How to Apply Enamel Glazing to Your Pottery
Many potters and hobbyists apply enamel glaze to their pieces of pottery. Enamel glaze can be applied before firing or after. Most prefer to glaze afterwards. Application can be done by dipping, sponging or using a paintbrush. Sponging or using a toothbrush will give a textured appearance to pieces. Using a paintbrush is the preferred method by most pottery lovers.
In the following, there are some basic instructions and tips for applying enamel glaze to pottery.
Allow pottery pieces to thoroughly dry and cool thoroughly. Complete drying will aid in the absorption of glaze.
Paintbrush should be dipped and as wet with paint as possible. Glaze spreads more smoothly when a brush is well loaded with paint. Do not allow brush to dry out.
Three coats of glaze should be applied. After drying, detail and décor can be added to pieces.
Use a variety of brushes to create various decorations on pieces of pottery. Colors should be blended together. Allow any added decoration to completely dry before adding a final glaze.
Paint a coat of clear glaze on to piece. This aids in protecting pottery pieces. It also enhances vibrancy and shine.
Put glazed pottery piece into kiln for firing. Never let pottery piece touch kiln sides. Place in center of kiln.
After firing, allow finished piece of pottery to cool completely before removing from kiln. If removed before cooling, pottery and glaze may become cracked and flawed.
