Intro to Glaze Chemistry

(Morning)
This single-session workshop is designed to give the student the knowledge and confidence they need to begin mixing and adjusting mid-range glazes.  Students will leave the class ready to begin mixing and modifying their own glazes.  They will also receive a packet of information and resources to help guide them.  With a holistic approach and engaging and easy-to-understand explanations, the workshop will provide a basic introduction to:

-What is glaze made of?
-Where do the materials come from?
-What do all these ingredients do?
-How do I mix a glaze?
-What is UMF?
-What does the Stull chart say?
-Why do we use cones?
-How do I adjust my glaze?
-How do I avoid glaze flaws?



Intro to Glaze Experiments

(Afternoon)
This session will help the student begin their journey into formulating, testing, mixing, modifying, experimenting, and perfecting glazes.  Students will learn methods and techniques they can use to create special effect glazes, incorporate strange textures, or correct flaws in their favorite formulas.  There will be a focus on formulating and applying glazes that crackle, crawl, bead, break, drip, shrink, and foam.  Some topics include:

-Line, triaxial and quadraxial blends
-Different materials and their uses
-Efficient use of test tiles
-Proper mixing methods
-Encapsulated stains, mason stains, and bootleg stains
-Flocculation and deflocculation
-Glazes with special effects and textures
-Protecting kiln shelves from damage


Instructor Chris Locke @heartlessmachine is a teacher with certification in art, math, and science.  He has taught high school ceramics for 9 years, and developed these lessons to educate and entertain reluctant students.  He recently published an article in Ceramics Monthly Magazine which revealed a new discovery in glaze chemistry.  He’s a big nerd (according to him)