How To Use Underglaze: Mastering the Art of Underglaze

Underglaze is a colored ceramic material applied to bisqueware pottery. To use underglaze, prepare the bisque-fired piece and ensure it is clean. Apply the underglaze using a brush, sponge, stencil, or other techniques to create desired patterns. Once dry, apply a clear or tinted glaze, then fire the pottery to seal the underglaze and create … Read more

The Cracking Conundrum: Understanding Crazing in Ceramics

what is crazing in ceramics?

Crazing in ceramics is a network of fine cracks that can appear on the glazed surface of pottery. This phenomenon occurs due to differences in the thermal expansion rates between the glaze and the clay body. Crazing can affect the durability of ceramics and may be intentional or unintentional. Beyond the Surface: The Science and … Read more

Exploring the Contrasts Between Glaze and Underglaze

Glaze & underglaze is used in ceramic arts to add color & texture. Glaze is a thin layer of liquid clay applied to the surface & then fired to form a hard, glossy coating. Underglaze is applied directly to the raw clay before glazing & is protected by the glaze layer. Underglaze provides a long-lasting … Read more

The Differences Between Slip and Underglaze

Slip and underglaze are both materials used in ceramics, but serve different purposes. Slip is a liquid mixture of clay and water used for forming ceramic pieces and as a base for glaze. Underglaze, on the other hand, is a colored material applied to the bisque-fired clay before the final glaze firing. It creates a … Read more

A Step-by-Step Guide to Adding Water to Glaze

Water can be added to glaze to thin it out and make it more fluid. The amount of water added will depend on the desired consistency and the specific glaze recipe being used. Too much water can dilute the glaze and affect its final appearance and performance, so it’s important to add it gradually and … Read more

The Perfect Timing for Glaze Drying: How Long Before Firing?

Glaze should dry completely before firing to avoid cracks and bubbles in the glaze surface. The drying time depends on the thickness of the glaze, humidity, and temperature conditions, but generally it takes anywhere from 12 to 24 hours. It’s best to wait until the glaze is completely dry to the touch before firing to … Read more

Exploring the Art of Salt Glazed Pottery

Salt glazed pottery is a type of ceramics that is made by applying a layer of salt to the surface of the clay before firing. The salt reacts with the silica in the clay and creates a glaze that gives the pottery a hard, glossy surface. The glaze provides a barrier against water. The unique … Read more