Our Process
Every Floyd Mug is made with care, precision, and plenty of hands-on work. From raw materials to the finished cup in your hand, each step is intentional.
We begin by mixing our own slips and glazes from dry raw ingredients, ensuring complete control over the quality and character of the finish. Each mold is crafted in-house from pottery plaster and water. Once a cup is removed from the mold, it goes onto the potter’s wheel where the rim is carefully cleaned and smoothed by hand.
The first stage of firing is called the bisque firing. This low-temperature firing in an electric kiln makes the clay strong enough to handle but still porous enough to absorb glaze. Afterward, each cup is individually filled and dipped into our clear glaze. The foot of the cup is cleaned with a sponge to keep the base smooth and neat.
The second firing is the glaze firing, which reaches around 2250°F. This step transforms the glaze into a glasslike surface that seals and strengthens the piece. After about 30 hours of firing and cooling, the mugs are ready to come out of the kiln.
Next comes the decal process. We design each decal in Photoshop and print them with ceramic toner before laminating them to a flux sheet. They are cut out, floated in water, and applied to the cups one at a time. Using a flexible rib, each decal is smoothed into place so it bonds cleanly to the surface.
The third and final firing, called the decal firing, heats the mugs to about 1600°F. At this temperature, the decals fully fuse into the glaze, becoming a permanent part of the cup. Once the kiln has cooled, the mugs are carefully unloaded. The feet are sanded smooth, the surfaces are cleaned, and finally, each mug is paired with its silicone lid and sleeve—ready to be used and enjoyed.