Use and Care

General

Earthenware is very porous.  It is best if the pieces are stored in an open cupboard.  Even though the piece may appear dry, keeping it in a closed cupboard may cause the piece to get fuzzy, yes, this is mold.  Plates should be stored in a rack that will keep them upright and allow air to circulate around them.

Slipware - These pieces may be used to serve food and can be used in the oven and microwave. Sgraffito ware, leaf and fern plates - These pieces are usable as well as decorative. Use gently and do not place in the oven or microwave. 
Please avoid sudden changes in temperature as this may cause the piece to crack. Pieces should be hand-washed and air-dried. 
Place a water-proof plate under any piece you are using to hold liquid for an extended length of time as earthenware is porous.

Pie Birds

(1) Place your unbaked crust in your pie plate.
(2) Put the Pie Bird in the center of your crust.
(3) Pour your pie filling in the crust evenly around the Pie Bird.
(4) Cut a small slit in the top crust.
(5) Gently place the top crust over the pie, easing the Pie Bird through the slit. Let it rest on the "shoulders" of the Pie Bird.
(6) Seal the dough around the Pie Bird and crimp the crust together at the edge.
(7) Bake per pie directions. 
(8) Remove the Pie Bird when you cut the first piece of pie.

Brown Sugar Keepers

Soak in warm water for 20 minutes, then wipe off extra water with a towel.  Add to your brown sugar, raisins, dried fruit or coconut to keep it moist.  Refresh every 2 months.