Project Work & Creative Applications

Module 6: Project Work & Creative Applications

1. Hands-on Glazing Projects

This module focuses on applying learned techniques through structured experimentation and creative execution.

A. Creating Test Tiles for Experimentation

• Purpose: Test glaze interactions, textures, and firing results before committing to final pieces.

• Methods:

• Grid Testing: Apply different glaze combinations on a single tile (e.g., Layer Glaze A over Glaze B).

• Texture Tests: Add sand, grog, or silicon carbide to sections.

• Firing Variations: Fire tiles at different temperatures or schedules (e.g., oxidation vs. reduction).

• Documentation:

• Label each section with glaze codes (e.g., G12 = Cobalt Blue + Rutile).

• Photograph results and note observations (crawling, color shifts).

B. Designing a Finished Piece with Advanced Techniques

• Process:

• Plan: Sketch the design, marking glaze layers, resists, or carving areas.

• Execute: Combine 2+ techniques (e.g., wax-resist patterns + spray gradients).

• Fire Strategically: Account for glaze run (e.g., place on stilt if glossy).

• Example Project:

• Celadon Vase with Sgraffito:

• Apply wax resist, carve vines, then dip in celadon glaze.

• Fire in reduction for blue-green translucency.

2. Developing a Personal Glaze Palette

A signature palette distinguishes your work and ensures consistency.

A. Recording Recipes and Results

• Glaze Journal Template:

• Recipe: Ingredients (e.g., 50% feldspar, 30% silica).

• Application: Dipping thickness, layers.

• Firing: Temp, schedule, atmosphere.

• Outcome: Color, texture, defects (photo attached).

• Digital Tools:

• Apps like Glazy or spreadsheets to track variables.

B. Custom Mixing for Unique Finishes

• Blending Commercial Glazes:

• Mix 70% Matte Base + 30% Transparent for semi-matte.

• From Scratch:

• Start with a base recipe (e.g., cone 6 transparent), then:

• Add 5% copper for green.

• Replace 10% feldspar with dolomite for matte.

• Experimentation:

• Test small batches (100g) before scaling up.

Workshop Activities:

1. Test Tile Matrix:

• Create a 4x4 grid testing layering (e.g., Shino over Tenmoku).

2. Signature Piece:

• Craft a mug using three techniques (e.g., mishima, underglaze, overglaze luster).

3. Glaze Diary Entry:

• Record a custom recipe’s results, including unexpected outcomes.

Pro Tips:

• Recycle Failed Tests: Crush tiles for grog in future clay bodies.

• Share Findings: Swap glaze logs with peers to discover new combinations.