The Art of Making Fine Bone China

The Making of Bone China

At Richard Brendon, every piece of our Bone China begins life as a refined blend of naturally occurring Calcium Phosphate Mineral, Kaolin, Ball clay and Mineral Fluxes. This is a recipe perfected in Stoke-on-Trent over centuries and still unmatched for its strength, translucency and elegance.

The process is meticulous and time honoured, guided by the hands of expert craftspeople.

Clay Preparation 

The process begins with clay preparation. Filter cake from the press is rehydrated and blended with water to create a smooth slip. Meanwhile, shredded filter cake is carefully processed through a pug mill, transforming it into perfectly conditioned clay rolls—uniform, consistent, and ready for forming.

Forming 

Moving downstairs in the factory, the shaping process begins with a variety of forming techniques: Slip casting is used for more intricate shapes. Liquid bone china is poured into plaster moulds where it slowly sets to form the body of the piece. Timing is crucial. Too long and the walls are too thick. Too short and the piece lacks strength.

Semi-automatic throwing forms clay onto moulds for consistent pieces. Roller-head machines (often referred to as the “big cup plant”) shape larger cups.

Fettling and Sponging - Finishing Touches by Hand

Once removed from the mould, each piece is fettled, sponged and smoothed by hand. This is where human touch matters most. Every curve is refined, every edge perfected. No shortcuts. Just quiet and measured craftsmanship.

First Firing

Pieces are kiln fired at an extreme temperature and this bisque firing solidifies the form and prepares it for glazing. The result is chalky and porous and ready to receive its luminous glaze.

Glazing and Second Firing

A silky transparent glaze is applied to the bisque body. When fired again at temperatures approaching 1,000°C, the glaze vitrifies and bonds to the body, creating that unmistakable glossy finish. The high firing also gives Bone China its exceptional strength while preserving its refined lightness.

Decoration

Depending on the design, decoration is applied by hand or using screen printing techniques. Metallic details, including 24 karat gold or platinum as seen on our Reflect or Line pieces, are delicately applied by hand or transfer before undergoing a final firing at 1060°C to set the finish with lasting brilliance. This final step ensures durability while maintaining the brilliance of the detail.

Inspection and Finishing Touches

Each piece is inspected multiple times for clarity, form and finish. Only the finest pieces make it through, ready to be sent to homes, hotels, and restaurants around the world.

The result is Bone China that is not only beautiful to look at but a joy to use every day. Lightweight, strong and quietly luxurious, created with intention for Finer Dining Every Day.

Take a look behind the scenes in our video here.