What are Bisque Glazes and Utopia Glazes?
Vibrant Red, Dragon Red, Tangerine and Poppy Orange comprise a series
of exceptionally bright and beautiful glazes. They are more sensitive
to kiln atmosphere than the usual glaze. However, with simple precautions
they may be reliably fired. The important factor is to maintain oxidizing
conditions within the kiln. This may require leaving the peephole plugs
out for an extra fifteen to thirty minutes. In general, a good rule to
follow is to fire glaze and greenware separately. As Bisque Glazes should
be applied heavily, an extra coat or two of these glazes is recommended.
High or sharp points and edges would benefit from an initial coat of UR-90
Bright Red Under Red when using Poppy Red Glaze, BG-644.
How do I use Bisque Red Glaze?
Apply 4 flowing coats to shelf cone 04 bisque, with a soft oval or square
glaze brush of suitable size for the ware being glazed. How full and frequently
you load the brush has a definite bearing on the amount of glaze being
applied. Distribute the applications evenly and in various directions,
being careful not to overwork the glaze. Allow to dry. Properly fire to
shelf cone 06.
What is the recommended drying time between coats when using Mayco's
Bisque Red Glazes?
The sheen and wet appearance should be gone before proceeding with the
next application of glaze. This time will vary based on weather and working
conditions. If working on a humid day allow more drying time. As a general
rule, within 30 minutes you should be able to proceed with the next coat.
Is there a recommended drying time after applying red glaze before
it is fired?
Moisture is something that contaminates red glaze in the firing. Therefore,
we recommend your glaze to dry thoroughly (at least overnight) before
firing.
Can Bisque Red Glazes be applied to greenware?
This particular group of red glazes should not be applied or fired with
greenware.
Can the Bisque Glazes be intermixed to obtain other colors of red?
Yes, you may intermix the bisque glazes EXCEPT for BG-641 Imperial Yellow.
This glaze cannot be mixed with anything.
Is it possible to use a Bisque Red Glaze and a green glaze on the
same piece, side by side?
YES! A major benefit to using Mayco Glaze is the reds and greens do not
contaminate each other in the firing. Beautifully decorated Christmas
items can easily be created using any of Mayco's reds and greens.
What causes white edges on corners, rims or detailed pieces with Red
Glaze?
White edges on corners or highly detailed items are due to the sharpness
of the edge or detail. The best way to avoid white corners is to round
the edge when cleaning the greenware. Detailed items are a different situation.
It is best to consider these white edges on detail as the highlight. Highlights
are the highest areas of an item. High or sharp points and edges would
benefit from an initial coat of UR-90 Bright Red Under Red when using
Poppy Red Glaze, BG-644.
What causes red to fire grayish white or to smoky red?
Several things can contribute to this look, with the major cause being
poor ventilation. Red glazes especially need plenty of air circulating
evenly in the kiln for the color to develop. Insufficient glaze application
can also result in this same look.
What causes black specks in red glaze?
Generally, specks are caused by the contamination from a dirty brush,
dust, metal particles (metallic stains, glitter), or impurities on the
clay. A clean brush and work area will eliminate most of these specks.
Can Red Glaze be thinned?
Yes. We suggest using AC-304 Media or distilled water when thinning. Media
not only thins, but also adds a preservative, keeping the color moist
longer. Using distilled water is a way of ensuring the water has not been
filtered through a water softening system. The small amount of salt from
softened water will bleach out the red.
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