Creating porcelain sculptures with embedded textiles is a delicate art form that merges the fragility of ceramics with the pliability of fabrics. However, this fusion presents several significant challenges.

First, material compatibility is a major hurdle. Porcelain shrinks during firing, while textiles may burn or distort under high temperatures. Artists must carefully select heat-resistant fabrics or pre-treat materials to withstand kiln conditions.

Second, the firing process requires precise control. The difference in thermal expansion rates between porcelain and textiles can cause cracking or warping. Artists often experiment with multiple firing stages or lower temperatures to preserve both materials.

Third, structural integrity becomes complex. Textiles lack the rigidity of porcelain, making it difficult to maintain the sculpture's form during creation and firing. Some artists use temporary armatures or special adhesives that burn away cleanly.

Fourth, surface finishing poses unique difficulties. Glazes may interact unpredictably with textile fibers, requiring extensive testing to achieve desired visual effects while preserving fabric textures.

Lastly, long-term conservation is challenging. The differing aging processes of ceramics and textiles can lead to deterioration issues over time, demanding specialized display and storage solutions.

Despite these obstacles, the striking contrast between porcelain's smoothness and textiles' tactility continues to inspire artists to push the boundaries of mixed-media sculpture.