Glazing: Where Clay Finds Its Voice  

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There’s a quiet magic in glazing. After weeks of shaping, drying, and bisque-firing, your piece finally meets color, texture, and light. It’s where intention meets surprise—where a soft blue becomes a stormy sky, or a simple brushstroke transforms into a desert horizon.

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But like all meaningful things, glazing asks for attention. It’s not just about beauty—it’s about care: for your work, for the kiln, and for the shared space we all rely on.

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 What Is Glazing?  

Glaze is a liquid blend of minerals and pigments that, when fired, melts into a glassy surface. It seals your pottery, makes it functional, and gives it soul. But because it’s part chemistry, part intuition, small choices—like thickness or layering—can lead to big results (wonderful or unexpected!).

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 Why Thickness Matters  

Think of glaze like a coat of paint—but one that *moves* in the kiln.  

- Too thick? It can run, stick to the shelf, or craze (develop fine cracks) as it cools.  

- Too thin? Color may fade, texture disappear, or the surface stay porous.  

- Just right? Smooth, even, and full of life.  

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A good rule: aim for the thickness of heavy cream. When dipping, 3–5 seconds is often enough. When brushing, 2–3 even coats (letting each dry) usually does the trick.

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 Mixing Glazes: Play with Care  

Layering glazes can create stunning effects—but not all combinations play well together. Some may over-melt, crawl, or separate in surprising ways.  

→ Our gentle rule: Test new combos on a tile first. Keep a small journal of what you try. And always check our studio’s glaze compatibility notes (posted near the glaze shelf!).

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 A Few Shared Practices That Help Everyone  

- Wipe the foot clean: Glaze on the bottom = stuck to the shelf. Leave at least ¼ inch (about the width of a pencil) bare.  

- Dry thoroughly: Let glazed pieces sit overnight before firing. Trapped moisture can cause pops or cracks.  

- Keep bisque clean: Dust or oil prevents even adhesion. A soft brush or damp sponge before glazing makes a difference.  

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 Remember: Glaze Surprises Are Part of the Journey  

Not every result will match your vision—and that’s okay. Some “mistakes” become your signature. A run might look like a river. Crazing can echo ancient pottery. And every unexpected outcome teaches you more about your materials.

Final Thought  

Glazing isn’t about perfection. It’s about listening—to your piece, your intuition, and the quiet alchemy of fire and minerals.  

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However your glazes turn out, know this: you’re part of a community that celebrates every step of the making.  

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Happy glazing,  

*Your Studio Community* 

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