How to Glaze a Pot

A simple terra-cotta pot can be glazed to create a beautiful finish.

Simple terra-cotta pots can be made into works of art by applying a glaze to finish them. There are three types of glazes in use today, so selecting the correct one for the type of finish you want is essential. An underglaze is used when you want to do detailed hand painting on the pot. A brush-on glaze is used when brushstrokes are a part of the look of the finished product. A dipping glaze creates a smooth finished look. Regardless of the type of glaze, the pot will need to be fired in a kiln to achieve the completed result.

Things You'll Need

• Terra-cotta pot
• 100-grit sandpaper
• Sponge
• Paraffin wax
• Glazing mix
• Dipping tongs (optional)
• Kiln

Instructions

1. Check the pot for rough edges and other imperfections. Sand the pot smooth and use a damp sponge to lift off all the dust.

2. Place the bottom of the pot in a shallow bowl of liquid paraffin wax, immersing the pot about 1/4 inch. Turn the pot upside down and let the wax dry. This step will keep the glaze from adhering to the bottom of the pot, allowing it to be fired in the kiln without sticking to floor of the oven.

3. Fill the pot halfway full of glaze. Quickly turn and rotate the pot to coat the entire inside. Pour out any excess glaze and clean off the top rim with a sponge. Allow the glaze to dry to the touch.

4. Dip the top edge into the glaze, about 1/2 inch.

5. Pick up the pot immediately, either with the dipping tongs or by inserting your fingers into the dry part of the inside of the pot. Use firm pressure on either side of the pot to hold it and dip the pot into the glaze. Avoid touching the wet rim of the pot. Hold in the glaze 5-6 seconds only.

6. Allow the glaze to dry before firing it in a kiln. The kiln must reach a temperature of at least 2000 degrees before the glaze will bond with the pot. Let the pot cool slowly for 24 hours before removing it from the kiln.

7. Give the pot a final sanding and dusting.

References

• How To Make Pottery: Glazing and Firing Pottery
• Lakeside Pottery: Successful Glazing
• Lockett Pots:

Resources

• Lakeside Pottery: Glazing Cheat Sheet