From Earth to Art: The Artisanal Process of Seyma Ates
Our handcrafted stoneware process ensures that every form bears the marks of a quiet, patient journey. Raw earth, shaped by hand and stilled by time, becomes a unique vessel for daily life. It is the beauty of slow craft, reimagined as a companion for your most meaningful moments.
The Heart of Our Craft
Every piece begins its journey in a rooftop studio in Istanbul. In this dedicated space, the rush of the outside world fades, allowing for a focus on the rhythmic turning of the wheel and the slow transformation of the earth. Quality here is a deliberate dialogue between the maker and the material—where nothing is rushed and every movement has a purpose.
Our Handcrafted Stoneware Process: The Foundation
The integrity of every handcrafted object is inseparable from the earth it is made of. The process begins with the selection of premium Sibelco stoneware, a material chosen for its exceptional strength and the rich, dense texture it achieves within the fire. It is upon this foundation that color and character are introduced through Mayco glazes—selected not only for their visual depth but for their strict adherence to being lead-free and food-safe.
The Language of Form
Shortcuts find no place here. Every object takes shape individually, transitioning from raw clay to form through the rhythmic precision of the wheel or the organic texture of hand-pinching. From hand-attached handles to meticulously applied celestial details, the process remains a slow refinement where every curve carries the quiet character of the human touch.
The Handcrafted Stoneware Drying Process
Once the form is refined through trimming, a crucial drying stage follows. Every piece rests on the shelves to slowly surrender its moisture, reaching the delicate ‘bone-dry’ state. This patient wait ensures structural stability, refining our handcrafted stoneware process as it prepares each piece for its first controlled transformation within the kiln’s steady, radiating heat.
Trial by Fire
Permanence is forged in the kiln. Through high-temperature firings reaching up to 1220°C, raw stoneware is transformed into a dense, durable vessel. This thermal alchemy ensures that every object is not only a work of art but a companion built to last through a lifetime of rituals.
The Final Shine
The journey concludes with a touch of light for select designs. For collections where gold is the guiding element, a third firing fuses real gold luster onto the surface. Containing 10% pure gold, this handcrafted detail adds a timeless elegance to the organic texture of the stoneware—bringing celestial light into the palm of the hand.
Witness the Transformation
A lump of clay, a journey of patience, and three trips through the fire. Experience the complete evolution of the signature collection and witness how celestial wonders are brought into the palm of the hand.
Our handcrafted stoneware process transforms raw earth into timeless forms. Each piece is a deliberate evolution of texture and light, shaped to accompany your most quiet moments.
Moments from the Studio
Beyond the steps of production lies the daily rhythm of the studio—a space where raw materials, focused energy, and time converge. These are the quiet moments captured between the wheel and the fire.
Below, you can witness the visual journey of our handcrafted stoneware process from raw earth to finished form.
Every curve is a story of a thousand intentional touches.
Own a piece of the journey. Each unique object is a reflection of our handcrafted stoneware process—shaped with patience to become a companion for your daily life. Explore the collection and bring the beauty of slow craft into your home.
Explore the collection on our [Etsy Shop] and bring the beauty of slow craft into your home.
