If you want to add some new depth and personality to your pottery, you should explore and experiment with layering glazes. When you apply two or more glazes on top of each other, they melt together and interact while in the kiln. You’ll create new colors and textures you wouldn’t be able to get from just a single glaze. Before you start layering, it’s important to know the basics, such as:
- How many coats of glaze do you need
- Which glazes blend well together
- How to avoid common mistakes
Whether you’re a beginner or just want a refresher course before loading up the kiln, this article will give you a clear process you can start using on your projects today.
Key Takeaways
- Layering glazes means you apply two or more glazes on top of each other. The glazes interact in the kiln to create new colors, textures, and effects on your pottery.
- Before adding a new layer, let the first layer of glaze dry to the touch. This is a beginner-friendly way to avoid common mishaps like bubbling or peeling.
- Start small. Try experimenting with two layers of glaze before moving to more. Extra layers create a thicker glaze, and it can increase the risk of running or glaze pooling.
- Keep the glaze types together for the most predictable outcome. Glossy glazes work with other glossy glazes, and matte glazes pair with matte.
- Run a test on some spare pieces before going all-in on a new layering idea, so you can know what to expect.
- Layered glazes can run while in the kiln, so make sure you have a shelf protector.
What Does It Mean to “Layer” a Glaze?
Layering a glaze means you apply one glaze, let it set, and then apply another glaze directly on top of it. When the piece goes into the kiln, the glazes interact and melt together. The firing transforms the glazes into a new surface with its own unique color and texture.
Layering a glaze is different than simply mixing the glazes in a container before you apply it to the clay. Because you let the glaze dry before applying another layer on top of it, each glaze maintains its own character before blending during the firing process.
How Long Should I Wait Between Applying Glaze Layers?
This is one of the most common questions we hear from new potters who are beginning to experiment with layering. Should you let the first layer dry completely, or can you apply the second glaze while it’s still wet?
Depending on your experience level and goals, both approaches can be used to create some beautiful designs.
Why Most People Let the First Glaze Layer Dry
Allowing the first layer to dry out before applying your next glaze layer is the most common method. Allowing it to dry first gives you distinct layers and reduces the risk of the glazes smearing during your second application.
What Happens if the Glaze Is Still Damp?
If you apply your second glaze layer while the first is still slightly damp, the glazes will blend more at the edges and create a soft transition. This method takes practice to nail your consistent look, since too much moisture can cause the glaze layers to slide or lift off.
How Many Glaze Layers Are Too Many?
If you are new to layering glazes, we recommend starting with two layers. This allows you to learn the basics of how the glazes behave together, and then you can work up to adding three or four layers for even more effect.
Each additional layer of glaze adds thickness to your piece, and thickness can cause problems during firing such as glaze running, pinholing, or even getting stuck to your kiln shelf.
Here’s a good rule of thumb for glaze layering: If you are using three or more layers, apply the top layer only in the top quarter of the piece or on the rim. This gives gravity less glaze to pull down as it melts in the kiln, and it reduces the risk of pooling and sticking to your shelf.
What Glazes Layer Well Together?
Glazes do not necessarily follow the same rules as color theory, meaning layering yellow over blue doesn’t mean you’ll always end up with a reliable green.
Here are a few guidelines to help you layer glazes with predictable results out of the kiln:
- Match Your Finishes: Layer your glossy glazes with other glossy glazes, and mattes with other mattes. If you combine glossy and matte, the results are harder to predict.
- Remember Glaze Movement: Some glazes will stay put after you put them in the kiln. Others may be more runny. Layer your runny glaze with a stable one, and the layers could run even more, so plan accordingly.
- Stick to Matching Brands: Mixing brands of glazes can work, but glazes from the same product line are created to interact well with one another.
- Create Contrast for Bolder Results: If you layer two similar tones together, the layering will be muted and subtle. For a bolder glaze layer, combine contrasting colors.
Application Tips When Layering Glazes
Here are a few practical tips that can make a big difference in your results:
Use Consistent Thickness
We recommend applying each coat to the thickness of a dime. If your coat is too thin, the color may washout and not pop. If your coat is too thick, you risk peeling before firing even begins.
Brushing Gives More Control Than Dipping
If you’re looking for control of your layer applications, brushing generally gives you more control in multi-color effects. You can use a brush to accurately apply each layer.
Try Using a Wax Resist
To keep glaze exactly where you want it, you should try using a wax resist. It’s easy to brush on and burns off during firing.
Use a Sieve
You can use a sieve to get your glaze smooth and ready to apply. It’s simple, effective, and a must-have for any serious glazing setup.
Most Importantly, Make Layering Fun!
One of the best parts about learning pottery techniques is experimenting! Even the most experienced potters still experiment and test new glaze layer combinations. The kiln is full of surprises! We recommend starting with two glazes you already love. Take some good notes throughout your process, and don’t be discouraged if it doesn’t turn out like you hoped. Some of the coolest and most unique glaze discoveries happen by accident.
Call us at 888-838-3625 or email info@clay-king.com to get started.
Still figuring out where to start? The Clay-King team is here to help. We’ve spent a lot of time thinking about glazes, and we love matching potters to the right products for their projects and skill levels. Give us a call at 888-838-3625 or send us an email at info@clay-king.com and we’ll be happy to point you in the right direction.
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