Milton Stoneware Bowls 10.5cm Set of 4 - Multi

These are four small stoneware bowls, each 10.5cm across and 5cm tall, and no two share a pattern. One has birds and sunbursts set in panels, one has large open flowers, one a close tile pattern of smaller blooms and one sweeping leafy scrolls. Inside, each base carries a single motif drawn from its outside pattern, and the rim is gently wavy rather than machine-even, which gives the multicoloured set a relaxed, informal look. Each bowl holds 200ml, so think of them as dip, sauce and side bowls rather than cereal bowls.

On the table they suit the small things: olives and nuts with drinks, a dip beside crisps, soy sauce with sushi, chutney on a cheese board or a scoop of ice cream after supper. In the kitchen they work as prep bowls, keeping chopped garlic, herbs and measured spices ready while you cook. Because each pattern is different, a table of four can tell whose bowl is whose at a glance, which saves a muddle when everyone is having pudding. A set of four patterned bowls also makes an easy housewarming or birthday present for anyone who prefers mismatched, characterful tableware to a uniform dinner service.

Stoneware is dense and hard-wearing, which is why it suits everyday tableware. The maker notes that, because of the nature of the glaze, colour can vary from piece to piece, so your bowls may differ slightly in tone from one another. Care is simple: all four go in the dishwasher and the microwave, and they can go in the oven too, so you can warm a sauce or bake a small pudding in one. To store them, stack them in a short tower on an open shelf, where the patterns read like a row of tiles.

What size are the bowls and how much do they hold?

Each bowl is 10.5cm across and 5cm tall and holds 200ml, a good size for dips, sauces, nuts or a small dessert.

Can they go in the dishwasher, microwave and oven?

Yes. The maker states that all four bowls can go in the dishwasher, the microwave and the oven, so everyday use is straightforward.

From what material are the bowls made?

They are 100% stoneware with a glazed finish, and the maker notes that the glaze colour can vary slightly from one piece to another.

How many bowls come in the set, and do they match?

You receive four bowls, each with a different pattern, so no two match, though all four share the same size and shape.

Can I serve food in them?

Yes. The maker approves them for food, so they are ready for olives, dips, sauces, ice cream and other small servings at the table.