As early as 1511 Potters' guilds were organized in Lower Silesia. Pottery was hand-crafted and decorated with a folk art stamping technique using potatoes. Farmers traditionally took advantage of the cool winters to produce their pottery which was simple in design and color. The norms for quality and design were provide by guilds (or templates) but as a result of being crafted in individual homes, each bowl and plate was a unique work of art. The Bunzlauer style of pottery evolved through the Renaissance and Baroque periods, the "Peacock" look that was favored in the 1830's is now the most famous among hundreds of patterns.

The school of ceramics in Boleslawiec ( now known as Bunzlau) was opened in 1897 to teach would-be artisans how to achieve the high standards for which Polish Pottery is now known around the world. The look and production of various patterns were affected by World War II, and the rise of Communism until the fall of the Iron Curtain.  Now that the artists have more freedom to express themselves, we are experiencing a resurge of the beautiful traditional designs, as well as exciting new ones.

Skilled Polish artists still individually handcraft and decorate each piece of pottery today, but small sea sponges are now used to stamp each pattern and color instead of potatoes. Polish stoneware is made from white clay and molds are used for some pieces, however plates are still typically made on a pottery wheel with the potter's skilled hands. Pottery painters are trained for years and the most highly-acclaimed artisans earn the privilege of creating their own work from start to finish. Their pieces are signed on the bottom, and designated as "Unikat", which simply means unique. Because of the time and artistic talent required for "Unikat" pieces, they are considered "more rare" and sought by collectors. Since each piece is hand-made, slight variations in color and pattern may exist; a characteristic typical of any work of art. Historically, some of the famous original designs included those commissioned by renowned Frederick the Great, King of Prussia, in the 18th Century.

The basic principals behind pottery making remain the same to this day, though the techniques and technology are vastly improved. After mixing ingredients, molding the pottery, and applying the decorations, Polish Pottery is kiln-fired. In regions of the world with clay and mineral material of lesser quality than that of Poland, pottery is fired at temperatures between 800 and 1200 degrees Fahrenheit. This produces a slightly porous product often called terra cotta or earthenware. The clay deposits of Lower Silesia allow Polish Pottery to be fired at extremely high temperatures, which produces tough, age-defying stoneware.

The pottery is finished with a glaze which is a specialized form of glass - that is, a thin coating of material that during firing forms a glass coating. Painted decorations are under the lead-free glaze, insuring that the pottery is non-toxic and immune to abrasives. This intense twice-fired process makes the Polish Pottery extremely durable. Authentic Polish pottery is oven, microwave, dishwasher and freezer safe because they are baked at 2246 degrees Fahrenheit. However, any sudden, extreme change in temperature is not recommended.

In the Boleslawiec and the Silesia region there are several factories that make this form of pottery. While highly competitive, each factory uses the same raw materials and time-honored techniques to craft their pottery. They differentiate themselves by offering unique patterns and shapes. While the traditional patterns remain the most popular, there are hundreds of patterns produced.