Reactive glaze involves the chemical interaction between different glaze components during firing to create unique and dynamic visual effects on the surface of the piece. Unlike traditional glazing, where colors and textures are more static, reactive glazing allows for the formation of patterns, color gradients and other variations that result from reactions between metal oxides and other glaze elements under certain kiln temperature and atmosphere conditions.
This technique offers a wide range of creative possibilities, as they can experiment with different combinations of ingredients and firing settings to produce customized and artistically complex finishes. Reactive glazing can generate effects such as marbling, crackling, creating iridescent stains or forming deep textures that add dimension and visual interest to ceramic pieces.
Interesting Fact
Some ceramists use controlled reduction and oxidation techniques during firing to induce specific chemical reactions in the glaze, resulting in changing colors and surface effects that appear to move or evolve in the light.
Helpful Tip
To get the most out of reactive glaze, it is important to have a thorough understanding of glaze chemistry and how different metal oxides react under various firing conditions. Conduct experiments with small samples to observe how colors and textures vary with changes in glaze formulation and kiln conditions. Keep a detailed record of your tests so that you can replicate the desired effects and perfect your reactive glazing techniques, achieving unique and customized finishes on your ceramic pieces.
