Honestly handmade
Typical characteristics of handmade production
The craftsmanship of enamelled products reveals itself in distinctive details that give each RIESS original its unique charm.
Colour variations
Depending on the product, the enamel is applied either by dipping or spraying. Each item can be enamelled up to three to four times — the first layer is called the base enamel, and all subsequent layers are the top enamel.
Porcelain enamel is a natural and vibrant material that reacts to fluctuations in temperature and humidity. Minimal colour variations and slight irregularities in the enamel coating are therefore characteristic signs of handcrafted production.
Hollow handle – vent hole
This can be found on the reverse side of our hollow handles or along closed rolled rims. It allows air to escape as it expands during the heat of the firing process.
Round hollow handle – seam
Our products feature (depending on the model) two to four layers of enamel: a base enamel and coloured top enamel. As the base enamel expands slightly during firing, it creates a characteristic line typical of enamelling — known as the seam. This can be seen inside the hollow handles and at the point where the handle is welded to the pot.
Long hollow handle – open edge
On the back of our long handles, such as those on milk pans or saucepans, open edges remain around the hanging hole and where the handle is welded to the pot. Here, the iron remains visible.
Support points
These appear during the drying process of enamelware. The items are hung from one or more hooks on the inside of the rolled rim or handle or placed on drying rails. At these points, one or more small uncoated spots may remain, as the enamel cannot adhere where the hooks or rails touch the surface. We carefully position these marks in places that are barely visible. Should any surface rust occur due to moisture, it can be removed easily with dishwashing liquid.
Open edge – narrow
During edge trimming (milling of the forms), an edge is created where the enamel cannot fuse with the iron. This results in a black line where the iron remains visible — a typical example being our ladles.
Open edge – wide
On products made from thicker iron (such as the Aromapot or goose roaster), the milling pattern remains visible along the open edge after trimming. The enamel likewise cannot bond to the iron here. Support points may also be visible under the rim, where the pots are placed on rails for drying. It is advisable to occasionally rub the uncoated edges with a little cooking oil.
Rolled Rim – Open
The edge of the raw form is bent smoothly downward to avoid a sharp edge. After enamelling, the carrier material — iron — remains visible on the underside, as enamel cannot adhere to the narrow edge. Evenly formed rolled rims represent the highest level of enamelling craftsmanship.
Protective rim of stainless steel
Many of our pots feature a protective rim (ring) made of stainless steel, providing extra protection at this exposed area. This rim is added after enamelling, with its beginning and end remaining visible.
Our RIESS quality seal
The base of every RIESS product bears our 'RIESS Premium Enamel' seal. It certifies that the piece is an original RIESS product — premium quality, handcrafted in Austria. Each piece is unique and one of a kind.



















