Enamelled plates, mugs and cookware are made by by fusing powdered glass to a metal object. The enamel used in making cookware and crockery is called vitreous enamel as it uses glass, and it’s extremely hard and durable.
The glass powder is fused to the metal by firing it at hight temperatures, at which point the powder melts, fuses and then hardens to a smooth surface. Modern day enamels have broken away from their ‘campfire’ image, and are now bright, attractive and a bonus for any contemporary kitchen.
If you’re hosting a Bonfire Night party, invest in some pretty enamel mugs or a coffee jug to add some practical style to the outside table.
Here’s our pick:
1. Muurla enamel mug in ‘leaves, Eclect Design
The stylish leaf design on this enamelware mug by Muurla (Finland) lends a contemporary feel to a retro motif and will look great in your kitchen. Lightweight and durable, it will be at home around the picnic table as outdoors in the garden. It’s dishwasher safe as well. £11, available from Eclect Design.
2. Contemporary enamel mugs, Dassie Artisan Homecare
These traditional enamel mugs have been given a contemporary makeover, with a choice of Moorish, lovebird or chevron designs in a fashionable soft grey. Each piece of enamelware has been handcrafted from porcelain fused with steel, and each one is unique. The mugs are heat resistant and can go from oven to table, perfect for entertaining, and can be used for hot or cold food – indoors or out. Dishwasher safe.£10.95 each from Dassie Artisan Homecare.
3. Set of four tumblers, Berry Red
This set of four enamel tumblers, each with their own design inspired by the four seasons, is ideal for mulled wine around the bonfire. Presented in their own folk printed gift box, they also make a lovely gift. Hand wash only. £30, available from Berry Red.
4. Allium bloom enamel mug, Burgon & Ball
Designed by Sophie Conran for Burgon & Ball, this enamel mug is perfect for carrying around the garden and keeps your hands warm on cold days. Lightweight and virtually unbreakable, it’s made from stainless steel with an enamel coating and stainless steel rim. There’s also a cherry blossom design available. £16.95, available from Annabel James.
5. Set of three Girasol jugs, Loaf
Pretty and practical, this set of three jugs in different sizes will be equally happy serving hot drinks in the winter, cold drinks in the summer and doing duty as flower vases in between. Made from lightweight powder coated steel, they have a hand painted edge detail for extra character and cost £45 for the set from Loaf.
6. White enamel salad servers, Cachettte
Handmade in France, these salad servers are ideal for serving baked potatoes round the bonfire. Made from metal and enamelled to a crisp white, they’re durable and dishwasher proof. £31.65 for the set, available from Furnish.co.uk.
