Shino glaze has long fascinated potters with its rich, unpredictable finishes that range from creamy whites to deep oranges and reds. When paired with wood firing, the glaze’s interaction with the kiln atmosphere creates surfaces marked by natural ash deposits, flashing, and carbon trapping. This guide dives into how to use Shino glaze in wood-fired ceramics, covering everything from glaze preparation to firing techniques, ensuring you achieve stunning results.
What is Shino Glaze?
Shino glaze originated in Japan and is known for its high feldspar content. The glaze produces warm, earthy colors, with finishes ranging from glossy to matte. Its dynamic nature stems from how it reacts to the firing atmosphere, with reduction creating darker tones and oxidation yielding brighter, more vibrant hues.
In wood firing, the flames and ash play a crucial role in shaping the final appearance. This makes Shino glaze popular among ceramic artists looking to add character and depth to their work.
Preparing for Shino Glaze Wood Fire How to Use
Before applying Shino glaze, it’s essential to prepare both your workspace and materials properly.
1. Clean Workspace
Ensure your studio is free from dust and contaminants that could interfere with glaze application. A clean surface promotes even glazing and prevents unwanted textures.
2. Safety Precautions
Wear protective gear, including gloves, a dust mask, and safety glasses. When mixing glaze powders, proper ventilation is crucial to avoid inhaling fine particles.
3. Clay Body Selection
The clay body significantly impacts the final outcome. Stoneware or iron-rich clays enhance the glaze’s responsiveness to the kiln atmosphere, creating deeper, richer colors. Porcelain may yield softer, subtler results.
Mixing Shino Glaze
Mixing your own Shino glaze allows for customization and control over the final look. A basic recipe to start with includes:
- 80% Nepheline Syenite
- 15% Kaolin (China Clay)
- 5% Ball Clay
Optional Additives:
- 3% Soda Ash – Promotes carbon trapping and enhances texture.
- 0.5% Iron Oxide – Adds warmth and intensifies red hues.
Combine the dry ingredients thoroughly before adding water. The mixture should resemble heavy cream in consistency. Sieve the glaze to remove any lumps, ensuring a smooth application.
Applying Shino Glaze Wood Fire How to Use
Shino glaze application methods can vary based on the desired effect. Each method affects the final appearance differently.
1. Dipping
Submerge bisque-fired pieces into the glaze for an even coat. Adjust the dipping time to influence the glaze thickness. A thicker coat often leads to richer, darker hues.
2. Pouring
Pouring glaze over the piece creates fluid, organic patterns. This technique adds variation in thickness, enhancing the glaze’s dynamic quality.
3. Brushing
Brush the glaze in multiple layers to build depth. Each layer contributes to the final texture and color. Allow each coat to dry before applying the next.
4. Wax Resist
Apply wax to certain areas to create patterns or leave sections unglazed. This technique results in striking contrasts, especially when combined with carbon trapping.
Loading the Kiln
The way pieces are loaded into the kiln directly affects how the glaze reacts during firing. Proper placement and spacing ensure even firing and promote unique effects.
1. Positioning
Place pieces at varying heights and locations within the kiln to explore different effects. Areas closer to the flame or exposed to more ash produce distinct textures and colors.
2. Spacing
Leave adequate space between pieces to allow for proper airflow. This prevents uneven firing and ensures consistent glaze results.
Wood Firing Process for Shino Glaze
Wood firing is a complex but rewarding process that enhances the characteristics of Shino glaze. Understanding the firing schedule and atmosphere is key to achieving desirable results.
1. Preheating
Gradually increase the temperature to eliminate moisture from the clay. Rushing this step can lead to cracks or glaze defects.
2. Body Reduction
Begin body reduction at cone 010 (approximately 1641°F). This step darkens the clay body and enhances the glaze’s interaction with the kiln atmosphere.
3. Glaze Reduction
Maintain a reduction atmosphere throughout the firing process. Reduction promotes carbon trapping, resulting in gray or black streaks within the glaze.
4. Soaking
Hold the kiln at peak temperature (typically cone 9 or 10) to allow the glaze to mature fully. Soaking encourages deeper glaze saturation and ash deposits.
5. Cooling
Control the cooling rate carefully. Rapid cooling can lead to crazing, while slow cooling enhances the glaze’s depth and character.
Achieving Desired Effects
Shino glaze offers endless possibilities for unique finishes. Adjusting firing conditions and glaze thickness can yield a wide range of effects.
1. Carbon Trapping
To enhance carbon trapping, apply the glaze thickly and introduce reduction early in the firing. Slow cooling further accentuates this effect.
2. Flashing
Position pieces to face the flame directly to encourage flashing, which creates reddish-orange hues. Flame path and wood type also influence flashing intensity.
3. Ash Deposits
Ash from the wood settles on pieces during firing, interacting with the glaze to form natural patterns and textures. Experiment with different types of wood to vary ash effects.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
While Shino glaze is forgiving, certain challenges may arise during the process. Addressing these issues promptly ensures consistent results.
1. Crawling
Crawling occurs when the glaze pulls away from the clay body, leaving bare spots. This often results from applying glaze too thickly or unevenly. To prevent crawling, ensure pieces are clean and glaze is properly mixed.
2. Pinholing
Pinholes are small surface defects caused by trapped air or insufficient glaze coverage. To mitigate this, apply multiple layers and ensure even drying between coats.
3. Uneven Color
Uneven glaze color can result from inconsistent reduction or uneven glaze thickness. Adjust firing schedules and monitor kiln atmosphere closely.
Comparison Chart: Shino Glaze Effects by Firing Condition
| Firing Condition | Effect on Shino Glaze | Color Range |
|---|---|---|
| Light Reduction | Bright, vibrant hues | Creamy whites to oranges |
| Heavy Reduction | Carbon trapping, darker tones | Grays, blacks, deep reds |
| Prolonged Soaking | Enhanced saturation, richer textures | Intense reds and oranges |
| Fast Cooling | Crisp, glassy surface, risk of crazing | Light orange to soft cream |
| Slow Cooling | Matte texture, increased depth | Deeper, richer hues |
Final Thoughts On Shino Glaze Wood Fire How to Use
Using Shino glaze in wood firing opens doors to endless creative possibilities. By mastering glaze preparation, application techniques, and firing schedules, you can produce ceramics that showcase the unique beauty of Shino glaze. Experimenting with kiln placement, firing conditions, and clay bodies allows for continued growth and exploration in your ceramic practice.
