Expert: Leisha Hiester - 11/12/2008

Question
can u please explain the differences?
when i paint on bisqueware i use duncan envision glazes.
when would i use an underglaze?
thanks,
karen

Answer
Karen,
An underglaze is designed to use beneath a glaze. Colors range from translucent to opaque. You can make solids to brushstrokes, shading & more. They were originally designed with the thought in mind to cover a large area with a solid color. They have come a long way & can even be airbrushed now too. Their advantage is that they are generally fairly close to the color they will be when fired, they can be applied to greenware or bisque & they give you flexibility. They're fired to the temperature of your clay. There are some colors that will fade slightly when fired, others become more brilliant. I always recommend testing in your kiln with a small test piece initially. If you use on greenware, you'll need to apply either a matte or gloss glaze after firing initially & refire again. OR, there are some underglazes, called Velvets that can remain the velvety finish without another glaze coat.
The glazes you're using, are just that. They are designed to glaze on bisque. Hope this helps. Feel free to write again if I haven't been clear. Leisha