SP103 - Paprika

SP103 - Paprika

(1st image) oxidation firing - stoneware

(2nd image) reduction firing - stoneware

(3rd image) reduction firing - porcelain

Glazes are designed to form a sealed glass layer when fired in order to make pottery watertight and food safe, even if the clay itself isn’t vitrified. A layer of minerals that is applied to clay in the bisqueware stage, it is also a great way to add color and sheen. Glazes range from transparent to completely opaque. High-fire glazes, such as this, should be used on high-fire clay (meant to be fired to cone 8-10).

To apply: Brush or dip onto bisque-fired pottery (pottery that has been fired to cone 06 - 08). If brushing, apply three layers, alternating the direction of the brush strokes with each layer to create a smooth finish. Let dry completely between each coat— (until it completely loses its sheen). If dipping, dip and hold for three to five seconds, then remove from the glaze and shake off the excess. A second layer can be applied but 3 or more layers will result in the glaze running off the pot. Let dry completely between each coat. Fire to cone 8 - 10.

If the consistency seems thick, add water to thin it down. If too thin, leave the container open to let some of the moisture evaporate. Note that mixing glazes together or applying one on top of the other may cause the glazes to react differently than you expect. We recommend that you always test a new glaze combination to see how it performs.

For a more in-depth how-to, check out Pottery Glazing Techniques.