Glaze crawling is a common issue in ceramics where the glaze retracts and pulls away from the clay surface during firing, leaving bare patches. To fix glaze crawling and achieve a smooth, even glaze application, consider the following steps:
Surface Preparation
Ensure that the clay surface is clean, dry, and free from dust, oils, or contaminants before applying glaze. Proper surface preparation helps the glaze adhere more effectively.
Glaze Application
Apply the glaze in thin, even coats using a suitable method such as brushing, dipping, or spraying. Avoid excessive thickness, which can contribute to crawling.
Glaze Formulation
Adjust the glaze recipe if necessary. Adding a small amount of clay or a suspension agent to the glaze can improve its adhesion to the clay surface.
Glaze Compatibility
Ensure that the glaze is compatible with the clay body and firing temperature. Mismatched coefficients of thermal expansion can lead to crawling.
Firing Schedule
Follow the recommended firing schedule for the glaze. Gradual heating and cooling can help minimize the risk of crawling.
Refiring
If crawling persists, you can try refiring the piece with a slightly adjusted glaze application or firing schedule.
Conclusion
Addressing glaze crawling involves a combination of proper preparation, application, formulation, and firing techniques to achieve a flawless glaze surface on your ceramics.
