Expert: Leisha Hiester - 2/21/2010

Question
QUESTION: Hi. I would like to purchase clay for making, and subsequently firing tiles to install on the wall of my kitchen. What exactly am i looking for? What cone am I firing to? And lastly, what type of glazes would I use for kitchen tile? (Close to food products). Thank you sooooo much!

ANSWER: Kristi,
You can purchase clay from your local supplier. If you tell me where you live I can make a recommendation. Do you have a kiln? You'll probably want to fire mid-range, cone 5-7 and you'll need clay in that range. You want lead-free, food-safe glaze. Which is very easy to find. Do you have experience making tiles? If not, you'll want to practice a bit first. I use drywall board in between mine to help them dry flat and prevent warping. Hope this helps, Leisha

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

QUESTION: zip code is 49315. Any suppliers in that area or within 15 miles are considered...

Answer
Kristi,
Ah, a Michigander! I grew up in Michigan. I lived near you in Jenison for college. You have a great supplier just about 30 minutes from you:

West Michigan Clay
(269) 751-5839
PO Box 427
Hamilton, MI 49419
Email: wmcp@verizon.net
www.westmichiganclay.com

There are 3-4 others within a few hours of you also. If you don't find what you need at West Michigan, write again and I'll supply you with all of them.
Happy tiling, Leisha