Underglaze can be applied to both greenware and bisque-fired clay, and the choice between the two stages depends on the desired results and techniques you want to achieve in your ceramics.
Greenware Application
Applying underglaze to greenware has certain advantages:
- Underglaze is absorbed by the porous surface of the greenware, resulting in vibrant colors and a watercolor-like effect.
- Greenware allows for blending and feathering of colors directly on the clay surface.
- Underglaze can be carved, incised, or manipulated on greenware to create intricate designs.
Bisque Application
Applying underglaze to bisque-fired clay offers its own benefits:
- Underglaze colors remain truer to their original shades after firing.
- Bisque firing ensures that the underglaze does not mix or blend with the clay body.
- Applying underglaze to bisque allows for controlled and precise placement of colors.
Techniques
The choice of application stage depends on the techniques you want to use. For detailed designs, carving, and blending, greenware may be preferred. For controlled color placement and true color representation, bisque application is a better choice.
Conclusion
Both greenware and bisque stages offer unique opportunities for underglaze application, and the decision should be based on the specific visual effects and techniques you want to achieve in your ceramic pieces.