Questions and answers
General
Our products are 100% made in Portugal. We work with manufacturers in Barcelos, in the north of the country, who help us realise our designs. Barcelos is also where Botica Amano is based. This means that distances are short. The communication and relationship with our suppliers is open and based on partnership.
Our vases are thrown in the traditional way on the potter's wheel, then moulded and smoothed using traditional techniques and special tools. This requires a great deal of skill and experience from the craftsmen. The pieces are finished by hand with a sponge and sandpaper to achieve the desired surface texture. The glazes are then applied by hand.
The overhangs of our tableware are trimmed by hand, the edges are rounded, and all parts are finished by hand with a sponge and special tools to achieve the desired surface finish. Glazes are applied by hand. If you want to know more, you can find out more about the exact manufacturing process here
Our understanding of sustainability is based on continuous improvement, transparency and accountability. We use local raw materials, reduce our environmental footprint and promote fair working conditions. Excess clay and defective pieces are reused to minimise waste. Our products are durable, high quality and free from harmful chemicals, and we use recyclable, biodegradable packaging. Manufacturers are located locally to minimise transport and support the local economy. Our journey towards sustainability is an ongoing process of learning and growing to make a positive difference.
We have special conditions for large customers. Please contact us with your requirements and ideas at hello@boticaamano.com
Product and care
Our ceramics are made by hand with great care and attention to detail, meaning that each piece is unique. The artisanal process results in small variations in shape and colour from batch to batch. These irregularities are not defects, but rather signs of the individuality and special character of each piece. Each product is made using traditional techniques and high quality materials, which adds to the charm and authenticity of our ceramics and makes each piece unique.
As the vases are hand thrown on the potter's wheel, there may be slight variations in shape. This is unavoidable and desirable. We have deliberately chosen not to use moulds in which the liquid ceramic mix is poured into a mould and cured. However, we do ensure that the products are as uniform as possible and it will be difficult to tell the difference.
Yes. Our tableware can be put in the dishwasher without any problems. Stoneware is a high-quality and robust material. Our tableware are fired at 1280° and are therefore microwave, dishwasher and oven safe up to 200°.
Microwave, dishwasher and oven safe up to 200°C, our tableware is tough and designed to last.
To ensure the longevity of your tableware, we recommend gentle washing with standard dishwasher tablets. Avoid aggressive cleaners with citrus additives.
Avoid sudden temperature changes, such as from the fridge to the oven, to prevent cracking.
Matt glazes may, over time, show slight signs of wear from cutlery. These surface marks can usually be easily removed with baking powder and a sponge.
Depending on the hardness of the cutlery, matte glazes can cause cutlery abrasion. However, this is usually superficial and can be easily removed. This is not cracking of the glaze, as the glaze is usually harder than the cutlery itself. The softer the cutlery, the faster it will wear off.
This makes it easier to remove. Moisten the surface of the dishes. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda or baking powder on the surface and leave for at least 15-20 minutes. Then take a standard sponge and massage the baking soda mixture into the surface in a circular motion. You can take your time and don't worry, the rough surface of the sponge won't damage the glaze. Rinse the plate with water and it's as good as new.
We recommend using a soft cloth to clean your vase. Add a small amount of water if necessary. If the surface is rough, we recommend that you remove any discolouration or stains immediately with water and a cloth.
Vouchers and discount codes
You can enter your discount code in the 'Use vouchers' box at the bottom of the basket. Please note that discount or promotional codes cannot be combined and do not apply to items that are already discounted or to the purchase of vouchers. Discounts cannot be applied to shipping costs.
You can enter your voucher in the "use vouchers" field at the bottom of the shopping cart.
If you are unable to use your voucher, please send us a photo of it to hello@boticaamano.com . We will deal with your request as soon as possible.
Order
Once you have chosen an item, add it to your basket. Once you have added all the items you want to your basket, click on "Checkout", enter your address and select a payment method in the final step. Click "Pay Now" to complete your order.
Immediately after you place your order, you will receive an order confirmation from us. Once your order has been dispatched, you will also receive a dispatch confirmation and a tracking number so that you can check the status of your order at any time.
Email us at hello@boticaamano.com and we will let you know as soon as the item is back in stock.
Payment
You can pay using Paypal, credit card, instant bank transfer, Apple Pay and Google Pay.
Our payment service providers use industry-leading security standards to protect both your and our information. This ensures that the payment process is smooth and secure, so you can shop with confidence.
Shipping
We deliver throughout Europe. A detailed list of countries can be found in the Shipping section.
Delivery time via DHL within Portugal is 2-3 working days.
Delivery time via DHL to the rest of Europe is usually 4-8 working days.
Delivery times via DHL to non-EU countries may be delayed due to customs procedures.
Shipping costs within Portugal are a flat rate of €6.90.
All other shipping costs can be found in the Shipping section.
We generally ship to all EU countries. If you live outside the EU and are still interested in our products, please email us at hello@boticaamano.com and we will find a solution.
Our first priority is to ensure that your orders arrive safely. We use only sustainable and biodegradable packaging materials, and we reuse and recycle boxes and paper from our suppliers wherever possible.
We ship all our parcels carbon neutral with DHL GoGreen as standard.
Return and Refund
You have the option to return your products to us within 14 days under the statutory right of cancellation.
For detailed instructions on the return process, please visit the returns section.
We ask you to report any problems as soon as possible. Please send us an email to hello@boticaamano.com with the order number, product reference and photos and we will take care of the rest.
You will receive a refund for returned items within 14 working days of receiving the return confirmation email via the payment method used for your purchase.
In the event of a return, the cost of the return will be borne by the purchaser. We want to raise awareness of delivery routes and minimise the number of returns.