Materials & Manufacturing
FROM HERE AND ELSEWHERE…
FROM HERE AND ELSEWHERE…
The story begins in our Parisian studio where our products are imagined and then designed. The tableware is made in our partner factories in the magical province of Hunan, located in the south-east of China and renowned for the quality of the clay that we find there, as well as ancestral know-how around ceramics such as stoneware or porcelain. Björn, a tableware brand recognized for its refinement and quality, was born thanks to the ambition and the vision of two enthusiasts. Its founders, experts in the field of sourcing and lovers of beautiful materials, have spent decades traveling the world in search of artisanal excellence. Their experience has allowed them to audit the best factories over the years, retaining only those which met strict criteria of quality, durability, and traditional know-how.
THE MAGIC OF HUNAN
THE MAGIC OF HUNAN
Their research took them to the enchanting province of Hunan, in the southeast of China, where one of the most beautiful parks in the world, Zhanjiajié, is located. The American director James Cameron was largely inspired by this captivating place for his film “Avatar”. This region is renowned worldwide for its exceptional clay, rich in minerals, and for its millennia-old heritage in the manufacture of ceramics. It is there, in the heart of this unique region, that Björn found partners who share the same passion for the art of the table. Hunan is a true showcase for ceramic craftsmanship. For centuries, local artisans have mastered ancestral techniques of working stoneware and porcelain, perpetuating know-how passed down from generation to generation. It is this tradition, combined with modern equipment and an environmentally friendly approach, which gives birth to Björn tableware. Each piece, whether a simple bowl or an elegant dish of service, is the result of a perfect balance between innovation and tradition. Minimalist and timeless designs, inspired by Nordic landscapes and natural textures, come to life thanks to the know-how of Hunan artisans.
STEP BY STEP
The creation and manufacture of ceramic tableware, whether stoneware or porcelain, involves several key stages, combining creativity, technical expertise and artisanal know-how. Here is an overview of the main phases:
1. The design
The process begins with the search for inspiration (shapes, textures, patterns, colors). Designers create sketches or digital models to define the aesthetics and dimensions of the pieces. A first prototype is often made by hand for validation.
2. Choice of Materials
At Björn, we work with sandstone (clay rich in silica and feldspar) for its robust side, often used for design and utility pieces. We also transform porcelain (kaolinic clay, fine and white) for more delicate and refined creations.
The raw materials are mixed with water to form a homogeneous paste. The mixture is sifted and debubbled to avoid imperfections (air bubbles).
3. Modeling
A potter's wheel can be used to shape a specimen, then a plaster mold is usually used for complex or serial shapes with different machine actions. Then comes assembly by hand for parts comprising several elements (handle, lid, handle, foot).
4. Drying
The shaped parts are left to dry slowly to prevent cracking. This phase lasts between a few hours and several days, depending on the size and thickness of each element.
5. Biscuiting
This is the first cooking. The pieces are fired at a medium temperature (around 900-1000°C), which makes the ceramic hard but porous, ready to receive glazes.
6. Enamelling
Enamel (powder mixed with water) is applied by dipping, spraying, dabbing or brushing depending on the desired result. It is at this stage that the magic is expressed. Decorative effects can be added, such as painted designs or inlays, under or over the enamel, depending on the desired effect.
7. The second firing (Grèsification or vitrification)
The enameled pieces are fired at high temperatures: between 1200 and 1300°C for stoneware and up to 1400°C for porcelain. At this stage, the clay becomes vitrified, making the pieces waterproof and resistant.
8. Finishes
The sanding and cleaning stage helps soften the edges and correct any irregularities.
9. Quality control and packaging
Each piece is inspected for possible defects (bubbles, cracks, enamel irregularities) before being carefully packaged to avoid damage during transport.
This process can be adapted according to specific needs, for example for mass production or unique handcrafted pieces. Variations in temperatures, glazes or modeling techniques allow for immense diversity in ceramic creations.
BJÖRN’S COMMITMENT
BJÖRN’S COMMITMENT
For Björn, excellence goes far beyond simple product quality. It is a philosophy anchored in collaboration with artisans and partner factories. The founders have established strong and lasting relationships with their manufacturers, ensuring ethical working conditions and responsible production practices. Obviously, all our products are manufactured with the greatest care, respect European hygiene standards and are compliant with food contact.
