5 Tips for Setting a Beautiful Table

I am so excited to announce you can now buy my designs as full dinnerware sets! You'll save up to 15% off by buying the full set, and can mix and match designs. To honor this special occasion I had my friend Emily, queen of dinner parties, help me create a list of 5 tips to set the perfect table for the next time you host.

1. First and foremost, ensure your table is set before your guests arrive. While it's okay to be busy in the kitchen once they arrive, I always am, having the table ready sets the perfect mood and will really impress your guests.

2. For an extra touch of creativity, consider using a special dinnerware set or mix-and-match of unique plates. You can see my dinnerware sets here! For a classic look my Striped set is always perfect, and for a conversation starter my Line Drawn Dancer Set is truly one of a kind. 

3. Cloth napkins might seem like a minor detail, but they're worth the effort. I found charming ones at a flea market for just $1 each. 

4. Candles and flowers are the bow of the table. They are that extra detail that makes everything look beautiful.  You don't need to be a florist; a few stems in bud vases can do wonders. Adding colored candles for that extra accent is a lovely touch.

5. Lastly, choosing a theme for the evening can elevate the experience. It doesn't have to be extravagant, just something to tie the evening together. I love having an oyster party. The oyster plate takes center stage on the table, setting the scene as we enjoy shucking oysters all night.

 

If you want to shop this table setting I have added all the handmade ceramics below!

 
Picardie Tumbler
from $42.00

Picardie Tumblers are a fun take on the traditional french drinking glass. These ceramic tumblers all have hand drawn blue lines silhouetting their shape. These are about 10 ounces and are perfect for any drink.

Sold individually 

Dishwasher safe though hand washing is recommended.

White porcelain

Blue lines

clear glaze

hold 9-10 oz


Thanks for looking!

Oyster Plate
$248.00

The Oyster Plate is open for Pre-order! I am currently working on handmaking a small batch of oyster plates. If you order yours now I will ship it in 6-8 weeks (sooner if possible). This will be your showstopper at any dinner parties.

We have also been lucky enough to be featured in The New York Times the T List host gift guide! This will be your showstopper at any dinner parties.

Back in the Victorian era the oyster plate was the most coveted dishes. Inspired by these vintage showstoppers I bring you an eight well oyster server with hand painted and richly colored designs of oysters.

This is a must have addition to any dinner wear collection. Present oysters to your guests on this beautiful serving platter specially made to hold 8 oysters for sharing, and includes a bowl in the middle for your favorite garnish (mine is lemon). If you’re not planning on hosting an oyster night, don’t worry this platter can also be used to host chips and vegetables for any party.

This platter is hand built and painted by me, Catherine Rex. Since each piece is handmade and never printed, every piece is one to a kind. due to the nature of throwing and glazing, ceramics may vary in size and design.

light stoneware

clear glaze

Original painting

about 12 inches in diameter!

FAQ :

  • Is this oyster plate dishwasher safe? Yes, but I always suggest hand washing for longevity

  • How many oysters does it hold? 8

  • Is this a handmade ceramic oyster plate? Yes I handmake each one !

  • Is it food safe? yes!


Line Drawn Dancer Plate
from $76.00

Handmade Ceramic Dinner Plates – Artistic Stoneware Dinnerware Set

These handmade ceramic dinner plates are designed to turn everyday meals into something a little more special.

Available as singles or as a full ceramic dinnerware set, each plate is hand built and illustrated by Catherine Rex. Singles are ready to ship, while dinnerware sets are made to order and take approximately 8–10 weeks to create—each one thoughtfully made, never rushed.

Every plate features an original nude line drawing, sketched by hand directly onto the surface. Each dancer is drawn individually by hand in cobalt blue, giving every plate its own subtle character and energy. These plates embrace the female form and the beauty of all bodies.

Whether you’re building your own dinnerware set, searching for meaningful handmade ceramic dinnerware, or looking for a gift that feels intimate and lasting, these plates bring art into the home in a way that feels effortless and lived-in.

Crafted from durable light stoneware and finished with a clear glaze, these plates are made to be used—morning breakfasts, slow dinners, and everything in between. Over time, they become part of your story.

Details:

  • Handmade ceramic dinner plates

  • Original hand-drawn nude line artwork in blue

  • natural white light stoneware dinnerware

  • Clear glaze finish

  • Approximately 10–10.5 inches in diameter

  • Available as singles or ceramic dinnerware sets

  • Dishwasher Safe. Suggest Handwashing for longevity.

Perfect for:

  • Building a ceramic dinnerware set with intention

  • Unique wedding or housewarming gifts

  • Everyday use that feels anything but ordinary

Due to the handmade nature of these stoneware dinnerware pieces, slight variations in size and design are to be expected—and celebrated.

Thanks for being here,
Catherine Rex

Dancer Appetizer Plate
from $62.00

plates are sold as single or set! Singles are ready asap, Sets are made to order and take 8-10 weeks to create!

These plates are all hand built and drawn by Catherine Rex.  Since each plates is hand drawn and never printed, every plate is one to a kind. These unique plates are the perfect gift or way to add some art to you dinner table.

My ceramics are hand made and trimmed with love and care, creating truly one of a kind pieces. Due to the nature of throwing and glazing, ceramics may vary in size and design. 

light stoneware

clear glaze

Original line drawing


 Diameter is 7.25 inches

.75 inches tall


Thanks for looking!
Catherine Rex

Fruity Bud Vase
from $94.00

Each bud vase is handmade and adorned with drawings of fruit. These are so cute and are the perfect addition to brighten a corner or table. Display them as is or with a floral stem. Each Vase is one of a kind. Please review the descriptions below carefully to make sure you get the one you want.

#1 watermelon, cherries, lemon drawing , 3.5 inches tall

#2 Cherries, 4 in tall

#3 Strawberries , 4 in tall

#4 Watermelon and lemon drawing, 4.75 inches tall

#5 cherries drawing, 4.5 inches tall

#6 Cherry design, 5 inches tall

7 Cherry design, 3.5 inches tall

8 Cherry design, 3.5 inches tall

9 Cherry design, 3 inches tall

10 Cherry design, 3.5 inches tall

11 Watermelon and lemon drawing, 3.5 inches tall

Stoneware clay

Blue line drawing

clear food safe glaze

handwash

Painted Flower Candle Holder
$60.00

Handmade taper candle holder, painted with blue flowers.

Sold individually

Candles are not included

Limited Availability



Catherine Rex