Glaze Additives

Glaze additives improve the working properties of both commercial and home made glazes.

Brushing Media is a simple gum solution that can be added to any glaze, underglaze, etc. to improve its brushing characteristics. The basic effect of adding Brushing Media to a product is to lengthen the drying time after the glaze is brushed on the piece. It also assists in glaze suspension. Brushing Media can be used if you are trying to convert a dipping or spraying glaze into a brushing glaze. The amount of Brushing Media that should be added depends heavily on the particular circumstances. A rough guideline is to add about 5% of the volume of the product being adjusted. Keep in mind that the Brushing Media is largely water and that adding significant quantities of it will dilute the strength of the original product.

Suspender is a solution of bentonite in water. It can be used to help suspend glazes that have become subject to settling out. The amount of Suspender that should be added depends heavily on the particular circumstances. A rough guideline is to add 5 to 10% of the volume of the product being adjusted, as a starting point. Keep in mind that Suspender has a strong tendency to gel and that the more you add the thicker or more viscous a glaze will become.

Glaze Thinner is a solution of sodium hexametaphosphate in water. It is a very powerful thinning agent and should be added very sparingly. For example, 2 or 3 drops in a 4 oz. jar should have a significant effect. It is a useful product for thinning glazes, underglazes, etc. when you do not want to dilute the strength of the glaze by adding water.

Powdered CMC Gum

  • Glaze thickener: CMC gum is commonly used as a thickener for ceramic glazes, helping to prevent them from running or dripping during application. This can be especially beneficial for brushing glazes or for glazes used on vertical surfaces.
  • Improve glaze consistency: It can also improve the consistency of glazes, making them smoother and more even in texture. This can lead to a more predictable and consistent glaze application.
  • Strengthen unfired glazes: By adding hardness and cohesion, CMC gum helps to strengthen unfired glazes, making them less prone to cracking or chipping during handling. This is particularly useful for delicate pieces or those that will be handled frequently.
  • Slows glaze drying: CMC gum can slow down the drying rate of glazes, giving you more time to work with them before they dry out. This can be helpful for artists who like to apply multiple layers of glaze or who want to create textured effects.

VeeGum CER

  • Keeps particles suspended: Vee Gum acts as a thickener and suspending agent, preventing glaze particles from settling and separating. This ensures a smooth, even glaze application and prevents streaking or unevenness.
  • Improves glaze consistency: By thickening the glaze, Vee Gum helps control its flow and prevents it from running or dripping during application. This is especially beneficial for dipping or pouring techniques.
  • Lowers viscosity: Despite thickening the glaze, Vee Gum helps maintain its workability. This allows for easier brush application and manipulation without compromising the glaze's ability to adhere to the clay body.
  • Strengthens unfired glazes: Vee Gum adds a slight binding property, making unfired glazes less prone to cracking or chipping during handling. This is especially helpful for delicate pieces.
  • Reduces glaze shrinkage: By minimizing the amount of water in the glaze, Vee Gum can help reduce glaze shrinkage during firing, potentially preventing cracks or warping.
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