Expert: Leisha Hiester - 9/13/2008

Question
QUESTION: Hi there is a small piece missing on my earthenware soap dish. It is part of a decoration. I know I could fix it if I knew what to use to build it. Would I use clay? Also would I add the paint to it or paint it after I fix it? Also how can I get it shiny?  I was thinking clear fingernail polish to make it shiny. any other suggestions?  Thanks so much for any help.

ANSWER: Marg,
If you knew what temp it was originally fired to, often pieces can be refired. Do you have a picture of the piece or could you shoot me one? That would help a great deal. If the nick isn't too big sometimes a glossy sealer will work. Is the decoration glazed?

There's a clay fix-it recipe I use in my studio. You mix 1 part  vinegar, 1 part Karo syrup, 1 part dry clay dust to a clay-like consistency. It is a strong glue-like slip or clay if mixed thicker. It works great for repairs, rejoining, etc.

Let me know if I can help further. Leisha

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Leisha I don't have any means to refire it.Here is a photo and what I'am wanting to repair is the end of the qurly q on the right, it is broken off. What I believe the hardest is to try and match paint.The soap dish is glazed. Thank you so much for your response and any help.

Answer
Marg,
Is there a ceramics studio in your town? Even a 'paint your own pottery' shop? I think they could help you file it down a bit to match & then reglaze & refire it. It appears to be a simple crackle glaze. Whatever city you're in or near probably has a shop.

Leisha