How Can I Glaze My Air Dry Clay?

Glazing is the process of applying a glossy coating to hardened air dry clay to provide a smooth, finished look and protective seal. Glazing brings out the color and beauty of air dry clay pieces in a way that paint alone often cannot. The glaze fills in any porous holes and imperfections in the clay surface to create a uniform, glass-like finish.

Glazing has multiple benefits for air dry clay projects:

• Enhances the look of the clay with gloss, shine, and depth
• Seals the surface to make it more durable and water-resistant
• Allows for creative effects like crackle, matte, or metallic finishes
• Can introduce new colors and patterns onto the clay
• Provides a smooth surface similar to ceramic bisqueware
• Transforms the clay into a decorative object suitable for display

With the right glaze and technique, crafters can create stunning air dry clay projects that mimic the beauty of fired ceramics. Glazing takes air dry clay from a basic medium to a versatile material for professional-looking handicrafts and artwork.

Types of Glazes for Air Dry Clay

When it comes to glazing air dry clay, one of the most readily available options is acrylic craft paint. Acrylic paints are water-based, making them easy to thin and clean up. They come in a wide variety of colors and finishes, from bright glossy colors to muted matte tones.

Acrylic craft paints are versatile for glazing air dry clay. They can be used directly out of the bottle for an intense, opaque color. Or they can be thinned with water to create a translucent stained glaze effect. Acrylic paints are also mixable, so colors can be blended to create custom shades. Metallic acrylic paints are great for adding shine and shimmer.

One tip when using acrylic paints to glaze air dry clay is to apply them in thin layers and allow drying in between. This will help prevent cracking or peeling. Acrylic glazes can be sealed with a finish like polyurethane for added protection and shine.

Craft Glazes

Craft glazes are a popular option for glazing air dry clay projects. These glazes are readily available at most craft and hobby stores, making them a convenient choice. Craft glazes come in a wide variety of colors and finishes like gloss, satin, and matte. They often have versatile applications and can be used on polymer clay, clay pottery, ceramics, and other porous materials.

Many crafters appreciate craft glazes because they are premixed and ready to use straight from the bottle or jar. This makes the glazing process quick and easy. Simply brush, roll, or sponge the glaze directly onto the clay surface. Though the consistency is thick like paint, craft glazes have excellent adhesion and coverage.

Craft glazes require baking or firing according to the manufacturer instructions, typically around 110°C to 160°C. This cures the glaze and seals the finish. Firing can be done at home in a kitchen oven. The clay project should be dried fully before applying the glaze and baked completely once glazed. This prevents cracking.

It’s important to follow the label directions closely when using craft glazes. Apply the recommended number of coats for full opacity and maximum durability. Too little glaze can produce patchy results. Multiple thin coats often look better than one thick coat. Let each coat dry before adding the next. Clean the brush regularly for smooth application.

Enamel glazes

Enamel glazes are a popular option for adding color and shine to air dry clay projects. Enamel glazes contain finely ground glass particles suspended in a clear medium. When fired, the glass melts to form a smooth, durable, glass-like coating.

Enamel glazes come in just about any color imaginable. They can be used to tint the clay or create solid opaque colors. Enamel glazes fire to a glossy finish, making them ideal for jewelry, decorative boxes, figurines, and more.

Compared to craft glazes, enamel glazes fuse to the clay at a higher temperature. They require firing at 1,300°F to 1,500°F. While this high firing temperature produces a more durable finish, it does mean you’ll need access to a kiln. Enamel glazes are not suitable for low temperature craft ovens.

When working with enamel glazes, be sure to apply them sparingly and evenly. Only 2-3 thin coats are needed. Too much glaze can cause drips or cracking. Enamel glazes come in liquid form or as dry powder to be mixed with water or medium.

Resin Glazes

Resin glazes are a popular choice for finishing air dry clay projects. They provide a high-gloss, durable, waterproof seal to protect clay surfaces. Resin glazes are made from two-part epoxy resin that is mixed together before applying. The resin cures to a hard, clear finish that really makes clay projects shine.

Resin glazes are especially good for covering and sealing porous clay surfaces. The resin seeps into crevices and gives a smooth, glass-like coat. Resin glazes can be tinted with acrylic paints or mica powders to create colored finishes. Metallic powders like gold, silver or copper can also be mixed in for a shimmering effect. The finish retains flexibility rather than becoming brittle over time.

Compared to other glazes, resin provides one of the most durable, long-lasting seals for air dry clay. It is waterproof and protects against moisture damage. The smooth surface also resists dirt buildup. Resin glazes bring out the best in clay projects, enhancing visual depth and color. Overall, resin is an excellent choice for glazing air dry clay to achieve a professional, high-quality finish.

Choosing a Glaze

When selecting a glaze for your air dry clay project, there are a few key considerations:

Desired finish – Glazes can create glossy, satin, or matte finishes. Gloss glazes like resin and some enamels will provide a shiny, glass-like finish. Satin glazes have a soft sheen while matte glazes are flat and non-reflective.

Type of clay project – If making art pieces, glossy finishes may be ideal. For jewelry and accessories, satin or matte glazes often work best. Consider the look you want to achieve.

Food safety – Make sure to use food-safe glazes if planning to use glazed clay for food related items like mugs or bowls. Resin and some craft glazes may not be food-safe.

Glaze compatibility – Ensure the glaze specifies it is suitable for the brand and type of air dry clay you are using. Some glazes may not properly adhere to certain clays.

Personal preferences – Consider if you want a single color glaze or something transparent that allows the clay’s natural color to show through. Test out sample pieces to determine what finish you like.

Budget – Resin and specialty glazes tend to be more expensive than basic craft glazes. Factor in cost if pricing is a concern.

Preparing the Air Dry Clay Surface

Properly preparing the surface of your air dry clay piece is an important step before applying any type of glaze. This ensures the glaze adheres well and provides an even, smooth finish. Here are some tips for getting your clay ready to glaze:

Lightly sand the entire surface with a fine grit sandpaper or sanding block. This removes any small imperfections or roughness. Be careful not to sand too much or you may lose finer details. Wipe away any dust with a dry cloth after sanding.

Use a damp cloth or paper towel to clean the surface. This removes any dust, dirt or oil from handling the clay. Allow your piece to fully dry after cleaning before glazing.

Consider using a primer or sealer before glazing. These provide an extra layer of adhesion for the glaze and prevent any subtle absorption of the glaze into the clay. Primers like gesso or dedicated clay primers work well.

Check for any cracks, holes or imperfections in the clay and fill them in with clay slip or caulk where needed. This provides the glaze a smooth, consistent surface to adhere to.

Handle the cleaned clay carefully to avoid new fingerprints and smudges before glazing. Finger oils can cause glaze to repel or not adhere as strongly in those areas.

Applying the Glaze

There are two main methods for applying glaze to air dry clay – brushing it on or spraying it on. Each method has its pros and cons.

Brushing the glaze on gives you more control and allows you to avoid any drips. Use a soft bristle brush to gently brush an even layer of glaze over the entirety of the clay surface. Be careful not to brush too roughly or you may scrape off some of the clay. Brushing works best for glazing smaller pieces or details.

Spraying glaze on goes much faster and can give an even, smooth coat. Use light coats and keep the spray can 6-12 inches away to avoid drips. Let each coat dry completely before adding another. Spraying works well for larger pieces or ones with hard to reach areas. Just be sure to work in a ventilated area.

In most cases you’ll want to apply 2-3 thin coats of glaze for good coverage. Avoid applying too much glaze in one coat as it can pool or drip. Let the glaze dry for at least 24 hours between coats. Once fully dry, the glazed clay will have a glassy, shiny finish.

Finishing and Sealing

The final step when glazing air dry clay is to apply a finishing coat(s) to seal in the glaze and protect the surface. This is an important process that should not be skipped. An unsealed glaze can scratch or chip easily. The final seal makes the piece more durable.

After applying your glaze coats and allowing proper drying time between each one, you’ll want to apply a final sealant. Some good options are:

• Polyurethane – This clear coat provides a hard protective layer. Apply 2-3 thin coats.
• Resin – Epoxy or UV resin also seals and hardens the surface.
• Mod Podge – Can be used as a finishing sealant, especially the outdoor or dishwasher-safe formulas.
• Glaze – Some glazes can be used as their own sealant, but check the product details.

Make sure to follow the product instructions for proper application and drying time. When sealed, your glazed clay project will have a glass-like, durable finish that brings out the colors and design beautifully!

Tips and Tricks for Glazing Air Dry Clay

Glazing air dry clay can sometimes lead to frustrating results if you don’t follow best practices. Here are some tips for avoiding common mistakes and troubleshooting any problems you may encounter:

Avoiding Common Mistakes

Some common mistakes to avoid when glazing air dry clay include:

• Not cleaning the surface – Any dust, dirt or oils on the clay can prevent the glaze from adhering properly. Always clean with soap and water first.
• Applying too thick – Thick, gloopy glaze is more likely to crack or peel. Apply in thin, even coats instead.
• Not sealing first – An acrylic sealer helps the glaze stick to the clay. Always seal porous air dry clay before glazing.
• Applying to wet clay – Let air dry clay fully cure for at least 24-48 hours before glazing to prevent cracking.
• Not letting glaze fully dry – Impatience can lead to smearing. Allow each coat to dry completely before adding another.

Troubleshooting Problems

If you do run into any problems glazing your air dry clay, here are some tips for troubleshooting:

• Glaze cracking – Add thinner coats, make sure clay is fully cured and sealed, and use a flexible glaze designed for clay.
• Glaze peeling – Roughen slick surfaces before glazing, clean thoroughly, seal first, and don’t handle too soon.
• Bubbles in glaze – Stir glaze well, apply thinner coats, and avoid shaking or blowing on glaze as it dries.
• Glaze not sticking – Clay may be greasy, porous, or uncured. Clean well, seal first, and let clay fully harden before glazing.
• White smudges – These are called blushes. Gently wet sand with fine grit sandpaper once the glaze has fully cured.

Following best practices when preparing, glazing, and drying your clay creations will help avoid many finished piece mishaps. But experimentation and experience will also help you master the art of glazing air dry clay.