Choosing the right paint for your pottery is essential to achieving the desired aesthetic and ensuring the longevity of your piece. Whether you’re working with bisqueware, earthenware, stoneware, or porcelain, understanding the properties of different paint types and how they interact with various clay bodies and firing temperatures is key. The selection process involves considering factors such as durability, the desired finish (glossy, matte, etc.), ease of application, and whether the pottery is intended for decorative or functional use, especially if it will come into contact with food or liquids.
Acrylic paints are a popular choice for unglazed pottery, including air-dry clay, prized for their versatility, vibrant colors, and ease of use. They are non-toxic and fast-drying, making them suitable for various projects. However, acrylics are not heat-resistant and cannot withstand the high temperatures of a kiln. Therefore, pieces painted with acrylics are best suited for decorative purposes. To ensure the paint’s longevity on unglazed surfaces, it is important to apply a sealant after the paint has dried. Brands like Decola offer high-quality, pigment-dense acrylics specifically designed for ceramics and glass, providing a vibrant and long-lasting finish, especially when baked in a conventional oven. For projects that require intricate designs, paint pens with fine tips (0.7mm) can offer precision and control. In contrast, enamel paints, which are oil-based, offer excellent durability and heat resistance, making them suitable for glazed pottery that may be baked in an oven or kiln. Enamel paints adhere well to glazed surfaces, providing a beautiful, glossy texture and holding color over time. Spray paint can be effective for both glazed and unglazed pieces, offering a quick and even application. You can even explore the art of unlocking the magic of mocha diffusion in pottery, a technique that adds unique patterns to your pieces.
This great video from Good Elephant Pottery gives a comprehensive overview of glazing basics. It’s a must-watch for anyone interested in learning more about this important aspect of pottery.
Ceramic Glazes
Ceramic glazes represent a specialized type of “paint” used in pottery, requiring a firing process to achieve a permanent finish. Glazes are applied using various methods, including brushing, dipping, and spraying, each offering different effects. The firing process transforms the glaze into a glassy, durable surface, making it suitable for functional pottery. It’s important to consider that all clays and glazes are created to mature at specific temperatures, and any variance can lead to unsatisfactory results in ceramic durability or color. Low-fire glazes, for example, offer a wider range of colors, but may appear less refined than mid- or high-fire glazes. For glazed ceramics, porcelain paint is an excellent choice as it adheres better to the surface compared to acrylics and can be oven-cured for a waterproof and washable finish. Preparing the surface is crucial for successful painting. For glazed ceramics, sanding the surface can help the paint adhere better by removing some of the glaze. After sanding, wipe off any dust with a clean cloth. Applying a primer can also help the paint adhere and last longer. When painting, use even strokes in the same direction to achieve a consistent finish. Allow the piece to air dry thoroughly before applying additional coats or baking/sealing.
The Painting Process
The process of painting pottery involves several key steps, starting with thorough surface preparation to ensure optimal paint adhesion and a lasting finish. Whether working with glazed or unglazed ceramics, the initial steps are similar but tailored to the specific surface. Before beginning, ensure the ceramic piece is clean and dry, wiping away any dust or dirt with a moist cloth. For glazed ceramics, lightly sanding the surface with sandpaper can create microabrasions that allow the paint to adhere more effectively. After sanding, remove any dust with a clean cloth. Applying a primer is an important step to help the paint hold in place on the ceramic surface. This, combined with sanding, significantly improves the longevity of the paint job. Once the surface is prepared, select the desired paint colors and application method. Applying a small amount of paint to a palette helps control the amount used. When painting, use even strokes in the same direction to achieve a consistent, beautiful paint job. Allow the ceramic to air dry for several hours in a safe space where it won’t be disturbed. Depending on whether the pottery is glazed or unglazed, the finishing steps differ. For glazed pottery, after air drying, apply several layers of glaze and fire the piece in an oven or kiln to help the piece last even longer. For unglazed pottery, use a clear acrylic spray sealant to protect the design, ensuring the paint lasts longer. When adding designs, stencils and painter’s tape can be used to create straight lines or shade in sections of the piece. Remove stencils or tape carefully to avoid scratching the piece. For liquid underglazes, working in layers is best, as many aren’t at full strength until three layers are applied. For a more in depth look, check out this guide on how to paint on pottery.
Safety
When working with pottery paints and glazes, safety should always be a top priority to protect against harmful chemicals and ensure a safe working environment. The key to safety lies in understanding the potential hazards associated with different materials and adopting best practices to minimize risks. A hazardous chemical is defined by its intrinsic properties to cause harm, as determined by scientific studies. These chemicals can enter the body through inhalation, absorption through the skin or eyes, and ingestion. One of the primary concerns in a ceramic studio is the inhalation of dust, particularly crystalline silica, which can lead to silicosis, a chronic lung disease. To prevent inhalation, spray application of glazes and mixing dry glazes should only be done with a NIOSH-approved respirator. It is important to maintain a clean studio space by wet mopping or vacuuming with HEPA filters to reduce dust. Lead and cadmium are two proven toxic materials used in some glazes. Lead is used to improve glaze flow at low temperatures, while cadmium is used to create bright orange and red colors. Lead-glazed foodware can leach lead if not fired properly, leading to health issues such as damage to the nervous system, brain, and kidneys. It is recommended to use lead-free glazes whenever possible. A glaze labeled “lead-safe” means that the finished ware will not release lead into food or drink if fired properly. When working with glazes, it is essential to follow basic personal hygiene rules, including restricting eating, drinking, or smoking in the studio, and wearing personal protective equipment such as gloves and separate work clothes or coveralls. Always wash hands thoroughly after working with hazardous materials, even after removing gloves.
