Tea lovers all know that the craftsmanship of making a purple clay teapot is divided into "fully handmade" and "semi-handmade." However, the fully handmade purple clay teapots are certainly the ones that are more familiar and beloved in the market. Does this mean that semi-handmade purple clay teapots have no value and are not worth pursuing?

(1) Understand the pot making process

"Fully handmade" means that the process of making a purple clay teapot does not use molds to assist in shaping. It is done using traditional hand-shaping methods, where different parts are connected using clay to create the clay pieces, teapot body, and to shape the spout and lid.

The difference with "semi-handmade" is that molds are used to assist in shaping the teapot body, while other components such as the spout, handle, and lid are still made by hand. The advantage is that the shape of the teapot body is more uniform and the capacity is more standardized.

(2) Value Discrepancy – Is it Worth the Price for Handcraft? Is the Price Justifiable?

"Fully handmade teapots" emphasize uniqueness and exquisite craftsmanship. Since no molds are used in shaping, even if the design is the same and crafted by the same artisan, each purple clay teapot will have slight differences. The difficulty and time required to make fully handmade purple clay teapots are high, and as a result, their prices in the market are generally higher than those of semi-handmade teapots. This is because artisans invest more effort and time in the production, and the likelihood of producing a crooked handle is higher than in semi-handmade teapots, significantly increasing the difficulty.

"Semi-handmade teapots" focus on cost-effectiveness. Since semi-handmade teapots still include a portion of handcrafting, artisans can express their ideas as well. Moreover, the crafting technique is not the only factor determining the price of a purple clay teapot; the intricacy of other decorative techniques, such as carving and flower stacking, also influences the price of the teapot.

(3) Value Determination: Eye Appeal, Clay Material, Craftsmanship

The price difference in making teapots is not too far apart, as long as the clay used is of good quality, the price is reasonable, and it is visually appealing. Semi-handmade purple clay teapots are also practical tools for brewing tea!