THE SANTO ATELIER Wabi-Sabi Matte Grip Coffee Cup Tea Cup

This cup features a combination of slip coating and a matte glaze. ● Slip Coating: The surface of the cup is covered with a light Blue-gray slip. This technique not only conceals the original impurities of the clay but also creates a unique textural feel. ● Matte Texture: After high-temperature firing, the surface exhibits a rough, granular texture similar to rocks or weathered walls. It feels warm and smooth to the touch, not slippery, and offers good anti-slip and heat insulation properties. ● Color Layers: Ochre-brown speckles from the underlying clay show through the Blue-gray base color. This irregular texture, akin to "kiln transformation," gives each cup unique visual tension, as if it were an antique object weathered by time. Instructions for Use - Slip Matte Cup: This slip matte cup is more than just a practical daily ware; it's a handcrafted piece that requires care. Due to its special material and surface texture, proper use and maintenance will extend its lifespan and make the cup more refined with use. "Cup Opening" Treatment Before First Use: For newly acquired slip cups, it is recommended to perform an "opening" treatment to enhance water resistance and remove any earthy smell: ● Rice Slurry Soaking Method: Cook a pot of thick rice slurry water using glutinous rice. Once boiling, turn to low heat and place the cup in cold water. Continue to simmer for 10–20 minutes. Allow it to cool naturally. If you smell rice aroma instead of an earthy odor, the process is complete. This method creates a natural protective layer inside the cup, reducing the risk of water seepage and staining. ● Clean Water Soaking Method: Alternatively, you can submerge the cup completely in clean water for 24 hours, then gently wipe the inner wall with a soft cloth. This helps to stabilize the clay body structure. Daily Use Precautions: ● Avoid sudden temperature changes: Earthenware has a lower density body, making it prone to cracking due to thermal expansion and contraction. Do not immediately rinse a cup that held hot tea under cold water, or pour boiling water into a cup just taken from the refrigerator. ● Use harsh acidic or alkaline cleaners with caution: The porous surface of the slip coating can easily absorb odors and pigments. It is recommended to use a neutral detergent with a soft sponge for cleaning. Avoid using steel wool or hard brushes to prevent scratching the glaze or damaging the texture. ● Avoid prolonged storage of liquids: Especially avoid storing acidic liquids such as vinegar, soy sauce, or fruit juice, as they may penetrate the clay body, causing staining or residual odors. Wash and dry thoroughly immediately after use. Cleaning and Storage Recommendations: ● Always air dry upside down after washing: Due to the thick walls and strong water absorption, after washing, the cup should be placed upside down in a well-ventilated area to ensure complete drying and prevent mold. ● Avoid stacking: To prevent chipping of the rim or wear on the base, it is recommended to store them separately or use coasters as dividers. If stacking is necessary, place a soft cloth or silicone mat between the rims. ● Regular "cup nurturing": After long-term use, the cup body will gradually develop a natural patina from tea infusion, resulting in a warmer color and a more delicate feel. These are the unique "traces of time" of handmade pottery and do not need to be deliberately removed. Handcrafted Marks: Each cup is made by hand on a potter's wheel, glazed by hand, and fired at a high temperature of 1240°C. Therefore, there will be unique variations in the subtle curves of the shape, the lines of the spout's tip, and the flow and thickness distribution of the matte glaze. Due to the influence of handcrafting and high-temperature kiln firing, the rim may not be perfectly round. During high-temperature firing, natural trace amounts of iron in the clay may cause small black spots or iron flecks to appear on the glaze. The base of the bowl and the foot ring are polished by hand, maintaining an unglazed, bare clay state. The edges of the base are carefully polished. Minor marks from hand-trimming and a stable, rough feel are normal. Each handcrafted mark is its unique soul. If you prefer perfectly symmetrical, flawless industrial products, please consider your purchase carefully.