Expert: Leisha Hiester - 1/26/2010

Question
Can glaze be removed via additional firing? Have an old low relief sculpted tile with two tone blotchy glaze which significantly distracts from carving of tile body. Would like to remove (burn off) existing glaze and MAYBE replace with one tone translucent glaze - or none would be an improvement over present situation. No knowledge of original materials or technique used. Am willing to sacrifice tile in process if any chance of success. Your thoughts please,
J.

Answer
Dear J.,
This is a tricky question. The only way I can think of that it could be removed this way is if the glaze applied is a low fire glaze and the tile is a high fire clay, which in your case, unless you made the piece would be nearly impossible to tell. Even, then it's a long-shot.

The only suggestion I can think of is to re-glaze the piece and re-fire it. If you assess what is currently on the piece and how you'd like it to look you'd have to ascertain a glaze that will mix with what's on it to give you the desired affect.

Do you have access to a kiln? Is there a studio in your area? If you tell me where you're located I could help you find someone to help.

Leisha