Valentine Clays has developed a pioneering porcelain clay that combines exceptional wheel performance with impressive strength and durability.
A porcelain that welcomes every maker, the new Bistro Porcelain represents a significant step forward in product development.
Opening up new opportunities for studio potters, Bistro Porcelain is 38 per cent stronger than other porcelain products offered by Valentine Clays and can be re-thrown repeatedly.
With superior resistance to thermal shock while delivering a highly responsive throwing experience Bistro Porcelain offers experienced porcelain makers the freedom to push artistic boundaries, even when the need for finesse and resilience in the toughest kitchen conditions is required.
Engineered with a high level of alumina, this revolutionary product provides added structure and stability from the very first throw on the wheel, becoming a quiet partner in the process and offering greater control and confidence throughout forming, drying and firing.
Hannah Ault, CEO of Valentine Clays, said: “We designed Bistro Porcelain in close collaboration with artisan makers to create a porcelain clay that delivers both performance and elegance.
“The formulation delivers exceptional strength and chip resistance without making any compromises on the classic style that porcelain is known for. It’s also smooth, stable, and very responsive, offering an approachable throwing experience even for potters who have never felt confident using porcelain before.”
The smooth workability and high re-usability of Bistro Porcelain creates less waste in the studio, while full vitrification at 1190°C supports lower firing temperatures than other traditional porcelain clays.
Hannah added: “This re-usability offers significant sustainability benefits, as it means waste is significantly reduced. Engineered with a high level of alumina, Bistro Porcelain delivers added strength and structure right from the wheel. That means better control, improved stability during forming, and increased resistance to thermal shock throughout the making and firing process, giving makers extra confidence at every stage.”
The launch of Bistro Porcelain reflects Valentine Clays’ continued commitment to research and development, building on decades of close collaboration with the ceramic community.
Based in the heart of the Potteries for 47 years, the family-run manufacturer has earned a reputation for producing high-quality clays shaped by the real-world needs of makers.
Bistro Porcelain follows the successful launch of LoStone, a pioneering low-fire stoneware introduced last year, as part of the company’s strategy to support innovation and growth across the artisan ceramics sector.
Hannah, who serves as the President of national trade body, Ceramics UK, said the investment in both Bistro Porcelain and LoStone is part of its ongoing strategy to fuel growth in the artisan sector, building on Stoke-on-Trent’s world-renowned expertise in ceramics.
Alongside an active programme of research and development, the company has also invested in a new online retail facility at www.valentineclays.co.uk to offer clients a seamless order service, backed up with the reassurance of dedicated customer support and advice.
Valentine Clays are offering people the chance to see Bistro Porcelain being made in the factory and a wheel session to try it out. Find tickets HERE.
