Collect unique cups, mugs, vases and plates from these local ceramic shops
Dining at home is definitely more fun when you have a quirky set of plates, saucer and cups. While there's the standard 12-piece dinner set you can acquire from any department store, impress your guests with coffee cups that have grumpy faces them or a full-blown traditional Peranakan dinner set.
From stuff for dinner and drinks to cute planters and jewellery, ceramic pieces are having a moment with more people taking an interest in beautifying their homes – and also making the conscious effort to shop from local labels.
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This minimalist souvenir shop is the perfect place to pick up thoughtful, one-of-a-kind gifts for that special someone (or yourself). Think asymmetrical bowls, dimpled cups and painstakingly handpainted plates inspired by modern Singapore culture. You can even pick up the magical "language changing" cup inspired by the one the Prime Minister has here. Because most items are available in limited quantities, your best bet’s to pop in and find out what’s in stock.
Local makers Michelle and Seok run this ceramic studio creating functional and beautiful wares out of mud and clay. Many flock to the event to bring home mugs, plates and planters during its popular Mud Rock Ceramics annual sale. But due to the current situation, browse its wares on the online store intead. Just remember to keep checking back for new drops!
You can find practical items like mugs, cups vases and bowls at Ohleaf but what makes the brand stand out is its mesmerising glazes. It uses a proprietary blend of glazing recipes, which results in vibrant hues like Sea Foam Blue, Lavender Fog and Galaxy Blue. The team is also made up of product designers and young ceramic artists, which results in a seamless blend of traditional ceramic making techniques with contemporary designs.
Formed by a group of Singaporean clay artists, this rustic hideaway is also a cultural gem as it is home to the oldest surviving dragon kiln in Singapore. If you don't have time to drop by Thow Kwang Pottery Jungle for a session, you can also purchase ceramic ware from its online store where you can get Peranakan plates, dining ware, earrings and baking dishes.
If you're not inheriting any vintage dinnerware from your elders anytime soon, start your own tradition. Joot specialises in Peranakan gifts and porcelain so you can buy vibrant dinner plates and more in intricate and traditional Peranakan designs. The store ships overseas if you have relatives who want a piece of Singapore in their faraway homes.
As its name suggests, the label offers a wide range of curated tableware from independent and small-batch makers around the world. The folks behind Eat & Sip are big into mindful eating (and drinking) and wants people to feel connected not only to their food, but also the plates and glasses they use. You'll find plenty of beautiful handmade pieces like lace-designed plates, watercolour-painted dishes and wine tumblers with grumpy faces.
Don't mind cheeky faces on a cup? Shop the quirky products from Gellyvieve. Though you'll find practical stuff like vases and cups, the whimsical and childlike designs are what makes the brand stand out from the rest. Plus, having a cup with eyes might motivate you to hydrate regularly. They're always watching...
Not all ceramics have to be in that same blue, green or brown glaze – Ummuramics brighten things up with rainbow-coloured cups and mugs in interesting designs. If you love all things pastel-hued and Paddlepop-esque, shop the range by Ummuramics. Everything is made in small batches so wait patiently for the monthly drops.
