How to Use Underglaze

Mastering the art of pottery involves not only skillful manipulation of clay but also an understanding of the diverse techniques used to enhance its beauty. Among these techniques, underglazing stands out as a versatile method for adding intricate designs and vibrant colors to ceramics.

In this guide, we delve into the world of underglazing, exploring its various applications and sharing tips for achieving stunning results. From understanding the composition of underglazes to learning different application methods, we’ll uncover the secrets to harnessing this technique effectively.

Whether you’re a seasoned ceramic artist or a beginner eager to experiment with new forms of expression, understanding how to use underglaze opens up a world of creative possibilities. So, join us as we embark on a journey to unlock the potential of underglazing and elevate your pottery to new heights of artistry and craftsmanship.

Understanding Underglaze

Underglaze is a specialized form of ceramic decoration that is applied to pottery before it undergoes its final glaze firing. It is composed of finely ground minerals, metal oxides for coloring, and a liquid medium that allows it to be applied smoothly onto the clay surface. What sets underglaze apart from other forms of pottery decoration is its ability to remain vivid and detailed through the high-temperature firing process, making it an ideal choice for intricate designs and intricate patterns.

Unlike glazes, which can flux and flow during firing, underglazes stay put, allowing for precision in artistic expression. They come in a wide range of colors, offering ceramic artists the flexibility to bring their visions to life with depth and vibrancy. Understanding the properties and behaviors of different underglazes is crucial for effectively using them to achieve the desired artistic effect.

Composition and Types

The composition of underglaze is critical to its function and aesthetic outcome in ceramic art. At its core, underglaze is made from a blend of clay, silica, and a flux mixed with colorants—usually metal oxides or stains—that provide its vibrant colors. This mixture is then added to a liquid medium, creating a paint-like substance that can be applied to pottery.

The clay content in underglaze ensures that it adheres well to the ceramic surface before firing, while the silica contributes to the hardness and durability of the design during the firing process.

Underglazes are available in various types, each suited to different artistic purposes and application techniques. The most common types include:

• Liquid Underglaze: Ready-to-use and ideal for painting, dipping, or spraying applications. Liquid underglazes are popular for their ease of use and the ability to mix colors to achieve custom shades.
• Underglaze Pencils: These are perfect for detailed line work and sketching on ceramics. They allow for precise control and can be used for intricate designs or writing.
• Underglaze Chalks: Best used for a softer, more diffused look. Underglaze chalks can create effects similar to watercolor on pottery and are ideal for blending colors.
• Underglaze Powders: Offered in a powdered form, these underglazes require mixing with water or a medium before application. They provide the flexibility to adjust the consistency of the underglaze to suit different techniques.

Each type offers unique advantages that cater to various artistic visions, making underglaze a flexible tool for ceramic decoration. Whether seeking bold and vivid colors with liquid underglazes or delicate shading with chalks, understanding the composition and properties of each type is essential for artists aiming to expand their creative repertoire in ceramics.

Chemical Composition of Underglaze

The magic of underglaze lies in its chemical composition, which allows it to withstand the extreme conditions of ceramic firing while retaining its vibrant colors. At the foundation of every underglaze is a mixture of clay, fluxes, and colorants that enable its unique properties.

The clay—often kaolin—is what provides the underglaze with its ability to stick to the ceramic piece before it’s fired. Fluxes, such as feldspar or boron compounds, are added to lower the melting point of the silica in the clay body, ensuring that the underglaze bonds well during the firing process without distorting the design.

Colorants are arguably the most critical component, giving underglaze its vivid palette. These are typically metal oxides or stains; for example, cobalt oxide creates rich blues, iron oxide produces earthy reds and browns, and chrome oxide gives greens. These metal oxides are stable at high temperatures, which allows the underglaze to maintain its color through the firing process.

Understanding the chemical composition of underglazes can help artists make informed decisions regarding their choice of materials, ensuring the longevity and vibrancy of their ceramic pieces. It enables artists to anticipate the outcomes of their work better, experiment with mixing their underglazes, and opens up further possibilities for innovation in the realm of ceramic art.

Exploring Different Types of Underglazes

The world of underglazes offers ceramic artists a rich array of options, each suited to specific techniques and artistic effects. Delving deeper into the available varieties can empower artists to choose the right underglaze for their project’s requirements. Here, we outline the fundamental types of underglazes and their distinct advantages:

• Liquid Underglaze: One of the most versatile types, liquid underglaze is ready for use straight from the bottle. It’s excellent for broad applications using brushes, sponges, or even through spraying techniques. Artists favor liquid underglaze for its ease of blending colors and creating smooth, consistent coats.
• Underglaze Pens and Markers: These tools are filled with underglaze liquid and are perfect for precision work, detailed drawing, or writing on ceramics. They combine the fluid application of paint with the control and ease of a pen, making them ideal for intricate designs.
• Underglaze Pencils: Underglaze pencils are best used dry on bisqueware for sketching or adding fine details. Once fired, the pencil marks become permanent, offering a unique tool for artists who wish to incorporate detailed line work and shading techniques.
• Underglaze Chalks and Crayons: For those looking to achieve softer, more diffuse effects similar to watercolor paintings, underglaze chalks and crayons are the go-to choice. They can be used on greenware or bisqueware to add layers of color that blend beautifully when wet.
• Underglaze Powders: Powders offer the most flexibility in terms of mixing and application techniques. Artists can control the thickness of the underglaze by adjusting the amount of water or mixing medium. This type is particularly useful for creating custom colors and for large-scale or highly textured applications.

Each type of underglaze presents its own set of characteristics and potential uses, enabling ceramic artists to experiment with a broad spectrum of decorative techniques. Whether aiming for sharp, precise lines, delicate shading, or bold and vibrant fields of color, understanding the pros and cons of each underglaze type can greatly enhance the artistic process.

Mixing and Blending Techniques

The art of mixing and blending underglazes is a skill that can dramatically expand the palette and potential of ceramic decoration. Mastering these techniques enables artists to create a wide range of hues, gradients, and effects not readily available straight from the container. Here are some foundational approaches to mixing and blending underglazes:

• Color Mixing: Similar to mixing paints, liquid underglaze colors can be combined to create custom shades. It’s beneficial to start with primary colors, adding small amounts of the secondary color until the desired hue is achieved. Testing on a small piece of clay before application ensures the mix dries to the expected color.
• Layering: Applying different underglazes in layers can produce unique color combinations and textures. Allowing each layer to dry partially before applying the next prevents colors from blending undesirably. This technique can achieve depth and richness in the artwork.
• Wet on Wet: For a more fluid and organic effect, artists can apply one wet underglaze over another. This method allows the colors to naturally blend and spread into each other, creating smooth transitions and gradients.
• Sgraffito: This involves applying layers of underglaze and then scratching or carving through the top layer to reveal the color beneath. Sgraffito is excellent for achieving intricate designs and contrasts between colors.
• Watercolor Effect: By diluting liquid underglaze with water, artists can achieve a watercolor effect. Applying these diluted underglazes to bisqueware allows for soft, flowing transitions between colors and a translucent finish.
• Dry Brushing: Applying a relatively dry brush of underglaze over a drier underglaze layer creates textured, brush-stroke effects. This technique is particularly useful for highlighting details or adding a rustic touch to the piece.

Understanding and experimenting with these mixing and blending techniques can open up a world of creativity for ceramic artists. The key to mastering underglaze application lies in practice and experimentation, as the ceramic surface and firing process can affect the final outcome in unexpected ways.

10 Methods How to Use Underglaze

1.Understanding Underglaze Composition and Types:

Begin with a comprehensive understanding of underglaze, its composition, and types available. Commercial underglazes come in a wide range of colors and finishes, while artists can also create their own underglaze mixtures. Knowing the properties of different types of underglaze will help you choose the right one for your project.

2.Preparation of Ceramic Surface:

Proper preparation of the ceramic surface is crucial for successful underglaze application. Clean the surface thoroughly to remove any dirt, dust, or oils that may affect adhesion. Smooth out any imperfections or rough spots to ensure an even application of underglaze.

3.Selection of Tools and Brushes:

Choose the appropriate brushes and tools for applying underglaze based on the desired effect and level of detail. Soft-bristled brushes are ideal for smooth, even application, while finer brushes are suitable for intricate designs. Additionally, consider using sponges, stamps, or stencils for alternative application techniques.

4.Application Techniques:

Experiment with various application techniques to achieve different effects with underglaze. Brushing, spraying, dipping, and pouring are common methods used to apply underglaze to ceramic surfaces. Each technique offers unique possibilities for creating texture, depth, and visual interest in your artwork.

5.Layering and Blending Colors:

Explore the creative potential of layering and blending different colors of underglaze to create depth and complexity in your designs. Apply multiple layers of underglaze to build up intensity or blend colors together while the underglaze is still wet for seamless transitions and gradations.

6.Detailing with Underglaze:

Use underglaze to add intricate details and fine lines to your ceramic pieces. Experiment with various brush strokes, dotting techniques, and surface embellishments to enhance the visual appeal of your artwork. Underglaze is particularly well-suited for creating delicate patterns, intricate motifs, and realistic imagery.

7.Sgraffito and Carving Techniques:

Explore sgraffito and carving techniques to create intricate designs and textures in your underglazed ceramics. After applying a layer of underglaze, use a sharp tool to scratch or carve through the surface to reveal the underlying clay body. This technique allows for precise detailing and adds depth and dimension to your artwork.

8.Stenciling and Masking:

Incorporate stenciling and masking techniques into your underglaze work to achieve consistent patterns and shapes. Use adhesive stencils or masking tape to create crisp edges and defined areas of color. Stenciling is an excellent way to add geometric designs, repetitive motifs, or intricate borders to your ceramic pieces.

9.Mixing Underglaze with Other Mediums:

Experiment with mixing underglaze with other mediums such as oxides, stains, or glazes to create custom colors and effects. Adding oxides or stains to underglaze can alter its color palette and introduce interesting variations in tone and intensity. Similarly, layering underglaze with glazes can produce unique surface textures and finishes.

10.Firing and Finishing Techniques:

Follow proper firing procedures to ensure the longevity and durability of your underglazed ceramics. Pay attention to firing temperatures, ramp rates, and hold times specified for the type of underglaze used. After firing, consider applying a clear glaze over the underglaze to protect the surface and enhance its appearance. Experiment with different finishing options such as satin, matte, or glossy finishes to achieve the desired effect.

Things to Consider

When working with underglaze on ceramics, there are several key considerations to keep in mind to achieve the best outcomes:

• Test Firings: Before applying a new underglaze or technique to a final piece, conduct test firings on sample tiles or small objects. This will allow you to observe how colors and effects change through the firing process and make adjustments as needed.
• Work Environment: Maintain a clean and organized work environment. Underglaze particles can be fine and spread easily. Keeping your workspace tidy helps prevent cross-contamination of colors and ensures accurate application.
• Health and Safety: Always wear appropriate protective gear, such as masks or gloves, when handling underglazes, especially in powder form, to prevent inhalation or skin contact with potentially harmful materials.
• Underglaze Consistency: The consistency of your underglaze can significantly affect its application and final appearance. Adjust with water or a medium specific to underglazes to achieve the desired thickness for your technique.
• Compatibility with Clays and Glazes: Not all underglazes perform the same on different clay bodies or under different glazes. Test how your chosen underglazes interact with the clays and overlying glazes you plan to use to avoid unexpected results.
• Timing of Application: The stage at which you apply underglaze (leather-hard, bone-dry, or bisque) will affect its adhesion, appearance, and how it interacts with the clay body. Consider the most appropriate timing for your specific project.
• Storage and Handling: Properly store underglazes to maintain their viability over time. Liquid underglazes should be kept tightly sealed to prevent drying out, while powders should be stored in a dry place to avoid clumping.
• Documentation: Keep detailed records of the underglazes, techniques, and firing schedules used for each project. This documentation is invaluable for reproducing successful results and troubleshooting any issues.

By keeping these considerations in mind, ceramic artists can more effectively and safely experiment with underglazes, pushing the boundaries of their creativity while ensuring the quality and durability of their finished pieces.

Conclusion

In conclusion, mastering the art of underglazing is not merely about applying colors to pottery but about unleashing creativity and expression onto ceramic surfaces. Through this guide, we’ve explored the techniques and considerations necessary to wield underglaze effectively, from understanding its composition to experimenting with application methods.

Whether used for intricate designs, bold patterns, or subtle accents, underglaze offers endless opportunities for artistic exploration and personalization in pottery. As you continue on your journey with underglazing, remember to embrace experimentation, learn from both successes and failures and allow your imagination to guide your creations.

With dedication and practice, you’ll find that underglaze becomes not just a tool but a medium through which you can bring your unique vision to life, transforming each piece of pottery into a masterpiece of color and form. Now that you know how to use underglaze. While it does take a few steps each time, hopefully now you understand the process and why it’s worth taking the extra step to make sure your floor is properly cared for. So don’t wait any longer, take action today!