The Reclay Ceramic Makers from East Java, Indonesia
Ceramics are made to last, yet the industry behind them often treats broken pieces as disposable. Every day, cracked plates, cups, and production rejects are discarded, even though ceramics do not decompose and are rarely recycled. Once sent to landfill, they remain there indefinitely.
This workshop began with a refusal to accept that reality.
The story spans generations. What started as a small family ceramics practice in East Java was later carried forward by Angeline, who took over the workshop with a determination to keep traditional craftsmanship alive while adapting to a changing world. Alongside her are Raymond and Florencia, longtime collaborators who joined with a shared belief that ceramics could be made differently: with care for people, the materials, and the planet.
Today, Raymond focuses on building long-term stability and ensuring the workshop can sustain itself, while Florencia brings the pieces beyond the workshop walls, connecting the work of local artisans with homes, cafés, and spaces far beyond Indonesia. Angeline remains at the heart of production, working closely with the makers to guide form, finish, and quality.
Nearly every step of the process is done by hand. Alongside shaping fresh clay, the makers carefully collect rejected and broken ceramic pieces from their own production, which are materials that would otherwise be discarded. These internal ceramic wastes are processed and used as part of the material for new tableware, helping prevent waste from ending up in already overburdened local landfills. Each piece is then shaped, fired, and finished using traditional ceramic techniques, with careful attention at every stage. Subtle variations in colour, form, and texture naturally emerge, serving as reminders that these pieces are made by people, not machines.
The workshop is supported by a predominantly women-led team of artisans. Over half of the craftspeople are women, including widows and women who are the main providers for their families. Educational background is not a barrier as artisans are welcomed regardless of formal schooling and are given training and the opportunity to build skills over time. During busy periods, work often extends beyond the workshop, creating additional income opportunities within the surrounding community.
Internal production tests have shown that this approach results in denser, more durable pieces and allows for more efficient firing, reducing overall energy use during production. The result is functional, thoughtfully designed tableware made with a lighter footprint
This is proof that sustainability can be built quietly, thoughtfully, and at scale.
Key facts
15 in-office workers, 150 production workers
ISO 9001
SNI (Indonesian National Standard)
All permanent staff are registered with Indonesia’s national healthcare and social security program.
Commitment to gender equality (SDGs Goal No. 5), with approximately 50% women artisans
Inclusive employment practices, welcoming artisans regardless of educational background
Ongoing training and skill development for all craftspeople
A women-led team that allows its workers to earn a sustainable living through skilled ceramic craftsmanship.
Other Makers
Originalhome’s aim is to create as many jobs as possible in the poorer regions of this world. Our partners are entrepreneurs that work with a sustainable and social mission in mind. We build partnerships, apply the principles of fair trade and pre-finance materials and equipment. Our partners vary from mid-sized professional businesses with fair trade certifications to small startups. Meet the ambitious makers behind originalhome!
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