Frequently Asked Questions
More About StoneWear Ceramics
What is stoneware clay?
Stoneware clay is a dense, refined, high-fire clay. Because it is fired at such high temperatures, stoneware pottery is waterproof and does not need to be glazed. Stoneware is more durable than other kinds of pottery and earthenware, and it gets its name from its stone-like appearance and texture.
How long does it take to create a StoneWear Ceramic dress sculpture?
It takes between 60+ hours over a period of 8-12 weeks to create a stoneware replica gown. This includes the sculpting time, drying time, firing time (2 bisque and glaze fires), and application of beading/details. Each clay dress is unique and designed to reflect the brides who wear them, and these ceramic dress sculptures also feature highly personalized accents and details.
How big are StoneWear's ceramic dress replicas?
Our ceramic dresses are approximately 12”-13” inches in height and 8”-12” inches wide, depending on the type of gown and silhouette.
How much will it cost to purchase a replica of my dress?
StoneWear sculptures are created as one-of-one heirlooms designed to be collected, displayed, and passed down. I only accept a limited number of commissions each year to ensure each piece receives focused studio time and thoughtful execution. As such, pricing aligns with a custom fine art commission.
Please complete the commission interest form to receive an estimate for your dress sculpture.
What information do you need to create a ceramic replica of my dress?
First and most importantly, I ask that you submit photographs of the dress you’d like me to replicate. Photos of the dress from multiple angles, close-up shots of notable accents and alterations, and wedding or fitting photos are great examples of imagery that will ensure the most accurate representation of your gown. The more detailed photographs, the better! Also, if you know the name of the gown designer and the name of the gown itself, those details are helpful to reference.
How many photographs do you need of my dress?
As many as you want! The more visual references and details you provide, the more information we have to design your ceramic replica. So, the more you have, the better!
Can I purchase a StoneWear gown as a gift?
Absolutely. A StoneWear sculpture may be commissioned as a gift and is often chosen to mark significant milestones—weddings, anniversaries, or generational heirlooms.
Each gifted commission is approached with the same level of discretion, artistry, and care. The process is handled privately, with the final piece presented as a one-of-one collectible work of art. If desired, I’m happy to coordinate timing, presentation, and details to ensure the gift is both meaningful and impeccably delivered.
How do you determine the price of each gown?
A StoneWear gown sculpture is a bespoke commission created to honor a singular garment and preserve it as a lasting work of art. Each piece is sculpted entirely by hand, with meticulous attention to proportion, structure, and detail. Because no two gowns, and no two stories, are alike, pricing is not standardized.
Bespoke commission pricing is determined by the scope of work each individual piece entails, including:
- The complexity of the gown’s design and construction
- The time required for hand-sculpting, firing, and finishing
- The level of artistic interpretation needed to translate the garment into stoneware
Each estimate reflects both the craftsmanship involved and the intentional, limited nature of my practice.
How soon will my ceramic dress ship from the time I place my order?
Each sculpture requires approximately 8–12 weeks to complete. Because commissions are accepted in limited number to preserve the integrity of the work, availability is determined by my current studio calendar.
If you have a specific timeline in mind, I’m happy to review my schedule and discuss whether an earlier placement may be possible. When appropriate, I will do my best to accommodate special requests within my existing commission window.