Rachel Barker Nuts and Bolts

There is great beauty in simplicity – but achieving this means every quality must be just right. There can be no hiding behind fussy details.

Many years ago, when we first developed our ceramics we recognised that getting the very core qualities right were key to creating a beautiful product. Finding the correct clay was central to this. It needed to be tough enough to cope with everyday usage whilst also looking stunningly beautiful in its own right.

We eventually sourced a clay which is made in Stoke on Trent using raw materials from around the UK (I think only its Felspar comes from Norway). It is a high fired earthenware so it is robust for using everyday, and it’s fine to put in the dishwasher, but it should be treated with love and care. We do not recommend putting it in a microwave.

We love the feel of this clay, its warm, creamy whiteness, which marries perfectly with the designs and shapes we make, and their subtle colours are enhanced by the clear glaze.

“All our ceramics start as things we need in the kitchen or around the house. I jot down ideas and sketches then make them up in the workshop so we can try them out for ourselves, I think this is a crucial part of the design process and surprisingly some designers leave it out. Most importantly its about making designs and shapes that work well with food.

It is lovely when we hear that our customers really relish having our ceramics at home. Hearing someone say “I have to have my coffee in a Rachel Barker mug!” makes us feel were are doing the right thing – simple enjoyment, it doesn’t get better than that.