Desert Flat Plates

These handbuilt plates are made from a mix of clay mined in Southern California and desert soil, giving each piece a pale, mineral surface with natural speckling and subtle tonal variation. The clay is intentionally left coarse, so the texture of sand and small mineral inclusions remains visible and tactile. No two plates are identical.
 
The white glaze is made from pine and oak ashes combined with finely ground desert “chalk” foraged in the Mojave Desert. The result is a soft, stony surface with gentle shifts in color, ranging from warm off-white to light ash-grey, with occasional darker markings from minerals in the clay and glaze. The glaze breaks and pools slightly along the edges and surface textures, emphasizing the handmade character of each dish.
 
Each piece is handbuilt using simple stone tools, leaving quiet tool marks and irregular edges that speak to the process rather than hiding it. The forms are intentionally shallow and open, making them ideal for presenting small portions of food. I use these dishes in my classes to serve wild foods, ferments, tastings, snacks, and small composed bites. They’re also well suited for everyday use—olives, sliced fruit, cheeses, condiments, or small side dishes.
 
This current set consists of one larger plate and two smaller dishes, designed to work together as a small serving set or to be used individually. They’re versatile presentation pieces that frame food without overpowering it, and they pair naturally with both rustic and more refined plating.
 
Details

– Clay from Southern California mixed with local desert soil
– White ash glaze made from pine and oak ashes and ground desert chalk (Mojave Desert)
– Handbuilt using stone tools
– Electric kiln fired to cone 6 (2200 °F / 1204 °C)
– Set includes: 1 medium plate + 2 small dishes
– Each piece is unique in shape, texture, and surface variation
 
Larger plate: 4.5 x 7 inches 
Smaller plates: 2.5 x 4 inches
 
Don't forget to read the section about pottery care.
 
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Shipping Information: I use USPS Priority mail for shipping within the US and USPS Priority International mail for international customers. Packages go out three to seven business days from the day of purchase.
 
Priority mail takes two to five days to deliver in the US. International orders may take much longer to arrive.
 
Refunds will be offered if the item is damaged during shipment. Send me and email and photos clearly indicating the extent of damage to the box, packing materials, and item.
 
Either a full refund, exchange, or store credit in the same amount will be made.