Talavera Pottery
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What is Talavera pottery?
Talavera is a traditional Mexican ceramic art form known for its hand painted designs, tin based glaze, and centuries old techniques. True Talavera is made primarily in Puebla and parts of central Mexico and follows specific standards for materials, firing, and craftsmanship.
How is Talavera made?
A tin-based glaze is applied and the design is hand painted directly onto the raw glaze using mineral based pigments. The piece is then fired again, permanently setting the design. While the firing itself takes many hours, the full kiln process can take several days due to slow heating and cooling. This multi step process results in the rich colors, slight variations, and durability Talavera is known for.
What materials are used for your products?
Our pottery is made using traditional materials such as natural clay, plaster molds, and mineral based glazes. Many glazed pieces use tin based glaze, especially in Talavera style ceramics, which gives them their soft, slightly raised finish and vibrant colors. Some items are made from terracotta, which is a natural porous clay, while others are fully glazed ceramic. Material details vary by piece and are always noted in the product description.
What is the difference between cold painted ceramics, traditional Talavera, engobe, and classic ceramic pieces?
True Talavera
True Talavera is made using a historic process that dates back centuries. Pieces are fired so the design becomes permanently fused into the glaze. Talavera has a soft, satin like finish and is typically produced in specific regions of Mexico following traditional methods.
Engobe ceramic
Engobe ceramic is a style where liquid clay (called engobe) is applied to the surface of a piece before firing, creating a smooth, often matte base. Designs are then painted on top—sometimes left matte or partially glazed—resulting in a soft, earthy finish with subtle contrast between textures.
Classic ceramic (glazed ceramic)
Classic ceramic pieces are also kiln fired and glazed but may be decorated using either underglaze or overglaze techniques, depending on the style and workshop.
Cold painted ceramics
Cold painted pieces are decorative items where the design is applied after firing and is not kiln fired again.
Each type has its own beauty and purpose, and we clearly label our pieces so you know exactly how they are made and how they are intended to be used.
Where are your products made?
Most of our pieces are handcrafted in Mexico by amazing artisans working in small workshops across several regions, including Guanajuato, Puebla, Mexico City, and Guadalajara. Each area is known for its own techniques, materials, and artistic traditions, which is why you’ll see subtle to dramatic differences from piece to piece. These variations are part of the beauty and authenticity of handmade work.
Are items handmade or hand painted?
We partner with artisans we know and trust, working in small workshops throughout Mexico to bring you unique, high quality pieces. Most pieces are handmade and/or hand painted, which means no two pieces are exactly alike. Small variations are part of what makes each piece special.
Do you offer custom or personalized orders?
We do not offer personalized items online. Our brick-and-mortar location has a larger selection to choose from. If you're interested in seeing more designs of an item, please reach out to us so we can build a custom order for you.
Can I see more pictures of an item before purchasing?
Absolutely! Feel free to message us if you'd like additional photos of a specific item, and we'll be happy to provide them for you.
I entered the wrong shipping address. How do I change it?
We kindly ask that you double-check your information to ensure accuracy before placing your order.
If you’ve entered the wrong address, please contact us as soon as possible. We process orders quickly to ensure timely delivery, so changes cannot be made once the order has shipped. While we’ll do our best to assist, we cannot be held responsible for orders shipped to an incorrect address that are marked as delivered. Thank you for your understanding.
I purchased a gift card online through your website. Can I use it in store?
What are your shipping rates?
Shipping rates are calculated at checkout based on the destination and weight of the order. Shipping rates for non-contiguous U.S. locations are calculated at checkout.
Do you offer free shipping?
We currently offer free shipping on select products within the contiguous U.S.
Do you ship internationally?
At this time, we only ship within the United States, including territories like Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Do you ship to P.O. boxes or APO/FPO addresses?
While we can ship to P.O. boxes via USPS, we do not ship to APO/FPO addresses at this time. If possible, please provide a physical address during checkout.
What should I do if my package arrives damaged?
Please contact us within 72 hours of delivery with photos of the damaged items, packaging, and your order details. We’ll do our best to resolve the issue quickly.
Do you offer local delivery?
Local delivery may be available for items offered on our website if you need your order sooner than standard shipping. Orders are typically processed the next business day, with delivery later that day, depending on availability.
Please contact us before ordering to confirm availability, timing, and delivery fees for your address. This is a drop-off service, not a moving service, and does not include carrying items inside your home or placing them within your property.
How much is the local delivery fee?
The local delivery fee is determined by the third-party courier based on the package's weight, size, and delivery distance.
Where do you offer delivery to?
Local delivery is available for online orders within a 50-mile driving distance of our store. Some neighboring cities eligible include Moreno Valley, Perris, Menifee, Lake Elsinore, Redlands, Colton, Fontana, Corona, Chino Hills, Corona, Anaheim, Santa Ana, Irvine, and more! Please chat with us so we can confirm delivery options with you.
How does the local delivery work?
We use a third party to fulfill local delivery orders. They contract gig drivers who pick up and deliver orders. Delivery is based on the couriers' availability.
Can drivers help me move my products inside?
Our store no longer provides moving services for large or heavy pieces, such as tables or oversized sculptures. We cannot provide delivery that includes unloading, carrying items inside, or moving and placing them within your property.
If you need this assistance, please arrange a separate moving service equipped to handle your piece. Contact the store before purchasing to discuss pickup arrangements so you can plan accordingly.
Do you accept returns and exchanges?
No, all sales are final. Final sale items cannot be returned for exchange, refund, or credit. Please ensure you’re happy with your selection before purchasing. For our full refund policy, click here.
The item I purchased in-store is damaged or defective. Am I able to return it?
With handcrafted and hand painted items, slight imperfections, quirks, and color variations are a natural and beautiful part of the artistry.
Nonetheless, we highly recommend you check your items for any chips or cracks before you leave the shop. Once the item leaves the store, we can't accommodate for any concerns. If you have any issues with an online order, please don't hesitate to reach out to us on the respective platform!
An item from my online order arrived damaged. What are my next steps?
We're really sorry if your order arrived damaged. Please reach out to us via contact form or live chat within 72 hours of delivery so we can assist. Be sure to keep all packaging material and damage item.
Are your items microwave-safe or dishwasher-safe?
Our items are not microwave- or dishwasher-safe due to their delicate ceramic coating. We recommend handwashing them with mild soap to preserve their beauty and longevity.
Are your products frost-proof?
No. While some products may be frost-resistant, others may only have a partial layer of ceramic glaze. The external ceramic glaze works to prevent color fading and provides an extra layer of protection against chipping and cracking. However, this leaves the inside vulnerable to water and weathering. We recommend bringing them indoors during freezing weather to prevent damage.
How should I care for my Talavera pottery?
• Clean with a soft, damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid soaking, harsh cleaners, and abrasive sponges. Dry after cleaning.
• Display indoors or in a sheltered area during mild weather. Protect from prolonged direct sunlight, heavy rain, and extreme heat or cold. Not frost-proof or frost-resistant.
• Many pieces have an unglazed foot ring that can absorb moisture despite the glazed finish. Avoid leaving the base in standing water.
• Avoid sudden temperature changes. Let sun-warmed planters cool before watering; cold water on hot pottery can cause fine cracks.
• For fountains, vases, and other pieces intended to hold water, use distilled water when possible to reduce mineral buildup.
• Handle gently and protect furniture beneath pottery.
Do the colors of Talavera pottery fade over time?
The colors on our Talavera pieces are long-lasting when cared for properly. Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight to prevent fading.
Are the Talavera tiles suitable for outdoor use?
We recommend indoor use or sheltered outdoor decorative areas in mild conditions. Our tiles are glazed on the front, partially glazed along the sides, and have an unglazed terracotta back that can absorb moisture. They are not frost-proof or frost-resistant and should be protected from excessive moisture, extreme heat or cold, and sudden temperature changes.
Before an outdoor installation, consult a qualified tile installer about your location, drainage, and installation materials. Sealing alone does not make the tiles waterproof or frost-proof. For DIY projects, we recommend choosing a dry indoor decorative area.
Can the Talavera tiles be used in a pool or shower?
We do not recommend our tiles for pool interiors, waterlines, shower walls or floors, or other areas with frequent or prolonged water exposure. Their glazed front does not waterproof the entire tile; the partially glazed sides and unglazed terracotta back can absorb moisture.
Sealant is not a substitute for tile specifically rated for these conditions or for proper waterproofing behind the tile. For these projects, choose tiles confirmed by their manufacturer as suitable for pool or shower use. Our tiles are best enjoyed in dry decorative areas.
How should I care for my Talavera planter and/or yard art?
Keep your Talavera piece indoors or in a sheltered outdoor area during mild weather. Protect it from prolonged direct sunlight, heavy rain, and extreme heat or cold. Our Talavera pieces are not frost-proof or frost-resistant. Many have an unglazed foot ring that can absorb moisture despite the glazed finish.
Clean with a soft, damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid soaking, harsh cleaners, and abrasive scrubbers.
For planters, keep drainage holes clear and avoid leaving the base in standing water. Let sun-warmed pottery cool before watering, as sudden temperature changes can cause fine cracks. For pieces intended to hold water, distilled water helps reduce mineral buildup.
How should I care for my engobe pottery?
• Gently clean with a soft, damp cloth and mild soap as needed. Avoid soaking, harsh cleaners, and abrasive sponges, especially on matte surfaces. Dry after cleaning.
• Display indoors or in a sheltered area during mild weather. Protect from prolonged direct sunlight, rain, excessive moisture, and extreme heat or cold. Not frost-proof or frost-resistant.
• Avoid sudden temperature changes. Let sun-warmed planters cool before watering; cold water on hot pottery can cause fine cracks.
• For pieces intended to hold water, use distilled water when possible to reduce mineral buildup. Empty standing water from saucers.
• Lift from the body or base, never delicate decorative details.
How should I care for my engobe planter or yard art?
Our engobe planters have a porous exterior and glazed interior. The interior glaze does not make the entire piece waterproof. Keep engobe indoors or in a sheltered outdoor area during mild weather, protected from prolonged direct sunlight, heavy rain, persistent moisture, and extreme heat or cold. These pieces are not frost-proof or frost-resistant.
Clean gently with a soft, damp cloth and mild soap as needed, then allow to dry. Avoid soaking, harsh cleaners, and abrasive scrubbers.
For planters, keep drainage holes clear and empty standing water from saucers. Let sun-warmed pottery cool before watering, as sudden temperature changes can cause fine cracks. Avoid hard water when possible; distilled water helps reduce mineral buildup.
How do I care for my engobe or Talavera serveware?
• For pieces designated as serveware only. Use for serving and display, not cooking.
• Wash before first use. Handwash with mild soap and a soft sponge; rinse and dry thoroughly. Avoid soaking, harsh cleaners, and abrasive scrubbers.
• Not dishwasher- or microwave-safe. Do not use in an oven, on a stovetop, or over direct heat.
• Suitable for warm food. Avoid boiling-hot contents and sudden temperature changes, which can cause cracking. Let pieces cool before washing.
• Unglazed bases may absorb moisture. Allow them to dry fully before storing, and avoid leaving pieces in standing water.
• Handle gently and cushion stacked pieces to prevent scratches and chips.
• Stop using chipped or cracked pieces for food or drinks.
How should I care for my hand-sculpted clay pottery?
• For indoor, dry decorative use. This porous clay should not hold water or be exposed to rain, splashes, or persistent humidity.
• Dust gently with a soft, dry brush or cloth. Do not rinse, soak, or clean with a wet cloth. Avoid cleaning sprays and harsh chemicals.
• Keep away from damp spaces, prolonged direct sunlight, heaters, and extreme heat or cold. Not frost-proof or frost-resistant.
• Avoid sudden changes in temperature and moisture, which may damage the clay or delicate details.
• Lift carefully from the base or main body. Never lift by flowers, wings, limbs, or other sculpted details.
• Place on a stable surface where the piece will not be bumped or knocked over.
How should I care for my tin art?
• Indoor display is recommended. Tin decor can rust, even indoors; humidity, repeated splashes, and prolonged moisture increase the risk.
• Keep in a dry location away from rain, sprinklers, steamy bathrooms, and other damp areas. Avoid harsh weather, extreme temperatures, and prolonged direct sunlight.
• Dust with a soft, dry cloth or brush. Do not soak or use abrasive cleaners, metal polish, or harsh chemicals on painted finishes.
• If the piece gets wet, gently dry it right away, including folds and crevices.
• Handle carefully: thin metal can bend, and edges may be sharp. Lift by the main body and avoid pulling on decorative details.
• For lighted pieces, also follow the separate electrical and bulb instructions.
Do you sell in bulk or offer wholesale pricing?
We do not offer wholesale pricing and generally do not carry bulk quantities. We work with small artisan workshops, bringing in limited quantities of handcrafted pieces with a focus on craftsmanship and variety.
Do online discounts apply in store?
No. We handle the lowest and most competitive prices in store. This means sales and promotions are rare. Online discounts are only available through the respective platform in which they are found.
Do online prices and store prices differ?
Yes, prices are higher online.
We wanted to make it easier for those who can't visit us in person to still enjoy our Talavera. Our online prices account for factors like shipping, packaging, and platform fees, as well as the extra care we take to ensure your pieces arrive safely and in perfect condition.
For best pricing and selection, visit us in person!
Do online prices differ among platforms?
No, regular prices remain the same across all our platforms, but our website allows us to offer extra discounts! Since platform fees vary, shopping directly through our site helps us pass those savings on to you through our Loyalty Program. Joining is free!
Can multiple discounts combine/stack?
No, typically discounts do not combine. While our free shipping offer combines with nearly all promotions automatically, other promotions do not combine with each other. This includes but isn't limited sitewide discounts, promo code discounts, and sale items.
Can I use more than one discount code per order?
Only one discount code can be applied per order.