How to Choose the Right Handmade Mug for Your Daily Ritual.

mseboulton
4 days ago
2 min read

A simple guide to finding a mug that feels good in your hands and elevates your everyday moments

Introduction

There’s something special about reaching for a mug that feels just right — the weight, the shape, the glaze, the warmth it brings to your hands. Handmade ceramics are more than functional objects; they become part of your morning ritual, your quiet moments, and your home. If you’re choosing a handmade mug for yourself or someone you love, here are a few simple things to look for.

1. Consider the Shape of the Mug That Suits Your Ritual

Different shapes feel different in the hand, and your daily habits influence what will feel best.

Rounded shapes - Great for cosy drinks, cupping in two hands, or slow mornings.

Taller, straighter shapes -Ideal for long coffees, tea drinkers, or those who prefer a cleaner, minimalist look.

Wide openings-Perfect for people who enjoy the aroma of their drink, coffee art, or like their coffee to cool slightly faster.

2. Think About Handle Comfort

Handle comfort changes everything. Look for:

a natural thumb rest
enough space for your fingers
a smooth, rounded interior curve
a handle that balances the mug’s weight

If you hold mugs tightly or by the handle alone, choose a piece with a sturdy, well-rounded handle. If you like to hold your mug from the body, a smaller, delicate handle may feel perfect.

3. Choose a Glaze for Your Handmade Mug That Fits Your Style

Your mug becomes part of your home’s visual rhythm.

Soft, natural tones work beautifully in calm, minimalist spaces. Textured, rustic glazes add warmth and character to a table or open shelf. Glossy glazes feel brighter and more classic. Matte finishes feel modern and earthy.

You don’t need a matching set — but choosing complementary tones can make your shelf look intentional.

4. Consider Size & Weight for your preferred Ritual

Think about what you actually drink each day.

Small mugs (180–250ml) → espresso, short blacks, herbal teas
Medium mugs (250–350ml) → flat whites, chai, everyday brews
Large mugs (350ml+) → long coffees, tea drinkers, cold mornings

A handmade mug should feel substantial but not heavy. Hold it by the handle and by the body — you’ll feel immediately whether it’s “yours.”

5. Choose What Feels Like You

The best part of handmade ceramics is choosing something that resonates with your personal rituals. The marks of the maker, variations in glaze, the faint tool marks in the clay — these are the details that connect you to the piece.

A handmade mug isn’t just a vessel, it’s a moment you'll reach for and

get to enjoy every day.