Oxides, primarily used in ceramics, are versatile coloring agents and can be applied in several ways to decorate and alter the appearance of clay and glazes.
Here's a breakdown of common techniques for using oxides:
- Direct Application to Clay (Greenware, Bisque):
- Brushing: Oxides mixed with water can be brushed directly onto greenware, bisque, or even glaze. This allows for fine detail and controlled application.
- Example: Applying iron oxide to greenware to create a rusty or antique look after firing.
- Incorporating into Slips:
- Creating Colored Slips: Adding oxides to clay slip (a liquid clay mixture) creates colored slips. These slips can then be applied to the surface of the clay body for decorative effects.
- Example: Adding copper oxide to create a green-colored slip for surface decoration.
- Applying Over or Under Glazes:
- Oxide Wash: Brush an oxide wash (oxide mixed with water) over an unfired glaze. During firing, the oxide will interact with the glaze, creating unique visual effects.
- Underglaze Decoration: Brush oxides onto bisque-fired clay, then apply a clear glaze over the oxide decoration. The glaze protects the oxide layer and enhances its color.
- Example: Applying cobalt oxide under a clear glaze to achieve a vibrant blue.
- Mixing with Ball Clay:
- Creating a Wash: Mix oxides with ball clay and water. Ball clay acts as a binder, helping the oxide adhere to the surface.
- Example: Using a wash of red iron oxide and ball clay to highlight texture on a ceramic piece.
- Layering Oxides:
- Creating Depth: Brush multiple oxides onto the surface, overlapping them in certain areas. This layering creates depth and visual interest as the oxides interact during firing.
- Example: Layering iron oxide and manganese dioxide to create a mottled brown and black surface.
Here's a summarized table:
| Technique | Description | Application Stage | Effects |
|---|---|---|---|
| Direct Brushing | Applying oxide mixed with water directly onto the clay surface. | Greenware, Bisque, Glaze | Fine detail, controlled color. |
| Slip Incorporation | Adding oxide to liquid clay slip to create colored slips. | Greenware | Overall color change, decorative patterns. |
| Over/Under Glaze | Applying oxide over or under a glaze layer. | Unfired Glaze, Bisque | Unique interactions, color enhancement, protection of the oxide. |
| Ball Clay Mixture | Mixing oxide with ball clay and water for better adhesion. | Greenware, Bisque | Highlighting texture, controlled application. |
| Layering | Applying multiple oxides in overlapping layers. | Greenware, Bisque, Glaze | Depth, visual interest, complex color combinations. |
Using oxides offers a wide range of possibilities for ceramic decoration, allowing for unique and personalized results. Experimentation is key to understanding how different oxides react with various clay bodies and glazes.
