What is glaze?

Glaze is a glassy coating applied to ceramic surfaces. It's essentially a thin layer of glass fused to the clay body through firing in a kiln.

• Purpose: Glazes serve various purposes, including:

  • Making the ceramic ware waterproof.
  • Providing a decorative surface with color, texture, and shine.
  • Strengthening the ceramic piece.
  • Making the surface food-safe and easier to clean.

• Composition: Glazes typically consist of three main components:

  • Silica: The glass former.
  • Alumina: A stabilizer that strengthens the glaze.
  • Flux: Lowers the melting temperature of the silica and alumina, allowing them to fuse at kiln temperatures.

• Types of Glazes: There are many different types of glazes, classified based on various characteristics:

  • Temperature: Low-fire, mid-fire, and high-fire glazes, depending on the firing temperature range required.
  • Appearance: Glossy, matte, satin, opaque, translucent, and crystalline glazes.
  • Composition: Earthenware, stoneware, porcelain glazes, based on the type of clay they are compatible with.

• Application: Glazes can be applied using various methods, including:

  • Dipping
  • Brushing
  • Spraying
  • Pouring

• Common Glaze Problems: Issues that can arise during glazing and firing include:

  • Crawling
  • Crazing
  • Shivering
  • Pinholing
  • Blistering

• Safety: Glazes contain chemicals that can be harmful if inhaled or ingested. Proper ventilation and safety precautions, such as wearing a mask, are crucial when working with glaze materials.