Which glaze should I choose? – a complete guide
This guide helps you quickly find the right glaze and provides tips for success—whether you’re a beginner or an experienced ceramicist.
Choosing the right glaze is crucial for how your ceramic project looks and functions. Different glazes produce different colors, textures, and effects, and the choice depends on the clay, firing temperature, and desired result.
Different types of glazes
Stoneware glazes (1200 °C–1300 °C)
- For high firing with durable and waterproof surfaces
- Perfect for mugs, plates, and functional ware
- Provides depth and often variation in color and texture
Earthenware glazes (1000 °C–1040 °C)
- For lower temperatures, common in hobby ceramics and schools
- More porous surface, requires glaze for waterproofing
- Ideal for decorative projects and experimental colors
Brush-on glazes
- Applied with a brush
- Provides full control over details and effects
- Perfect for small objects, decorative patterns, and effects
Dipping glazes
- Dip the object into glaze for an even and quick result
- Ideal for larger objects or batch production
- Can be combined with other techniques like trailing or bubbles for extra effects
Underglazes & engobes
- Applied before glazing
- Used for decorative details and color variation
- Combined with transparent glaze for different effects
Raku glazes
- Special glazes for low-temperature and smoky firing
- Produces unique, unpredictable effects every time
More types of glazes to explore
In addition to brush-on glazes, dipping glazes, and underglazes, you can also experiment with:
- Solid color glazes – create clean, clear surfaces and are perfect for decorative details
- Special glazes and fluxes for earthenware – create unique effects, depth, and variation in color and structure
Tips for choosing a glaze
- Check clay and temperature: Choose a glaze that matches your clay body and firing temperature
- Consider function: Will the object be used daily or be purely decorative?
- Always test first: Make test tiles before applying to the entire project
- Experiment with layers: Thick application creates movement, thin application gives subtle color
- Follow our guides: For detailed instructions on application, underglazes, and common mistakes, see our guides:
- How to apply glaze
- Underglaze & engobes
- Common glaze problems
Common mistakes to avoid
- Applying too thin → color becomes pale
- Applying too thick → risk of running and bubbles
- Not testing on different clays → results can vary greatly
- Skipping documentation → difficult to reproduce effects
Summary
Choosing the right glaze affects both appearance and function.
- Stoneware → durable, waterproof, high firing
- Earthenware → decorative, low firing, experimental
- Brush-on → control and detail
- Dipping → even and fast
- Underglaze/engobe → decoration before glazing
- Raku → random, dramatic effects
By combining the right clay, glaze, and technique, you can create unique, professional results. And don’t forget: test, document, and experiment!
Related products
- Brush-on glaze for stoneware
- Effect glaze for earthenware (brush-on)
- Solid color brush-on glaze for earthenware
- Special glaze for clay and stoneware
- Dipping glaze
- Underglaze & engobes
- Raku glaze
- Test tiles