with metallic embellishments (gold, platinum). Similarly, metallic embellishments make the pieces unsuitable for microwave use, as they can cause sparks and damage both the piece and the appliance.
4. How can I tell if a piece of porcelain is hand-painted or a decal?
Look closely at the details. Hand-painted designs often show slight variations in brushstroke thickness, small imperfections that give them character, and often a subtle texture. Decals, on the other hand, are perfectly uniform, may have a slightly raised edge, and sometimes you can see very small dots (similar to printing) if you look at them with a magnifying glass.
5. How long does it take to hand-paint a piece of porcelain?
The time required varies greatly depending on the complexity of the design, the size of the piece, and the artist's skill. A simple design might take a few hours, while an intricate piece with multiple layers of color and fine details could require days or even weeks of work. Additionally, drying times between layers and firing in the kiln must be taken into account.
What are the delivery times and what happens if a part is damaged?
The art of porcelain teaches us patience. Pieces in stock are dispatched within a few business days, while custom orders require careful attention to the kiln firing times and successive firings detailed on the product page. We pack each vitrified jewel with an exceptionally protective system to ensure its safety during transit. However, if the piece is damaged in transit, please contact us within 24 hours of receipt with a photo of the packaging, and we will resolve the issue by sending you a replacement or processing a refund.
How is the durability of pigments guaranteed in utilitarian pieces?
Thanks to the technical process of the third firing, the mineral pigments and oxides fuse at over 780°C, molecularly integrating into the porcelain glaze. This ensures that the designs will not fade or disappear over time. Liquid gold (18 or 24 karat) applied with a nib is also vitrified. To preserve its enduring brilliance for generations, we recommend handwashing the pieces with a soft sponge and completely avoiding the use of microwaves (as gold is a real metal) and abrasive dishwashers.
The Virtual Atelier
If you want to go a step further and join a group of people from all over the world eager to express their inner world through their brush, you could start by visiting the Virtual Atelier page to become part of this select group.