As a pottery artist, one of the most exciting parts of the ceramic process is using underglazes to bring my works to life with color and design. Underglazes provide a versatile way to enhance and personalize my pieces, whether I’m adding subtle washes or bold patterns. While working with various underglaze techniques over the years, one product that has become a tried and true favorite of mine is Spectrum underglaze.
In this post, I wanted to share some of my favorite ways how to use spectrum underglaze along with tips and tricks I’ve learned that make the application process foolproof and fruitful.
Whether you are a seasoned ceramics artist or just starting out, I hope you find some useful knowledge to add multi-dimensional color pops to your next ceramic works using this wonderful underglaze. Let’s get started!
What Will You Need?
First things first, let’s make sure you have all the necessary items to use Spectrum Underglaze successfully. You will need:
- Spectrum Underglaze: This is a given!
- Bisque-fired pieces: The underglaze needs a porous surface like bisque ware to grab onto.
- Brushes and Sprayers: You will need appropriate brushes or sprayers depending on your desired result and technique.
- Water and Water Container: To dilute the underglaze if needed.
- Palette or Small Containers: To mix and hold your desired colors.
- Sgraffito Tools (Optional): For carving designs into dried underglaze layers.
- Clear Glaze (Optional): If you want to apply a glossy finish to your work.
Once you have all your materials ready, we can move on to the fun part – applying Spectrum underglaze!
8 Easy Steps on How to Use Spectrum Underglaze
1. Prepare Your Piece
Before using Spectrum underglaze, it is essential to prepare your piece correctly. This includes cleaning the surface of the piece and making sure it is scorched. If you are using a ceramic piece, it should also be bisque-fired before applying underglaze.
2. Apply Underglaze
Spectrum underglaze can be applied with a brush, sponge, or airbrush for more intricate designs. Make sure to shake the bottle well before use and apply in thin layers for best results. You can also mix different colors to create new shades.
3. Fire Your Piece
Once you have finished applying the underglaze, let it dry completely before firing your piece in a kiln. The recommended firing temperature for Spectrum underglaze is cone 05-6 (1915-2232°F). Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for specific firing times and temperatures based on the type of clay and glaze used. After firing, your piece will have a vibrant and durable finish that can be further enhanced with a clear glaze.
4. Layering Techniques
Using Spectrum underglaze, artists can build up colors with multiple layers, refining their design and enhancing the intensity of their palette. Begin by applying a base coat and allowing it to dry thoroughly; then, add successive layers, letting each one dry before applying the next.
This method amplifies color depth and allows the opportunity to create intricate patterns and textures. Remember, the true color of the Spectrum underglaze emerges after firing, so consider the undertone of each layer as you build up your design.
5. Experiment with Sgraffito
Sgraffito is a fantastic technique to explore when using Spectrum underglaze. To do this, apply a thick layer of underglaze to your bisque ware. Once the underglaze has slightly dried to a leather-hard state, you can carve into it with sgraffito tools to reveal the clay body beneath.
This technique can produce dynamic, high-contrast designs highlighting the artist’s hand. It’s an excellent way to add texture and make each piece uniquely your own. Remember, the underglaze color will still show vibrant after firing, providing a beautiful contrast against the natural color of the clay.
6. Utilize Watercolor Effects
One of the lesser-known ways to use Spectrum underglaze is to leverage its properties to create watercolor-like effects. Dilute the underglaze with a small amount of water, using a palette or dish to achieve consistency. Then, with a soft brush, apply the diluted underglaze onto your bisque ware in gentle strokes that mimic the look of a watercolor painting. With this technique, the colors will blend beautifully on the surface, and you can create gradients that add a delicate, translucent quality to your work.
This soft and subtle approach can be especially effective for background areas or adding a wash of color over carved details. Be mindful that colors may slightly change during the firing process, so always test before applying to your final piece.
7. Try Slip Trailing
Slip trailing with Spectrum underglaze can produce textured, raised designs that add a unique dimension to your pieces. To do this, use an applicator bottle or a slip trailer filled with underglaze to squeeze out lines or shapes directly onto your bisque ware. Practice your design on a spare piece to get comfortable with the flow before committing to your final piece.
Once your underglaze slip-trailing is complete, allow the design to dry before firing it in the kiln. This will create a visual pop and physical tactility to the artwork, offering a different experience from flat-painted designs.
8. Incorporate Stencils and Stamps
Incorporating stencils and stamps when using Spectrum underglaze offers an excellent solution for those looking to achieve precise, repetitive patterns or shapes. Place your stencil on the bisque ware, and use a sponge or brush to apply the underglaze over it. When lifted, the stencil will reveal a crisp design, which you can replicate across your piece for uniformity.
Similarly, using bisque or foam stamps coated with underglaze allows you to create consistent motifs easily. This approach is perfect for artists who enjoy pattern-making or want to add intricate details without the freehand drawing. After application, allow your design to dry before firing the piece.
These simple steps allow you to incorporate Spectrum underglaze into your ceramic artwork easily. Experiment with different techniques and combinations to create unique and stunning designs that will make your pieces stand out.
5 Additional Tips and Tricks
- Test Colors on Test Tiles: Before applying Spectrum underglaze to your main piece, test the colors on small test tiles and fire them to your desired temperature. This will give you an accurate idea of the final color post-firing and help you avoid any surprises in your final piece.
- Mix for Custom Shades: Spectrum underglazes are inter-mixable, allowing customized shades to be created. Mix colors in different ratios to expand your palette and find the perfect hue for your project. Always record your recipes for future use.
- Use Synthetic Brushes for Smooth Application: Opt for high-quality synthetic brushes for a smooth and even application of Spectrum underglaze. Natural bristle brushes may leave unwanted texture or stray hairs in your glaze application.
- Keep Underglaze Consistency in Mind: Adjusting the consistency of the underglaze can aid in achieving different effects. For instance, a thicker application can be used for sgraffito, while a thinner consistency is excellent for watercolor effects or detailed painting.
- Protect Work Surface During Application: Underglazes can stain your work surface, so always protect it with a sheet of paper or a non-porous mat when painting. This keeps your workspace clean and allows you to test brush strokes before applying them to your piece.
By following these tips and tricks, you can make the most out of Spectrum underglaze and create beautiful ceramic pieces with vibrant colors and unique designs.
5 Things You Should Avoid
- Applying Underglaze on a Damp Bisqueware: Always ensure your bisqueware is completely dry before applying Spectrum underglaze. Moisture can cause the underglaze to smudge or not adhere properly, leading to uneven color or flaking after firing.
- Overworking the Underglaze: Apply the underglaze confidently and do not over-brush, as doing so can disturb the layers underneath and cause inconsistencies in the final appearance. Allow each layer to dry thoroughly before adding additional coats.
- Mixing Underglaze with Glaze: While Spectrum underglazes can be used with transparent glazes, avoid mixing underglaze directly with glazing compounds as it can alter the chemical properties and result in unexpected changes during firing.
- Ignoring Manufacturer’s Firing Instructions: Firing temperatures and times can significantly influence the outcome of the underglaze. Stay consistent with the recommended firing instructions provided by Spectrum, as it may negatively affect the color and quality of your finished product.
- Neglecting to Clean Brushes and Tools: After using underglaze, cleaning your brushes and tools is essential. Underglaze can dry quickly and become difficult to remove, potentially ruining your equipment and affecting future applications.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your Spectrum underglaze application goes smoothly and results in a successful finished piece.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Spectrum underglaze is a versatile and valuable tool for every ceramic artist to have in their arsenal.
Providing a wide range of colors, easy application methods, and durable results allows for endless possibilities and experimentation in the world of ceramics. With its ability to be used on any type of clay body and at various temperatures, it truly offers artists the flexibility they need to bring their visions to life.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced potter, Spectrum underglaze is a must-have for achieving vibrant and long-lasting designs on your pottery. From painting intricate designs to creating unique textures and effects, this product opens up a new world of creative possibilities.
So don’t be afraid to mix and match colors, play with different layering techniques, or even combine it with other glazes – the sky’s the limit when it comes to using Spectrum underglaze! Thank you for joining us on this journey of learning how to use spectrum underglaze. Happy potting!