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We answer frequently asked questions so that your glazing result can be the best possible!
Glaze
Glaze is made to be applied to ceramics to give the surface color, texture, character, and a durable finish. The glaze is applied after the object has been bisque fired (first firing) and is often made from, among other things, oxides, chemicals, and glass. When fired, the glaze melts in the kiln and becomes a glassy layer that protects the clay and, together with the object's shape and texture, forms the finished look. Brush-on glazes are easy to work with and are usually applied in two to three coats – but always read the instructions on the package, as this can vary. The result can be very different depending on which glaze you choose, how you combine multiple glazes, the temperature you fire at, and the type of surface you apply it to. Glazes come in many finishes, from glossy and matte to vibrant effect glazes with shimmer, depth, and variation.
Underglaze
Underglaze is a type of ceramic color used to decorate clay before it receives a protective layer of glaze. It is usually applied to bisque-fired ware, but can also be used on leather-hard or bone-dry clay, depending on the desired effect. Underglaze provides more precise and predictable colors than regular glaze, and is well-suited for patterns, illustrations, and details. It is often applied with a brush in one or more layers, and the result depends on the color, number of layers, firing temperature, and the underlying clay. To make the surface durable and suitable for use, the underglaze is usually covered with a transparent glaze (preferably zinc-free) before the final firing, which can affect both color and appearance.
High burnt
High-fired ceramics means that the clay, glaze, or underglaze is made to be fired at high temperatures. Ceramics can be fired at various temperatures, and when something is marked as high-fired, it usually means it is intended for temperatures around 1200–1300 °C (often equivalent to cone 6–10). High-fired glazes and underglazes must be used on ceramics intended for high firing to function correctly. If high-fired products are fired at too low a temperature, the glaze may become dry, dull, the wrong color, unfinished, or not melt as it should. Conversely, if fired too high, the glaze can flow too much, run off the ware, stick to the kiln, or in the worst case, damage both the ceramic and the kiln. Therefore, when a product is marked as high-fired, it is important to follow the recommended temperature for best results.
Low burnt
Low-fired ceramics means that the clay, glaze, or underglaze is formulated to be fired at low temperatures. Ceramics can be fired at various temperatures, and when something is marked as low-fired, it usually means it is intended for temperatures around 980–1060 °C (often equivalent to cone 04 – 06). Low-fire glazes and underglazes are only suitable for ceramics that are also intended for low firing. If used at higher temperatures than recommended, the colors may change, run, become dull, burn away, or in some cases damage the ware or the kiln. Therefore, when you see that a product is low-fired, it is important to check that it is suitable for the temperature at which you are firing your ceramics.
Food safe
When you see that a glaze is food safe, it can be used on
ceramics that come into contact with food and drink, such as
cups, plates and bowls. At Nordglaze, most of our products are
glazes and underglazes matte and you will always find clear
information about this in the product description or via icon.
Not food safe
When you see that a glaze is not food safe, such glazes should
do not use on surfaces that come into contact with food or drink,
such as the inside of cups and bowls. However, they can be used
safely on the outside of objects or for decorative purposes such as
lamps, sculptures and decorations.