How to Reglaze Pottery: Reviving Tired or Flawed Pieces

Pottery is a beautiful and versatile art form, but sometimes even the most carefully crafted pieces can lose their luster or develop flaws. Whether it’s due to wear and tear, a less-than-perfect glaze firing, or simply a desire for a fresh look, there are ways to breathe new life into your pottery through reglazing. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the process of reglazing pottery, from preparing the surface to applying the new glaze and firing it to perfection.

Understanding the Reglazing Process

Reglazing is the process of removing the existing glaze from a piece of pottery and applying a new layer of glaze. This can be done for a variety of reasons, such as:

• Updating the style or color of a piece
• Salvaging a piece with flaws or imperfections from a previous firing
• Refreshing the appearance of a well-loved and well-used piece

The key to successful reglazing lies in properly preparing the surface and choosing a compatible glaze. It’s important to note that reglazing is most effective on stoneware and porcelain bodies, and should be avoided on extremely porous or pit-fired clays, as well as thin or delicate wares that may weaken during the process.

Preparing the Surface for Reglazing

Before you can apply a new glaze, you’ll need to remove the existing one. There are several methods for doing this:

• Sanding: Using a rotary tool or sandpaper, carefully remove the old glaze. Be sure to wear a dust mask and work slowly to avoid damaging the clay body.
• Bead blasting: Using a bead blaster, the old glaze can be removed in a controlled manner. This method is effective but requires specialized equipment.
• Soda or acid etching: Immersing the piece in a soda or acid solution can dissolve the old glaze. This method is effective but requires caution and proper safety equipment.

Once the old glaze has been removed, it’s important to thoroughly clean the surface to remove any residue or contaminants. This can be done by washing the piece with water and a mild detergent, then rinsing it thoroughly.

Choosing a Compatible Glaze

When selecting a new glaze for your piece, it’s crucial to choose one that is compatible with the clay body. During the test firing process, watch for signs of incompatibility, such as:

• Crazing: Small cracks in the glaze surface
• Shivering: Flaking or chipping of the glaze
• Peeling: Separation of the glaze from the clay body

If you notice any of these signs, consider adjusting the glaze formula or switching to a more compatible glaze. It may take some experimentation to find the perfect match for your clay body.

Applying the New Glaze

Once you’ve chosen a compatible glaze, it’s time to apply it to your piece. Here are some tips for ensuring a smooth and even application:

• Apply the glaze in thin, even coats, allowing each layer to dry completely before applying the next.
• Use a brush or sponge to apply the glaze, working in sections and blending the edges to avoid visible brush strokes.
• Be sure to cover all areas of the piece, including the bottom and any hard-to-reach spots.

To prevent glaze drips and firescale during the firing process, consider applying a clear glaze over the colored glaze. This can help to seal and protect the surface.

Firing the Reglazed Piece

After applying the new glaze, it’s time to fire the piece in the kiln. Be sure to follow the recommended firing schedule for your specific glaze and clay body. During the firing process, the glaze will melt and fuse to the clay, creating a durable and glossy surface.

Once the piece has cooled completely, you can remove it from the kiln and inspect the results. If you’re satisfied with the outcome, your piece is ready to be used and enjoyed. If you notice any flaws or imperfections, you can always reglaze and refire the piece again, up to a certain point.

It’s important to note that repeated reglazing and refiring can weaken the structural integrity of the clay body, so it’s best to limit the process to a maximum of two or three times. After that, the piece may become too fragile to use safely.