Glaze Mixing 101 : The First Five
The first five was developed by Old Forge Cermics as an easy and inexpensive entry to glaze mixing that uses the same five basic ingredients. In this 3 part workshop we'll discuss some glaze mixing basics and mix 3 base glazes (gloss, floating and matte) so participants can do their own experiments with colorants. The idea is to allow participants to become comfortable with the mixing process and experiment a little. Each participant will mix their own set of base glazes that they will be able to experiment with.
Cost is $60 to be paid at or before the first workshop.
***NEW DATES***SEE BELOW***
Saturday 7/25
Brief introduction and our mixing day. We’ll make up three 500g base glazes (floating, glossy & matte) and mix tests using multiple oxides and stains. You’ll be able to fire your tests at both ^5 & ^6.
Please bring:
30 test tiles (feel free to bring more) made out of your favorite ^6 clay body or bodies. If you prefer you can use a bisque object that can be segmented to apply your tests onto one piece (for example I have a friend that does her glaze tests on a large bowl). If you won’t have test tiles please just let me know ahead of time and I’ll bring some (though it’s better for you to do tests with your own clay body to get repeatable results and check glaze fit).
A mask/respirator to use while mixing glazes. If you’re planning to use a mask a N95 is recommended.
Notebook & pen/pencil.
Optional: a scale that goes to at least I decimal point, immersion blender, sharpie. We will have some at the studio so it’s not essential to bring these. Note: I wouldn’t advise using the scale/blender on food after using to mix glazes.
Please bring a packed lunch as we will likely go to mid afternoon.
Saturday, 8/8
Review glaze test results and discuss basic glaze chemistry as well as further resources. I will chat about online resources, so feel free to bring a tablet or laptop if you want to have your own screen. The studio does have wifi. Expect to go at least 2 hours depending on your level of interest in glaze chemistry.
Please bring:
Notebook and pen/pencil. I will have hand outs you can use to take notes on but if you intend to start mixing your own glazes it’s a good idea to have a dedicated notebook (I typically use a small sketchbook or a graph paper notebook).
Box to bring your test tiles home.
