How to Paint Glaze on Bisque
Glazes come in a range of styles and textures, providing an endless stream of creative possibilities. Some glazes produce a crackled texture while others offer a pearly, gloss finish. There are glazes that have a rough, sandy feel or ones with a smooth, soft, watercolor look. The variety of glaze options is endless, as are the techniques used to apply the glaze. While most glazes are applied with a brush, other techniques can provide a more unique look. Whatever technique you use, the key to beautiful glazing is twofold. First, get the right glaze for the look of your project. Second, make sure you know how and when to apply it.
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Things You'll Need
- Ceramic or pottery bisque
- Glaze paints
- Brush, sponge, or other paint application tool
Instructions
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Determine the finished look you want. Traditional glaze produces a glossy, smooth, nontextured look with one solid color or multiple colors. Consider the theme of the object, and choose a glaze that reflects an appropriate vision.
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Think about how you will use your finished piece. If the item will hold food, use a lead-free glaze only. A combination of glazes can be used for some items. For example, a bowl could be glazed with a smooth lead-free option on the inside and a more decorative glaze or a glaze decal on the outside.
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Decide on the technique you want to use. Each technique will create a different look and require a specific type of glaze. Use a traditional brush for an even layer of glaze. An airbrush will create a soft look with subtle tone variations. Dipping your piece into the glaze provides a heavy, saturated coat that can create random patterns of color. Underglazes provide a perfect opportunity for hand painting and creating fine details; a coat of clear overglaze will finish the look. Sponges are another marvelous glazing tool, offering a random pattern of splotchy, abstract spots of color.
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Lightly clean the surface of the bisque before glazing. Glaze will not stick to any area that is greasy, oily or otherwise dirty.
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Begin to add the glaze. For a look that is extra thick be sure the bisque is very dry before you start. Moisture from the wet glaze will soak into the bisque, causing it to adhere tightly to the surface of the piece. Too much moisture, however, will keep the glaze from adhering during firing and will create a thin, uneven look.
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Ensure that your piece is completely covered with glaze. Exposed bisque areas attract moisture that will ruin the piece over time.
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Allow each coat to dry thoroughly before adding another. Most glazes require at least two coats; check the directions for each glaze type. For dipping or pouring techniques, minimize the number of places required to handle the piece while glazing. Fill in unglazed spots and allow these areas to dry before adding another coat.
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Once dry, check the surface area of the glazed item for irregular or uneven paint. When using a glaze with crystallized color and texture, ensuring an even layer across the surface of the piece is essential. Look for areas with extra crystals or ones that appear to be applied thickly or heavily. Too much glaze in one location will ruin the random look and appeal of the finished product.
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Tips & Warnings
Don't be afraid to try new ways of applying glaze to bisque. Artists are always experimenting with new techniques that can add to the uniqueness of their piece.
When using underglazes be sure to check that your selection is meant for use on bisque. Traditional underglazes were designed for greenware, while more modern choices are designed for bisque.
If you are using a clear glaze over an underglaze, be sure to check the firing-temperature requirements of each paint. You may need to fire the underglaze layer first, then coat with an overglaze and fire the piece again.
References
- Photo Credit PhotoObjects.net/PhotoObjects.net/Getty Images
