Talavera Pottery
Online Orders
Shipping
Delivery
Returns & Exchanges
Product Details & Care
Pricing & Discounts
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, 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.
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?
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 all items handmade or hand painted?
Yes. We partner with artisans we know and trust, working in small workshops throughout Mexico to bring you unique, high quality pieces. Each item is 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?
Delivery may be available to your address. Local delivery within a 50-mile driving distance of our location may be available for an additional cost. Please contact us before placing an order to confirm.
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. Same-day delivery is based on the couriers' availability.
Can drivers help me move my products inside?
Drivers are not movers and do not cross the threshold while delivering.
If you have a large or heavy item that requires lifting, make sure you have someone at the drop-off location to unload the item as needed.
Please make sure to the address is secure. We are not responsible for lost or stolen deliveries after they've been successfully delivered.
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 include:
- A detailed description of the problem.
- Photos of the damaged item(s) and the condition of the packaging.
- Your order number or proof of purchase
Are your items microwave-safe or dishwasher-safe?
Many of 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 the tiles suitable for outdoor use?
While our tiles are beautiful for indoor use, they are not frost-proof and should be protected from freezing temperatures and excessive moisture.
Can your products hold hot liquids or food?
Our kitchenware and serveware pottery are safe for serving food or beverages, but we recommend avoiding sudden temperature changes to prevent cracking. They are not designed for direct heat.
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 do I care for my Talavera items?
Clean your Talavera items with a damp cloth and mild soap, avoiding abrasive cleaners. Protect them from extreme temperature changes and excessive moisture for lasting beauty.
Do the colors 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.
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 do differ between in-store and 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.
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. 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.