Mug or Fancy Cup?

We had a big debate the other day in the store about the pros and cons of what kind of cup you drink your tea out of. It was so much fun to hear who enjoyed what and why. I had a couple of surprises with friends telling me their preferences.

So, I’m a BIG mug kind of gal, especially in the morning.

I like large, handmade, one-of-a-kind ceramic mugs that feel good in my hands. My cupboard at home has a very eclectic collection of great mugs that I’ve found over the years at art fairs.

This inspired me recently to try my hand at creating my own mug on a pottery wheel.

It was such fun, but there’s definitely a learning curve.

My first attempt left something to be desired, so I mushed (a technical term, haha) the clay back down and made a second attempt.

It was better, but still not stellar.

However, I decided to keep it as a reminder we all have to start somewhere. The small mug is drying now and will go through the kiln, after which I’ll glaze it. I’ll post pictures of it when it’s glazed.

Trying to create my own mug also made me appreciate all the skills it takes to make a beautiful mug. I personally think my tea stays hotter in a ceramic mug rather than china. Of course, that’s subjective.

One of my friends, who I thought would be a mug person, totally surprised me with her confession that she gets joy from using a fancy china teacup. She said she thinks her tea tastes better out of china. She makes herself a small pot of tea in one of her favorite teapots. Using one of her beautiful teacups, she slowly sips her tea and then enjoys refilling her cup. She says it makes her feel special to do this for herself.

As fall approaches, I’m excited to be getting in a new collection of beautiful, handmade ceramic mugs that will be available in the store. My friend Rebecca is creating these especially for me. Her designs and colorful glazes are amazing! I can’t wait for them to arrive and for you to see them. I know you’re going to want one for yourself and for gifts as the holidays approach.

I would never leave anyone out. So for those of you who prefer china teacups, I have some beautiful ones calling your name.

Ultimately what you drink your tea out of is absolutely a personal preference, and there’s no right or wrong. Drinking tea should be a joyful experience. I like to think it feeds our souls along with helping our bodies.