Tips

We all have our tips and tricks, here are things I've learned through experience! I'll probably update this page a lot!

If you are visiting a paint-on-pottery studio for the first time, and want to make a successful project, put some ideas together! Look on Pinterest or Google images to see current trends or themes. Use a pencil and paper to practice drawing. If it's a very specific design, you can use saral paper to transfer a design. Just make sure not to use a copyrighted image unless it is only for personal use.

I use Bic mechanical pencils to draw my designs on bisque. It burns off during firing. I've heard of other pencil leads that don't burn off, but these do. You can also use a ballpoint pen or marker, but I like to use a pencil so I can erase if needed. 

TIP: Don't erase too much if you have already applied underglaze, the eraser will remove that as well.

Always make sure you work area is free and clear of debris. You'd be surprised at what can show up on a fired piece! This goes for the kiln area as well.

Beware of black! It tends to smear for me during the glazing process. I don't dip, I brush or sponge on the clear glaze. I coat everything and leave black for last. I like to paint my mug rims with black, so I apply the glaze, then lightly sand the rim, then apply the black on the rim. So far, so good!

I make a lot of small pieces from clay. I was told to fire them bone dry at Cone 04, slow speed, but I actually fire them bone dry at Cone 06, medium speed. I think if I had bigger pieces, I would do the more formal process.