1 Example of Erick Howenstine's test tile.When glazes overlap, the results can be surprising, perhaps at the rim of a vessel or after spraying, dipping, splashing, or painting one over the other. The order of the application can dramatically affect the result. One may overwhelm the other when on top, but burst through in patterns when below. 

I have found two simple methods to test combinations with a single tile (1). A textured tile will help show the differences between thick and thin. Make sure to indicate on the back which two glazes were used, along with the temperature and the firing atmosphere (oxidation or reduction). 

The easiest technique is as follows (2): After wax resisting a tab at one end of the textured tile to preserve the raw clay body, dip each glaze to the midpoint. Then, invert it and dip with the opposite glazes, a quarter of the way, on either side. This will result in the two base glazes in the center, and the two overlaps on the outside edge. 

2 Two Methods for a Double-Dipped Glaze Chip.

Second, if you prefer the base glazes outside (as shown in 1), start the same but dip the second glaze three-quarters deep, then wax resist the end of the chip before dipping the first glaze again, to half. This will take a bit longer, as the wax must dry, but either way will give a nice sample of the glazes, both alone and in combinations. 

 

Previous February Issue Article                    Next February Issue Article

 

February 2026: Table of Contents


Must-Reads from Ceramics Monthly

Unfamiliar with any terms in this article? Browse our glossary of pottery terms!
Click the cover image to return to the Table of Contents