Glazing 101 Workshop – Kevin Herzberg

Bring a bisqued pot to glaze, or just watch and learn. This is a beginner level overview, perfect for studio pass users who haven’t had a recent class at the WAC. Learn the pros & cons of our different kinds of glazes, best methods to apply glaze on different shapes of pots, and how to avoid common glaze flaws. We’ll demonstrate how to do it right, and show finished examples of the good, the bad, & the ugly. There will be time for Q&A and coaching as you glaze the piece you brought.

1. The different kinds of glaze.

• Pros and cons of the different sets of glazes at WAC: cone 10, Raku. Where to put each type of glazed ware to get fired.
• What is glaze made of (glass former, stabilizer, flux, colorant), why it needs to be stirred thoroughly, why & how to avoid cross-contamination, matte vs glossy.
• Hazard of ingestion or breathing glaze dust – wet-wipe all spills.

2. Methods

• How to apply glaze: brushing, dipping and pouring
• Demonstrate use of wax, whisk, tongs, ladle, measuring cups
• How to dip or pour glaze onto different shapes – plate, bowl, mug, vase
• Layering glazes – some of the coolest combos (finished example pieces, tell how glazes were applied)

3. How to avoid common glaze challenges:

• Avoid drips, chips, bald spots, pinholes, running, crawling.
• How much glaze is enough, how much is too much,
• How to work with glazes that run (interior of bowls, rims only)
• Use of cookies to avoid $$ shelf damage

4. (If there’s time) how different shapes of feet on a pot make it easier to glaze.

Limited to 15 students age 16 years & up.

$20 for 1 day workshop

Wednesday March 20. 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.