A New Standard of Strength, Durability and Wheel Performance
We’re proud to introduce Bistro Porcelain a pioneering porcelain clay body that combines exceptional wheel performance with outstanding strength and durability.
Developed in close collaboration with artisan makers, Bistro Porcelain represents a significant step forward in our porcelain range. We set out to create a porcelain that welcomes every maker one that delivers the finesse and elegance porcelain is known for, alongside the resilience required for real-world use.
Stronger. More Durable. Made for Daily Use.
Bistro Porcelain is 38% stronger than the other porcelain bodies in our range. It has been carefully designed to meet the demands of hospitality and high-use environments, offering superior chip resistance and durability without compromising on brightness or refinement.
With impressive resistance to thermal shock and a highly responsive throwing experience, Bistro Porcelain gives experienced porcelain makers the freedom to push creative boundaries even when producing work destined for the toughest kitchen conditions.
Engineered for Control and Confidence
We formulated Bistro Porcelain with a high level of alumina to provide added structure and stability from the very first throw. It becomes a quiet partner in the making process, offering greater control and confidence throughout forming, drying and firing.
As Hannah Ault, our CEO, explains:
“We designed Bistro Porcelain in close collaboration with artisan makers to create a porcelain clay that delivers both performance and elegance.
The formulation provides exceptional strength and chip resistance without compromising the classic refinement porcelain is known for.
It’s smooth, stable and highly responsive offering an approachable throwing experience even for potters who have never felt confident using porcelain before.”
Throw, Re-Throw and Refine
One of the qualities we’re most proud of is Bistro Porcelain’s long-lasting plasticity. It can be re-thrown repeatedly without becoming short or losing workability, allowing makers to refine forms again and again with confidence.
This means:
-
More practice
-
More finished pieces
-
Less waste in the studio
Bistro Porcelain is fully vitrified at 1190°C, supporting lower firing temperatures than many traditional porcelains. That means reduced energy consumption without compromising on strength, translucency or performance.
As Hannah adds:
“Its re-usability offers significant sustainability benefits, as it reduces studio waste considerably.
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.”
Built on Collaboration and Innovation
The launch of Bistro Porcelain reflects our continued commitment to research and development, built on decades of close collaboration with the ceramic community.
For 47 years, we’ve been based in the heart of Stoke-on-Trent, producing high-quality clays shaped by the real-world needs of makers.
Bistro Porcelain follows the successful introduction of LoStone, our pioneering low-fire stoneware launched last year, as part of our ongoing strategy to support innovation and growth across the artisan ceramics sector.
Alongside product development, we’ve invested in our online retail facility at www.valentineclays.co.uk offering a seamless ordering experience backed by dedicated customer support and expert advice.
Bistro Porcelain
Made for makers. Built for service.
