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Basically, there are four principal kinds of glazes: feldspathic, lead, tin, and salt.

Here are four basic materials that can be combined to make a glaze: Silica is 100% SiO2. Potash Feldspar is 64.8% SiO2, 18% Al2O3, and 17% K2O. Whiting is 56.1% CaO. Kaolin is 47.3 SiO2, 40.2 Al2O3.

Glazes have different effects on clay surfaces. In ceramics, we refer to them as gloss or matte glazes. Gloss glazes create a shiny, reflective surface. Matte glazes make a dull surface and satin matte glazes create a semi-shiny surface that is smooth to the touch.

A basic understanding of glaze application and firing yields consistent and desirable results, as the key components of different glazes each have their own function. 01 of 04. Silica: The Glass-Former. ... 02 of 04. Alumina: The Refractory. ... 03 of 04. Flux: The Melting Agent. ... 04 of 04. Colorant: The Beautifier.

Today Pottery Clay has summarized them here so that potters can select it ing to their preferences. Clear Glazes (Clear Glazes/ Transparent Glazes) ... Opaque Glazes (Opaque Glazes) ... Luster Glazes (Luster Glazes) ... High Fire Glazes (High Fire Glazes) ... Intermediate Fire Glazes (Intermediate Fire Glazes)

Ceramic glaze, or simply glaze, is a glassy coating on ceramics. It is used for decoration, to ensure the item is impermeable to liquids and to minimise the adherence of pollutants. Glazing renders earthenware impermeable to water, sealing the inherent porosity of biscuit earthenware. It also gives a tougher surface.

Ceramic glazes consist of three main components: glass formers, fluxes, and refractories. If you can remember those, and familiarize yourself with the characteristics of the common ceramic raw materials, you are in good shape to start developing your own successful glazes.

There are essentially three types of glazes you'll find used in ceramics — matte, gloss, and satin — and Katie Mudd breaks down what we should know about each of these glazes below.