Expert: Leisha Hiester - 8/10/2010

Question
I'm decorating some bisque with Duncan Concepts in a fairly detailed design and
then want to put one or two coats of clear glaze on it then fire it.  I did this
recently with a project and the design ran when I fired it.  How can I prevent this.  
I use 1001 or GL612 glazes then fired it to cone 06.

Answer
Dear Donna,

Sounds like you're doing everything right. Here are some things to consider; what types of brushes are you using? Allow the Concepts to completely dry before brushing on the clear glaze. I often allow detailed designs to dry overnight. If you're using a brush to apply your clear glaze versus dipping, always use a soft glaze brush and apply a 'flowing' coat.

Here's a cute explanation from one supplier;

http://www.dogwoodceramics.com/Misc/have-you-heard-my-coat-story.htm

In my studio I use plain ole house or candle wax. I use it for a variety of uses. If I have a detailed glaze project I wax the areas where the two glazes meet that I don't want to run. The wax burns away in the kiln, yet holds the glaze long enough to help prevent running. I found an old electric skillet at a garage sale. I heat the wax to 300 degrees.

I hope some of this helps. Feel free to write again. You may want to try some small test pieces to figure out what is causing your problem.

Leisha