Does a 3D-printed mould help when it comes to working with porcelain?

What is porcelain, and why is it such an important material?

Porcelain has a long history and is much more than our grandparents' porcelain figures or precious tableware. You, me, and we all interact with porcelain much more often than we think.  It plays a significant role in our everyday lives.

Porcelain is used more broadly; it can be used in products such as bathroom fixtures, kitchen- and tableware, tiles, flooring, and even electrical insulators.

Our semester project, "Porcelain in Use: Exploring the Material and Its Processing," covered the topic of the material. We delved into the world of porcelain, exploring its applications, production techniques, and the artistry behind its creation. The project taught us to look at porcelain objects differently and with hands-on experience we gained a deeper understanding of porcelain's potential and durability.

For this semester I challenged myself to design a small tea service, comprising a teapot, cups, and a sugar container. My goal was to create pieces that not only look visually intriguing but are also practical for everyday use. Throughout the project, I explored various production techniques, including 3D-printed molds, direct 3D printing with porcelain, and traditional plaster molds. This hands-on experimentation deepened my understanding of porcelain’s materiality and its unique design possibilities. The final pieces feature a geometrical design softened by rounded edges, achieving a balance between aesthetic appeal and functional practicality. Designed without handles, the forms are intentionally shaped for intuitive handling, emphasising tactile engagement and user interaction.

Versum is a thoughtfully crafted collection of objects featuring a jug and cups. Its simplicity and unique shape inspire versatility, allowing the user to savour coffee, tea, or water in a way that elevates everyday moments.