Maker spotlight: Pat’s world of porcelain painting

We sat down with Patricia, a talented porcelain painter with a love for all things art de la table, to talk about how she found her creative path. From her first brushstroke to studying at a historic French atelier, Patricia shares how this delicate art form became not just a hobby, but a source of peace, joy, and personal meaning. Whether you're creatively curious or just love a beautifully set table, her story is sure to inspire.

Trills: Patricia, how did you first get into porcelain painting?

Patricia: I’ve always loved the art de la table—a beautiful plate, a thoughtfully set table. But I lived in a small town, and with young children, I didn’t really have the time to pursue it. Once they were a bit older, I finally had space for myself. I started looking for courses in a nearby town, tried two classes... and I was hooked.

Trills: What happened next?

Patricia: I went deeper. I ended up taking more advanced classes at Atelier de Sèvres—a historic studio that once made porcelain for Louis XIV and even for the British royal family. The place is full of history. You walk in and feel part of something bigger.

Trills: Porcelain painting sounds intimidating. Do you need to be great at drawing?

Patricia: Not at all! That’s a common myth. You can use decals—images from books, geometric patterns, inspiration from nature. Of course, if you love drawing, it helps, but it’s not required. After a year, you can already get really good. It’s more about patience and practice than talent.

Trills: What do you love painting most?

Patricia: Animals, flowers, fruits. I’ve done some intricate parrots; those were some of my most detailed pieces. I’m less into landscapes. I prefer painting things that feel alive and vibrant.

Trills: What does someone need to get started?

Patricia: A few basic brushes, a good set of pigments, and access to a kiln for firing. That’s the technical part. But the real “material” is curiosity and a little bit of time each week. That’s all it takes to begin.

Trills: And how does painting make you feel?

Patricia: Peaceful. Focused. When I paint, I disconnect from the world. There’s no rush—everything slows down. It’s meditative. You’re working with your hands, but also your heart.

Trills: Has it changed your everyday life?

Patricia: Definitely. I notice more. I’ve become more present. Even outside the studio, I see details—colours, shapes, textures—that I would’ve missed before. It’s opened up a whole new way of seeing. Porcelain painting gives me joy, meaning, and something that’s just mine.