Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about POEMI ceramics—from the materials we use to care, everyday use, shipping, and partnerships.
- Products & raw materials
- Craftsmanship & Natural Variations
- Safety & care
- Shipping & delivery
- Hospitality & Wholesale
- Brand & gifting
Products & raw materials
What are POEMI products?
POEMI products are handcrafted at our ceramics factory in Sibiu, Romania, using a combination of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary production techniques. Every piece is individually shaped, finished, and glazed, giving it its own character and subtle variations in texture and colour.
What materials are POEMI products made from?
Our products are crafted from high-quality stoneware, fired at high temperatures to ensure exceptional strength, durability, and suitability for both everyday home use and professional hospitality environments.
What is stoneware?
Stoneware is a dense ceramic body made from a blend of kaolin, ball clay, feldspar, and quartz. It is fired at high temperatures, typically between 1180°C and 1280°C, resulting in a highly vitrified material with outstanding performance.
Stoneware offers:
- Excellent mechanical strength
- Low water absorption (typically below 3%)
- Exceptional durability for everyday and professional use
Because of these qualities, stoneware is widely used for premium tableware in restaurants, cafés, hotels, and hospitality projects.
What is the difference between the main ceramic materials?
| Feature | Earthenware | Stoneware | Semi-porcelain | Porcelain | Bone China |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Composition | Natural clay | Kaolin, ball clay, feldspar & quartz | Standard industrial ceramic body | Pure kaolin, feldspar & silica | Porcelain with bone ash |
| Firing Temperature | ~1650–2000°F | ~1180–1300°C | ~2150–2300°F | ~1200–1400°C | ~1200–1250°C |
| Water Absorption | High | Very low (<3%) | Very low (~0.5–3%) | Extremely low (<0.5%) | Extremely low (<0.5%) |
| Density | Low | High | Very high | Very high | Very high |
| Appearance | Rustic | Natural, organic | Uniform, bright white | Elegant white | Warm white, translucent |
| Translucency | No | No | Very low | Medium-High | High |
| Mechanical Strength | Low-Medium | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | Good |
| Chip Strength | Low | Good | Excellent | Good | Medium |
| Weight | Medium | Medium-High | Medium | Medium–Light | Very light |
| Level of Industrialization | Low | Medium | Very high | Medium-High | Medium |
Craftsmanship & Natural Variations
Is every product identical?
No. Because every POEMI piece is handcrafted, slight variations in shape, dimensions (±5%), colour, texture, or glaze are to be expected. These variations are part of the beauty and authenticity of handmade ceramics.
Why do colours vary between products?
Each piece is individually glazed by hand. The final appearance is influenced by factors such as glaze consistency, firing temperature, and its position inside the kiln. These natural variables create subtle differences that make every piece unique.
Are the glazes standardized?
POEMI uses reactive and effect glazes, while some collections feature sustainable glazes created from reclaimed stoneware and locally sourced wood ash.As a result, slight variations between production batches and individual pieces are a natural characteristic of our ceramics
Safety & care
Are POEMI products food-safe?
Yes. All glazes are food-safe and comply with applicable standards for food contact. They are free from lead and cadmium.
Are the products dishwasher safe?
Yes. All POEMI products are dishwasher safe.We recommend arranging them carefully inside the dishwasher to prevent direct contact between pieces and minimise the risk of mechanical damage.
Are the products microwave safe?
Yes. Our ceramics are suitable for reheating food and beverages in a microwave oven.
Are the products resistant to high temperatures?
Yes. High-fired stoneware offers excellent resistance to the temperature changes encountered during normal domestic and professional use.
How should I care for handmade ceramics?
- Wash the product before first use
- Avoid knocking pieces against each other
- Remove stains from unglazed surfaces as soon as possible
- Avoid sudden thermal shock (rapid changes between hot and cold)
- Allow hot pieces to cool naturally before washing
For bakeware:
- Always use oven gloves
- Do not use on direct flame or stovetops
- Avoid transferring directly from the refrigerator into a preheated oven
Shipping & delivery
How are the products packed?
Each product is individually wrapped in protective honeycomb paper. The shipping cartons are further protected using recycled cardboard packaging materials to minimise the risk of damage during transport.
Do you ship internationally?
Online orders are currently available only within Romania. For international orders, please contact us at [email protected]. [email protected].
What if my order arrives damaged?
If your order is damaged during transport, please contact us at [email protected] and include photographs of both the damaged product and its packaging. Replacement products will be provided free of charge in accordance with our Terms & Conditions.
How can I check product availability?
Current stock availability is displayed on each product page. For large-volume or custom orders, please contact us directly at [email protected].
Hospitality & Wholesale
Do you work with restaurants and hotels?
Yes. POEMI develops ceramic collections for restaurants, hotels, cafés, and hospitality projects looking for authentic handcrafted tableware.
Is handmade ceramics suitable for professional use?
Absolutely. Our products are designed to combine artisanal aesthetics with the durability and functionality required for professional hospitality environments.
How do I choose the right tableware for my restaurant?
The ideal collection depends on your restaurant concept, menu, plating style, and overall dining experience. Our team will be happy to help you select the most suitable collections, shapes, and sizes.
Can I order custom-made products?
Yes. We welcome bespoke projects for hospitality and interior design clients. Every request is evaluated individually based on design, production volume, and lead time.
Brand & gifting
Why choose handmade ceramics?
Handmade ceramics offer individuality, character, and authenticity. No two pieces are exactly alike, making every table setting feel more personal and meaningful.
Can I give POEMI products as a gift?
Absolutely. Our handcrafted ceramics make thoughtful gifts for anyone who appreciates design, fine food, and timeless craftsmanship.
Didn't find the answer you're looking for?
We're here to help. Get in touch with us at [email protected] or visit our Contact page—we'll be happy to assist you.
