Handmade Natural Soapstone Fruit Bowl, Round from Kisii, Kenya
Crafted from a Single Stone  Ethical & Timeless  Functional Art

Select your size from 10" / 25 cm or 12" / 30cm

Sculpted by hand from a single block of natural soapstone in the Tabaka Hills of Kisii, Kenya, this 25 cm round fruit bowl is a celebration of simplicity, heritage, and everyday elegance. Its smooth, cool surface and subtle stone variations make it both a practical vessel and a soulful centrepiece.

🍇 Uses & Versatility
•     Kitchen & Dining: Perfect for holding fresh fruit, bread rolls, or serving salads and snacks with understated charm.
•     Decorative Display: Use as a table centrepiece, shelf accent, or pairing with dried botanicals for a natural look.
•     Mindful Living: Its grounding weight and tactile finish invite slow moments—ideal for minimalist or nature-inspired interiors.

🪨 Benefits of Kisii Soapstone
•     Natural Cooling Properties: Keeps fruit fresher for longer when pre-chilled, thanks to soapstone’s thermal retention.
•     Taste-Neutral & Non-Porous: Safe for direct food contact, won’t absorb flavours or moisture.
•     Durable & Unique: Each bowl features natural colour variations—creamy whites, warm greys, and soft veining—making every piece one-of-a-kind.
•     Ethically Handmade: Supports fair trade and sustains traditional carving techniques passed down through generations of Kisii artisans.

Whether gifted or kept, this bowl is more than a container—it’s a quiet tribute to craftsmanship, culture, and the beauty of natural materials.

🪨 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