Baker of Fine Ceramic Confections
Frequently Asked Questions
Here you'll find answers to many of your questions. If you don't find the answer you're looking for, please feel free to Contact Me.
Why does it take so long to get my Ceramic Confection?
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A majority of my pieces are slip cast from my molds, many from vintage molds. So I'm often starting from "mud" . Once poured the piece has to be cleaned. This means I need to clean off seams lines and smooth the piece, carefully. It's only hardened mud at this point. When the cleaning is complete, the piece is fired in the kiln for over 7 hours. It takes another 7 to 10 hours for it to cool. Once cool I can design and paint the piece. Each color is applied four times, drying thoroughly between coats. Then the dimensional glaze is applied and allowed to dry. Next, any pieces that need to be fused are set in place. Finally any roses, flowers and leaves are attached. (Roses, flowers and leaves are made earlier by hand and fired separately.) When everything is dry, two coats of overglaze is brushed on. Once the overglaze is dry the piece is fired again. Cooled again. Now it's done! However, the fireing process is unpredictable and piece can fail at this stage for unknown reasons. If that happens, I go back and start all over again. The 8 to 10 weeks allows me time for this process, maybe twice. I do reserve the right to take longer because I want to make sure I send you the best I can do! I will always let you know if the status of your order changes. And you are always welcome to contact me for an update. If you need your order for a specific date, just let me know and I will do my best to get it to you in time.
Is the color I see true?

To the best of my ability, yes. ​Although I do my best to make sure that the color images on my web site are accurate, due to monitor variations, please be aware the images shown may not reflect an exact match of the actual color.
If you need to be sure of a color Contact Me and I will be happy to work with you. I can send you samples of glazes, or you can send me a sample of the color you need, and I'll do my best to find the closest glaze color.
Do you ship outside the U.S.?
I can indeed ship internationally, hoever it is expensive. I ship FedEx and often the shipping is more than the piece. Please understand this is out of my control and is based on weight. Because my pieces are fragile a certain amout of packing is required to make sure it arrinves in one piece and this can increase the size and weight of the shipped package. I can suggest checking with My American Shipper as they have a system in place to help make international shipping less expensive. You can learn more here.
Can you create a special piece for a special occasion?
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Yes! If you would like a special piece for a special occasion or gift, please Contact Me. Not only can I create a unique and special piece just for you I can add an inscription as well. This means that I can add a sentiment, making the piece extra special. Whether for a wedding, anniversary, birth or holiday, I can make a Ceramic Confection that will be an instant heirloom that will be cherished for years to come.
Can I add an inscription to one of the pieces you offer here on this website?
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Sure! The only pieces that cannot have an inscription added are the smaller pieces, as there just isn't enough room. For more information go to Personal Inscriptions.
Can I Use your teapots, etc.?
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Yes! All of my Ceramic Confections, except for Keepsake Photo Plates, are food and water safe. I use only non-toxic under and over glazes. So by all means use my pieces!
How do I care for my Ceramic Confection?
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The best way to care for my Ceramic Confections is to hand wash only. The handmade roses, flowers and leaves and be fragile, so handle with care. The detergent use in dishwashers is harsh and can cause the glazes to fade. I suggest you do not microwave.
I don't live too far away, can I come pick up my piece?
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If you live in or near the Riverside, CA area I will be happy to meet you and save you the shipping cost. Just contact me before you place your order and I will make sure you are not charged shipping and I will make arrangements for the delivery of your piece.
Can you add a photo to your pieces?
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I can add a full color photo to decorative pieces only. Photo embellished pieces are not food and water safe. That being said, adding a photo to a plate can be a wonderful gift!
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Do you teach?
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Yes! If you are in or are near the Riverside, CA area, please Contact Me. I will be happy to discuss the details with you.
What is that number on the bottom of the piece?
Each Ceramic Confection is signed and numbered. The number tells me when it was made, the glazes used and who I sold it to. Even though I recreate most of these pieces, and because they are all created by hand, one at a time, no two are exactly alike. This makes each Ceramic Confection unique and original!