Soapstone breakfast bowls in 5", 6", 7", and 8" sizes offer a tactile, earthy elegance—and each size lends itself to a different kind of culinary experience. Here's how they shine across the breakfast spectrum:

🥣 5-inch Bowl (12 cm) – Petite & Refined

Perfect for:

• Yogurt with honey and nuts
• Sorbets or fruit compotes
• Single-serve granola or muesli
• Dips or spreads (if used for brunch boards)

This size is ideal for light starters or small portions—think of it as your “elevated ramekin.”

🍓 6-inch Bowl (15 cm) – Classic Cereal Companion
Great for:
•     Porridge or overnight oats
•     Cereal with milk
•     Fruit salad or chopped melon
•     Ice cream or dessert servings
It’s the go-to for everyday breakfast, with just enough room for layering textures and toppings.

🥗 7-inch Bowl (18 cm) – Generous & Versatile
Ideal for:
•     Hearty granola with fruit and yogurt
•     Scrambled eggs with toast soldiers
•     Salads or grain bowls (quinoa, couscous, bulgur)
•     Pudding or trifle-style breakfasts
This size suits those who like a fuller start to the day or brunch-style servings.

🍇 8-inch Bowl (20 cm) – Table Centrepiece or Shared Serving
Best for:
•     Family-style fruit bowl
•     Croissants or pastries
•     Breakfast potatoes or roasted veg
•     Smoothie bowl with elaborate toppings
It’s perfect for sharing or for those who treat breakfast as a slow, indulgent ritual.

Soapstone’s natural coolness also makes it ideal for chilled dishes—just pop it in the fridge beforehand. And because it doesn’t absorb flavours, you can switch between sweet and savoury with ease.

Care instructions are included. We advise to use the bowls for cold / hot non-staining food only.

🪨 The Art of Kisii Soapstone Carving in Kenya

In the lush Tabaka Hills of Kisii County, southwestern Kenya, soapstone carving is more than a craft—it’s a cultural legacy passed down through generations. Each handmade item reflects the skill, patience, and pride of local artisans.

⛏️ 1. Quarrying the Stone

• Soapstone, locally known as Kisii stone, is mined by hand using basic tools like machetes, chisels, and hammers.
• The stone is soft due to its high talc content, making it ideal for carving.

🧱 2. Preparing the Raw Blocks

• Extracted blocks are transported to workshops, often within the artisan’s home or community space.
• The stone is cut into manageable sizes depending on the intended item—be it a bowl, figurine, or sculpture.

🔨 3. Carving the Shape

• Artisans use hand tools—files, blades, and even household items like screwdrivers—to sculpt the stone.
• The initial form is roughed out, then refined with intricate details, often inspired by nature, animals, or cultural motifs.

💧 4. Sanding and Polishing

• Wet sanding with water and grinding stones smooths the surface and brings out the stone’s natural luster.
• Some pieces are polished to a high gloss; others are left matte for a rustic feel.

🎨 5. Painting and Etching (Optional)

• Many items are hand-painted with vibrant African designs or etched with symbolic patterns.
• Natural dyes or commercial paints may be used, depending on the artisan’s style.

🖐️ 6. Final Touches

• Each piece is inspected for balance, finish, and artistic integrity.
• Items are often signed or marked by the artisan, celebrating their personal touch and heritage.

Kisii soapstone isn’t just beautiful—it’s deeply meaningful. It supports local economies, preserves ancestral knowledge, and connects global buyers to the heart of Kenyan artistry.

🧼 Caring for Soapstone: Simple, Effective, and Long-Lasting

Soapstone is naturally non-porous, heat-resistant, and durable—but it does benefit from a little TLC to keep it looking its best, especially if it’s a handmade item like those from Kisii, Kenya.

🧽 Regular Cleaning

• Use warm water and mild dish soap with a soft cloth or sponge.
• Avoid abrasive scrubbers or harsh chemicals like bleach or vinegar.
• Dry thoroughly to prevent water spots.

🪔 Oiling for Richness

• Apply food-safe mineral oil or beeswax to deepen the stone’s color and enhance its natural patterns.
• Rub in with a soft cloth, let sit for 30 minutes, then buff off excess.
• Reapply every few months or when the surface looks dry or uneven.

🛠️ Handling Scratches

• Minor scratches can be gently sanded with fine-grit sandpaper (start with 220 and finish with 400).
• After sanding, clean and re-oil the area to restore its finish.

🔥 Heat & Impact Precautions

• While soapstone resists heat, avoid sudden temperature changes—don’t place hot items directly on cold surfaces.
• Don’t drop heavy objects on it; it’s soft and can chip.

🧃 Stain Prevention

• Wipe up spills quickly, especially acidic substances like lemon juice or wine.
• Use coasters or placemats under drinks and dishes.

Soapstone ages gracefully, developing a patina that tells its story and a little care goes a long way.

The story of how your soapstone item was created