Mix & Match Dinnerware Ideas

After 15 years of using the dinnerware we received as a wedding gift, it was starting to look worn out. Those dishes have served us well through countless meals and celebrations, but they were beginning to feel dated and dull. I couldn't help but notice the beautiful new dinnerware options available, from trusted retailers to charming handmade shops.

Instead of choosing just one set, I decided to mix and match pieces that I loved, creating a stylish and personalized collection. I focused on a cohesive color palette, interesting textures, and a balance between high-end and budget-friendly options. This approach allowed me to stay within my budget while indulging in unique handmade pieces from artists and smaller shops.

Below, you'll find some tips on how to create this look for yourself, along with my top picks to get you started.

1. Start by selecting your core set

When choosing my core set, I wanted something neutral, sturdy, and reasonably priced since this would be the largest quantity I'd purchase. The core set should include about 8-12 of the everyday dishes you’ll need the most of—in our case, it was just 8 dinner plates and 8 small bowls. We previously had a full set of dessert plates and large pasta bowls that we rarely used, so I opted to buy fewer but more special versions of those (more on that in #2!).

Year & Day Ceramics

This modern and simplistic option is handmade in Portugal using clean, sustainable sources. The color palette, inspired by California, features beautiful muted tones like Moon (our choice), Palm, and Canyon.

Crate & Barrel Craft Collection

This collection is also made of matte-glazed stoneware with a similar coupe shape but at a more affordable price. It comes in basic, neutral colors, which might be perfect for your core set, and also offers a fun speckled option.

Casafina by Food52

In case you missed it, I love matte-glazed dinnerware. Here’s another silky-smooth option with a stunning, more rounded silhouette. It’s a bit pricier, but it comes in a variety of colors and sizes.

2. Add contrasting accent pieces, whether they’re everyday or special

This is where I began adding a smaller quantity of secondary pieces for specific purposes, like large bowls, small snack plates, or tiny dipping bowls. Since we needed fewer of these, we splurged on unique, handcrafted pieces from smaller shops. Stoneware with interesting textures or speckles can make these items feel extra special, and they can also double as smaller serving pieces.

East Fork Pottery

Chances are you’ve seen East Fork Pottery or have dined somewhere that uses it. Handmade in Asheville, NC, it’s gained popularity for its eye-catching seasonal colors, speckled glaze, and extra thick pieces. We have four everyday bowls and two popcorn bowls, and they’re our favorite pieces to use.

Hasami Porcelain

Hasami, made in Japan (love!), has always been at the top of my wishlist. It comes in unglazed, matte, and gloss finishes, depending on your preference. The coolest part is how perfectly all the pieces stack. We have mugs and small dishes that stack right on top—perfect for tea with a side of cookies!

Kinto

Also a Japanese brand, Kinto offers a variety of ceramics and glassware that pair perfectly with your core set. They feature different shapes, colors, and textures at affordable prices, along with a wide selection of coffee and tea ware.

3. Add a sturdy set of serving pieces

Since serving pieces are mostly used when you have company over, you can venture outside your core set to mix things up, even incorporating different colors throughout the year. Consider using bright, fun hues for spring and summer, and more neutral, earthy tones for fall and winter. I recommend choosing sturdy pieces in a variety of shapes, like large oval or rectangular platters, and a large deep or shallow bowl.

Heath Ceramics

Heath Ceramics is a staple in the Bay Area and has a huge following. Similar to East Fork, they’ve got their handmade production down to a science and produce solid, heavy pieces with the best of the best glazes and color palettes.

Fable

Fable is an online brand produced in Portugal, similar to Year & Day. Their pieces have a bit of an organic, handmade shape to them which makes them a nice accent or serving option and I love their white speckled design.

HAAND

I’ve recently discovered HAAND and can’t wait to get my hands on one of their pieces. This is the only brand mentioned here I’ve yet to purchase, but with such interesting shapes and glazes, I’ll definitely be adding one of these to my serving collection.

4. Start a collection of handmade mugs you love from small studios

This is the fun part because it’s a collection you can keep growing! If you love coffee and tea as much as I do, you'll find plenty of unique handmade mugs from small ceramic studios or during your travels. Adding these to your collection means supporting artists and small businesses, and it can be a small joy each morning to choose a new favorite mug to use. Here are some of my favorites that I’ve discovered.

Sandbox Ceramics

Sandbox is made by hand in Oregon and I’ve always loved the neutral colors and organic designs.

Not Work Related

A newer brand I’ve started following, this maker is a fellow “Sarah” and from Brooklyn. Her mugs sell out quickly, but I love how colorful and detailed they are.

Etsy

Being on Etsy myself, I’ve always loved the discoverability of this marketplace and supporting other makers and artists. Just search “handmade ceramic mug” and you’re sure to find a favorite.