🧱 Cube-Shaped Soapstone Planter – Patterned Sides

Geometric Poise Meets Artisan Detail

Solid and grounded, this hand-carved cube planter offers a bold yet balanced silhouette. Each face is etched with distinctive, handcrafted motifs — rhythmic and organic — which celebrate the tactile beauty of stone and the artisan’s eye. The natural heft ensures stability, while the carved sides invite closer inspection.

🌿 Benefits & Features

• Exceptional Stability – Its weight and compact cube shape make it ideal for tall or top-heavy plants, preventing tipping in wind or uneven terrain.
• Decorative Relief Carving – Side patterns add textural interest and tell a quiet story of craft and cultural symbolism.
• Natural Weathering Resistance – Soapstone’s density helps withstand outdoor elements while aging beautifully.
• Root-Friendly Thermal Regulation – Keeps soil temperature even, protecting delicate roots from harsh fluctuations.
• Versatile Display – Works equally well indoors on a hearth or entryway table, or outdoors on patios and steps, offering sculptural charm in any setting.
• One-of-a-Kind Finish – No two are alike — each stone block varies in tone, veining, and carved nuance.

🪨 Built to Hold, Meant to Last

With its quiet gravity and rich surface storytelling, this planter is more than functional — it's a meditative block of heritage and elegance. Whether paired with bold foliage or left empty as minimalist décor, it stands with intention.

10 x 10 x 10 cm (9.5 x 9 cm internal dimensions) and heavy at  1.2kg

Each piece is handcrafted from a single piece of stone by the artisans of Kisii, Kenya. As each is unique, slight variations in design may occur.

🪨 A handmade stone item feels rooted—heavy, solid, and authentically of the earth. Unlike manufactured pieces, it carries the artisan’s intent and the natural rawness of its origin. Each curve and weight speaks of permanence, meaning, and craftsmanship that machines can’t replicate. It’s not just made—it’s unearthed and shaped.

🪨 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