a method of making dielectric ceramics containing mixed metal oxides is provided . the method comprises the steps of at least partially coating a metal oxide powder with a metal hydroxide or metal oxide , compacting the coated powder with one or more additional metal compounds or metal compound precursors , and directly sintering the compact in a single step . the method of the invention may be used to avoid occurrence of significant quantities of one or more undesired but thermodynamically or kinetically favored side products . the method of the invention may also be used to synthesize perovskites , in particular lead - magnesium - niobium , lead - magnesium - niobium - lead - titanium perovskites , or lead zirconate titanate .