
Overfiring a glaze can create problems with the finished article. And it is not uncommon for ceramicists to share high fire glaze recipes on forums.įiring glaze above a temperature that it is designed best for is called ‘overfiring.’ However, potters are often as generous as they are inventive.And as there are fewer gas kilns used, there are also fewer commercially produced high firing glazes on the market. High firing is normally done in gas kilns. Partly because it draws so much electricity to do so. Electric kilns are not often used at the high firing range.There are also many mid fire commercial glazes available.This makes them good for functional purposes. Also, an advantage of these glazes is that they tend to be strong. However, as glazes have advanced, it is possible to achieve vivid colors in this range. In the past, mid fire and high fire glazes were used to create pottery with earthy more subdued colors.There are many low fire commercially produced glazes available.Low fire glazes can produce strong colors without needing as much power to fire.Choosing a Pottery Glaze According to Its Firing Temperature Range: Low Fire Glazes When choosing a pottery glaze you need to select one that fires at the same temperature your clay body. This will let you know what temperature range the glaze can be fired to. Like clay, glazes are categorized by the cone system. Temperatures between these two ends of the spectrum are given a different cone rating ascending from 022 to 10. There are cones that go above 10, but most commercial ranges go up to 10. The highest cone is 10, which melts at around 2381F (1305F). The lowest cone number is 022, which melts at a temperature of around 1112F (600C). Choosing a Pottery Glaze – Some Practical Considerations So, an understanding of the different types of ceramic glaze available is a great starting point. It’s a wonderful feeling to produce something that looks lovely. The artistic element of glazing your pottery can be very exciting and rewarding. So, choosing a pottery glaze involves practical and artistic considerations. Different types of ceramic glaze create very different finishes to pottery ware. Is your pottery going to be decorative or functional? Also, there are aesthetic questions. What temperature you are firing to and how do you want to use your ceramics. After all, you want to make sure you get beautiful results.Ĭhoosing a pottery glaze requires the following considerations. There are many different types of ceramic glaze and there are important considerations when you are choosing a pottery glaze.

Simple, right? Well, it may not be as simple as it sounds. Thank you for your support.Īs the name suggests, glazing your pottery basically means you are covering it in glass. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
