The Magic and Chemistry of In-glaze Lusters
Part science and part alchemy, in-glaze lusters are a special glaze containing metals (bismuth, silver) that develop fascinating iridescence when reduction fired.
Participants will have the opportunity to work with mid-fire luster glazes in a hands-on fashion and leave with an extensive knowledge of glaze chemistry. Attendees will undoubtedly see how incredibly variable these glazes are!
In this 3 day workshop, participants will glaze their own bisque ware that we will fire in the gas kiln with a reduction cooling. Additionally, Lisa will discuss the chemistry of luster glazes, multiple methods of post fire reduction and how she approaches glaze testing and development. She will share her results from extensive testing and experimentation.
Notes: Luster glaze is quite runny, so it is recommended that pieces are fired on a riser and catch plate (like is done with crystalline glazes) or on wadding on a kiln washed cookie with walls. Some of the glazes will contain silver nitrate, which stains- gloves will be provided, but attendees should wear clothing they do not mind getting stained on Friday.
Timeline: February 19 – 21, 2027
Friday- ½ day session- glaze work and load kiln
Saturday-reduction cooling, introduction to luster glazes and glaze chemistry
Sunday- Lisa’s approach to glaze testing and experiments with luster glazes, unload kiln, examine results and finish off pieces (removing catch plates and grinding)
Preparing work for the workshop:
Luster glazes are highly variable and a workshop setting introduces new variables. Approach the workshop with a sense of experimentation!
Cone 6 bisqueware (maximum 4 pieces, 12″ by 6″ size including height of wadding/riser and catch plate)
Make catch plates/risers or cookies for each piece. Video to be provided for guidance.
Cone 6 clay only- Lisa works with Standard’s 365 porcelain. Many other clays will work, but Standard 266, 182 and Laguna Bmix have demonstrated excessive blistering.
Liner glazing should be done at least a day ahead of time to minimize pinholes. Plan to only apply luster glaze to one side of piece to minimize pinholes.
White liner glazes may develop a yellowish fuming, may want to use a dark liner glaze.
Luster glazes will be applied by brushing.
Location:
Casa Ferber
23777 SW 152 Ave
Homestead Fl 33032
General Class Refund and Cancellation Policy:
For a refund/ cancellation, please cancel a week prior to the start of the workshop and it must be in writing to info@anhingaclaystudios.com Any cancellations after the week prior to the start of the workshop will not be honored and your fee will not be refunded.
Please arrive 10 minutes before your workshop starts.
If you are purchasing using a credit card the credit card fees for transaction will not be refunded 3.9%. If you pay in cash, you get a full refund.
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