LIQUID GLAZE ( BRUSHING GLAZE)

Liquid glaze is prepared ready to use.  However, as materials in some glazes tend to settle after standing, it is important to shake or agitate the container vigorously, then stir, before use.  If after shaking and stirring the glaze it is still too thick to load a glaze brush easily then it may be necessary to add a little water.

PRIOR TO GLAZING

Bisque fire the ware to its recommended temperature (minimum 1000°C).  Sponge bisque with a damp sponge to remove any dust which may have collected.  On narrow necked pieces where a sponge cannot work, use a clean damp brush.  Do not eat, drink or smoke whilst handing your work as any grease transferred to the bisque will resist glaze.  Although it may appear to cover grease spots when applied, glaze may crawl away when fired.

APPLICATION OF BRUSHING GLAZE

Once the container of liquid glaze has been shaken and stirred, load your glaze brush by immersing the hair up to the ferrule.  Remove the glaze from one side of the brush and apply the fully loaded side to the bisque.  As an approximate guide, a fully loaded brush will go about 80 mm before it should be re-loaded.  Apply one even coat, let the “wet” look disappear, then apply a second coat in the opposite direction. When the second coat has lost its “wet” look, apply a third coat in the same direction as the first.

GLAZING THE INSIDE OF NARROW NECKED PIECES

This process should be done before application of the exterior colour.  If using brush-on glazes exclusively, it will be necessary to thin some down for rolling the inside of any ware that cannot be reached by a brush.  Do not thin down a whole jar unless it is to be used only for rolling.  The addition of water will vary according to the original consistency, however as a rough guide, use three parts liquid to one part water.  Replace lid and shake thoroughly.  Pour thinned glaze into ware and roll piece around so the glaze can cover all internal surfaces. Pour out slowly whilst still rolling so the glaze can cover the internal lip of the ware.  Leave upside down for five minutes to drain.