Ceramic Glazes

Ceramic Glazes and Their Uses
Glazing techniques were thought to have begun in Japan around 550 AD. Members of the Tang Dynasty glazed fine porcelain with natural ash. Sometime in the eighth century, those of the Islamic culture began using this same technique. There are various advantages and uses of ceramic glazes.

Additives and Effects		Classroom Packs		High Fire Glazes		Underglaze Colors
Underglaze Decoration

This Week's Featured Products in Ceramic Glazes

	Class Pack #2 This set of 6 pints includes Peacock Green, Yadro Print, Strawberry Sundae, Royal Fantasy, Obsidian, and Black Opal.
	Classroom Pack 4, Set of 6 Includes one pint each of PC-23 Indigo Float, PC-28 Frosted Turquoise, PC-33 Iron Lustre, PC-39 Umber Float, PC-43 Toasted Sage, and PC-59 Deep Firebrick.
	Class Pack 2 This set includes one pint each of Exotic Blue, Sand Bar, Green Float, Old Brick, Brown Moss, and Burnt Orange.

Objects crafted of ceramic materials can be strengthened by glazing. Ceramic glazes are often used to design certain patterns on a piece. Earthenware can be glazed as a means of allowing it to be able to hold liquids. If not coated with glaze, water would leak from pieces. Texture and color are also greatly enhanced with glazing.

Under Glazing and Over Glazing

Pottery that has decoration applied to it before being glazed that is known as under glaze. Bisque, raw and green ware can be used in under glazing. Following under glazing, a wet transparent glaze is applied. Popular porcelain in Japan, China, England and other countries, known as Blue and White, is produced in this manner. Over glazing is much the opposite of under glaze. It is applied over glaze. To ensure a glassy and smooth effect, it must be applied at low temperatures.