How to Glaze Ceramic Bisqueware in a PMC Kiln

The bisque must be completely dry before you apply the glaze.

Ceramic bisque is the name given to a ceramic piece that has been fired once in a kiln and has no moisture content. A kiln is an oven in which ceramic pieces are baked. There are many types of kilns, including a PMC kiln. A PMC kiln is designed for use with precious metals and clay, including glazed ceramic pieces. Once a piece of ceramic bisque is glazed, which is a coat of color applied to the outside of the piece, it needs to be fired a second time.

Things You'll Need

• Vacuum cleaner with soft brush attachment
• Ceramic stilts
• Enamel fork
• Paint brush

Instructions

1. Paint the bisque with the glaze of your choice. Apply the glaze with a paintbrush in small, smooth strokes. Any streaks will show once the bisque is baked. If you want to layer colors, bake the piece between the application of each color.

2. Vacuum the inside of the kiln with a soft brush attachment. Don’t touch the heating element.

3. Set the temperature of the kiln to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Preheat the kiln for at least 30 minutes.

4. Open the door insert ceramic stilts into the kiln. Ceramic stilts keep the bisque from touching the bottom of the kiln so the glaze doesn’t stick.

5. Set the glazed ceramic bisque on the ceramic stilts. Position the bisque so it is level to the bottom of the kiln.

6. Close the kiln door and open the vent holes. If the kiln doesn’t have vent holes, crack the door open 1/2-inch.

7. Bake the bisque for one hour.

8. Close the vent holes. If the kiln doesn’t have vent holes, close the door.

9. Bake the bisque until the glaze is dry. Depending on the size of the bisque, this may take between 30 and 60 minutes.

10. Open the door. Slide an enamel fork underneath the base plate of the kiln.

11. Lift the enamel fork and balance the base plate on it. Pull the enamel fork out of the kiln and set the base plate on a heat resistant surface.

Tips & Warnings

• If you use China paints, apply one thin layer at a time. Bake the bisque after each coat of China paint. Applying a thick coat of China paint will result in cracking.

References

• Paragon Ceramic Fiber Jewelry Kiln Instruction and Service Manual