When you pick up a beautiful ceramic mug or plate, it’s easy to fall in love with the smooth, shiny surface or the rich, layered colours. But have you ever wondered how that magical finish happens? It's all thanks to a fascinating process called glazing.
At Sajo Ceramics, we pride ourselves not just on creating beautiful pieces, but also on sharing the story behind them. Let's take a peek behind the scenes!
What Exactly Is Glazing?
Glazing is the process of applying a special coating to a piece of pottery before it is fired in a kiln for a final time. This coating, which often looks like thick, coloured paint when applied, melts during firing to form a smooth, glass-like surface.
Glazes do two main things:
- Make ceramics waterproof and food-safe
- Add beautiful colours, textures, and finishes
Without glaze, most pottery would be porous and could easily stain or crack.
Different Types of Glazes
There are endless glaze options, each creating a different effect. Here are a few favourites we love to work with at Sajo Ceramics:
- Glossy Glaze: A high-shine, glassy finish that makes colours pop.
- Matte Glaze: A soft, smooth finish with a more natural, understated look.
- Celadon: A translucent, often pale green glaze that reveals intricate designs underneath.
- Raku: A unique technique where the pottery is removed from the kiln while red-hot, resulting in smoky, unpredictable patterns.
Every glaze we use is carefully chosen to enhance the beauty and feel of our handmade pieces. Check out our Mayco Jungle Gem Crystal Glazes.
How Glazing Works
Here’s a simple version of what happens:
- Bisque Firing: The pottery is first fired without glaze to make it hard but still porous.
- Glaze Application: The glaze is brushed, dipped, sprayed, or poured onto the bisque-fired pottery.
- Final Firing: The glazed piece is fired at high temperatures, causing the glaze to melt and fuse to the surface.
When everything goes perfectly, you get that stunning, durable finish that makes every meal, sip, or centerpiece feel extra special.
Why It Matters
Great glazing is a combination of art and science. Every product you pick up at Sajo Ceramics has been through careful selection — ensuring not only beauty but also lasting quality.
Want to see the magic for yourself? Explore our full range of glazes here and find an option that speaks to you!