Cuerda seca is a technique used to embellish and decorate ceramic objects, such as figures or tiles, by creating precise and defined patterns. It consists of outlining the ceramic object, preferably on flat surfaces to prevent the lines from sagging, using a greasy element such as oil or grease. These lines or cords act as barriers that repel the glaze, preventing the glazes from mixing in the delimited areas during firing. Once the drawing has been made with the greasy element, the glazes are applied using a rubber bulb. In this way, the colors are perfectly differentiated, keeping each one in its place and creating very delineated designs with marked contours and clearly separated colors.
Interesting Fact
From the archaeological point of view, the first ceramic productions using cuerda seca are located in the Near East around the 10th century AD.
Helpful Tip
For optimum results when using the cuerda seca technique, make sure the line with the grease element is well defined and dry before applying the glazes. Use precise tools to draw the lines and maintain an even layer of grease to avoid glaze seepage.
