Learn about the cooking temperature of the slips and glazes

Every detail matters. And when it comes to glazes and enamels, choosing the right materials according to firing temperatures can be the difference between a spectacular piece or a total disaster. Let's explore the most common issues when this crucial factor is not taken into account.

Why Does Firing Temperature Matter?

Each glaze and slip is designed to react specifically to a range of temperatures. When the correct material is not chosen, the results can include:

Glazes that do not mature properly: If you use a glaze designed for high temperature in a low firing, it may become opaque or rough.

Dull or unexpected colors: Some pigments lose intensity or change color outside their optimal range.

Glaze peeling: When the glaze does not adhere well, it can come off or run, ruining the piece.

In summary, it will look old, dull, and sad.

Slips and Glazes for Low Temperature

In low-temperature firings (generally up to 1100 °C), glazes tend to be more vivid, and slips can remain porous if not vitrified. However, common issues include:

Overfiring: A low-temperature glaze in a firing that is too high can become opaque or even melt, distorting the piece. One must consider the cycles...

Incompatibility: Slips that are not formulated for low temperature may crack or separate from the piece.

Slips and Glazes for High Temperature

In high-temperature firings (1200 °C or more), glazes reach a level of vitrification that gives them durability and strength. But if you choose poorly:

Immature glazes: Low-temperature glazes will not vitrify properly, leaving a rough and non-functional surface.

Burnt slips: Some engobes lose their original color or texture at high temperatures, leaving dull results.

How to Prevent Mistakes When Choosing Glazes and Engobes

Here are some key tips to always get it right:

Consult the specifications: Always check the recommended temperature range on the glaze or engobe packaging.

Test: Before applying a glaze or engobe on a large scale, test on small pieces to see how it reacts in your oven and at your temperatures.

Know your oven: Not all ovens heat evenly. Make sure to know the hottest and coldest areas.

Adjust your expectations: Remember that certain materials can look different depending on the thickness of the application, the mix, and the final temperature.

The Cost of Not Choosing Well

Not getting the right materials can mean:

Loss of time and resources: Pieces that you need to redo or discard.

Frustration: Seeing how your creative ideas do not materialize as you expected.

Oven wear: Glazes that drip or melt can damage your oven plates, adding extra costs.

Choosing the right glazes and enamels according to firing temperatures is essential for achieving consistent results. Above all, our advice is that if you have a large project or high expectations for a job, you should test and thoroughly understand the yields, optimal points, and cycles of the materials. If you want to explore materials specifically designed for different firing ranges, you will find a high-quality selection for every need in our store. Experiment, try, and let your creations shine as they deserve!