Can You Put Clear Glaze Over Mayco Stroke And Coat?

What is Mayco Stroke and Coat?

Stroke & Coat is a highly pigmented, viscous glaze line manufactured by Mayco for decorating ceramics and pottery. It can be used to create intricate designs, patterns, and textures on bisqueware. Stroke & Coat is available in a wide variety of solid colors as well as translucent effects.

The main uses and benefits of Stroke & Coat include:

• Can be used for brushwork, allowing artists to create strokes, lines, and details
• Provides opaque coverage when used heavily
• Has a thick, creamy viscosity that allows it to hold brush marks and shapes
• Is highly pigmented for vivid colors even at low temperatures
• Produces matte, glossy, or semi-glossy finishes depending on application and firing
• Is lead-free, dinnerware-safe, and non-toxic when fired

Overall, Stroke & Coat offers versatility for ceramic artists looking to add colorful, textured, and expressive elements to their work.

Can You Apply Clear Glaze Over Stroke and Coat?

Yes, you can apply a clear glaze over unfired Mayco Stroke and Coat according to the manufacturer’s guidelines (https://thepotterypiazza.squarespace.com/s/Stroke-and-Coat-Application-Guide.pdf). The clear glaze will adhere properly to the Stroke and Coat surface as long as it is applied correctly.

It’s important to note that Stroke and Coat needs to be fired first before applying any clear glaze. The clear glaze should then be applied according to the manufacturer’s directions in terms of thickness and application method. Firing the Stroke and Coat before glazing allows the product to properly fuse to the bare clay surface.

Applying too thick of a clear glaze layer can cause issues like cracking or clouding of the Stroke and Coat effects underneath. Following the guidelines for glaze thickness and firing schedule will help ensure the glaze cures fully and evenly over the Stroke and Coat design.

Using Clear Glaze vs Leaving Unglazed

There are some pros and cons to consider when deciding whether to add a clear glaze layer over Mayco Stroke and Coat or leave the surface unglazed.

Some of the potential benefits of adding a clear glaze include:

• Glaze helps protect and seal the Stroke and Coat colors from wear, fading or scratching over time (1).
• The glossy surface from glaze can make colors appear richer and more vibrant.
• Glazing provides a smoother feel and seals in texture from the Stroke and Coat application.

Reasons you may want to leave the surface unglazed include:

• Unglazed Stroke and Coat has a matte, velvety finish that some artists prefer over glossy glaze.
• Skipping the glaze step is quicker and avoids potential issues like glaze dripping or pooling.
• Unglazed pieces allow more nuanced designs where glaze could fill in intentional texture.

In general, clear glazing is recommended for functional ware that will come in contact with food or be subject to frequent handling. The glaze provides needed protection for durability. But for more decorative non-functional pieces, it often comes down to personal preference on the look and feel (2). Test different options to see what works best for your particular project.

(1) https://ceramicartsnetwork.org/pottery-making-illustrated/pottery-making-illustrated-article/Eye-on-Pattern

(2) https://community.ceramicartsdaily.org/topic/24842-underglaze-transfer-and-stroke-coat/

Types of Clear Glazes to Use

When choosing a clear glaze to apply over Mayco Stroke and Coat, it’s important to select one that is compatible and has the right properties. Some key things to look for include:

Overview of compatible clear glazes:

• Mayco Clear Brushing Glaze – This glaze was designed by Mayco specifically for use with Stroke and Coat colors. It has an ultra-clear finish and smooth consistency that works well for detail and coverage.[1]
• Amaco Celadon Clear Glaze – Formulated to fire crystal clear without ambering, this glaze accentuates colors and leaves a bright semi-gloss surface.[2]
• Laguna Clear Glaze – A reliable clear with good clarity and surface quality compatible with most colorful glazes.[3]

Key properties to look for:

• Clarity – The glaze should fire translucent without clouding or ambering, so the colors show through.
• Gloss level – Consider whether a glossy or satin finish is desired.



• Fit with color palette – Match the clear’s undertone to the Stroke and Coat colors used.
• Application properties – Even consistency and brushability aids detail work.
• Base glaze vs. overglaze – Both work, but overglazes applied late in firing schedule minimize color shift.

How to Apply Clear Glaze

When applying a clear glaze over Stroke and Coat, it’s important to use the proper technique to get an even, smooth finish. According to the Stroke and Coat Application Guide from Mayco, you’ll want to apply the clear glaze in 2-3 light coats rather than one thick coat.

Apply the first coat of clear glaze over the entire piece, being sure to fully cover the Stroke and Coat colors underneath. Let this coat dry completely before applying the next coat. Adding another 1-2 thin coats will help build up the glaze evenly without obscuring the Stroke and Coat effects. Each coat should be thin enough that you can still faintly see the underlying design.

The Application Guide recommends avoiding “puddling” of the glaze and brushing it on smoothly and evenly in all directions. Let each coat dry fully before adding the next. Too-thick application can lead to cracking or crawling of the glaze.

For best results, use a soft brush intended for glazing rather than a hard-bristled brush. Gently brush the glaze on in overlapping strokes. Avoid pressing too hard or scrubbing, which can pull up the Stroke and Coat underneath. Building up multiple sheer coats creates a glass-like finish.

Always be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for any clear glaze used over Stroke and Coat. The number of coats and thickness may vary between products. Proper application technique ensures the Stroke and Coat design shows through clearly and gets fully sealed by the protective clear layers.

Getting the Right Effects

Applying a clear glaze can dramatically change the look of Mayco Stroke and Coat in several ways. The clear glaze can intensify, soften or alter the colors and finishes.

Some tips for enhancing Stroke and Coat designs with clear glaze:

• Use a glossy clear glaze to make colors brighter and more vibrant. This works well for bold, graphic designs.
• Try a satin or matte finish glaze for a softer effect. The colors will be subtler and more muted.
• A tinted glaze like Mayco’s Tuxedo can add an overall hue on top of the Stroke and Coat colors.
• Let some areas be unglazed to create visual contrast and accentuate certain elements.
• Use layers of different glazes for more depth. For example, apply satin glaze first, then glossy glaze on highlighted areas.
• Consider the undertones of the Stroke and Coat colors when choosing a complementary glaze. Warm colors like reds and oranges pair well with warmer, yellow-tinted glazes.

Test different glaze combinations on test tiles before applying to your final piece. This allows you to perfect the layered effects.

Refer to Mayco’s guides like “Stroke and Coat Application Guide” for recommended glazes to use over specific colors.

Potential Issues and Solutions

When working with clear glazing over Stroke and Coat, there are some common issues to look out for.

One problem is cracking or crazing of the clear glaze. This can happen if the Stroke and Coat layer was not fully dried before applying the clear glaze, creating moisture issues. Allowing adequate dry time of 24-48 hours is recommended. Cracking can also occur if the clear glaze and Stroke and Coat have different thermal expansion rates, causing issues during firing. Choosing compatible clear glazes like Mayco’s Clear Brilliant or G-124 Clear is advised.

Another potential problem is poor adhesion between the layers, causing the clear glaze to flake or peel off the Stroke and Coat design. This is often due to contaminated surfaces. Make sure to clean the piece thoroughly after applying Stroke and Coat before adding the clear layer. Soft bristle brushes can help remove any dust or debris. Proper firing and following the manufacturer’s instructions is also key for getting the clear glaze to properly fuse with the underlying layer.

In some cases, the Stroke and Coat layer can end up looking cloudy, frosted, or mottled underneath the clear glaze. This is typically from small air bubbles being trapped against the surface during application. Gently tapping the piece to release air bubbles and allowing adequate dry time helps minimize this issue. Adding thinner coats of the clear glaze and firing at the optimal temperature will also improve the final clarity.

If challenges with poor adhesion, clouding, or cracking persist, it may require adjusting the combination of products being used. Consulting the manufacturer’s technical team or reaching out to experienced ceramic artists familiar with these products can provide additional troubleshooting guidance.

Firing and Curing Considerations

When firing glazed Stroke and Coat pieces, it’s important to follow the correct firing schedule to prevent defects. According to Ceramic Supplies Now, Stroke and Coat should be fired to cone 06-04. Firing too low can prevent the glaze from fully melting, while firing too high can cause glaze defects like pinholing, blistering, and crawling.

Here are some tips to prevent issues when firing glazed Stroke and Coat:

• Always bisque fire before applying glaze. Bisque to cone 04.
• Use witness cones to confirm the kiln reached the proper temperature.
• Fire on the lower end of the recommended cone range. Cone 06 is ideal.
• Slow the firing rate at the end to prevent glaze defects.
• Allow a full cycle for curing. Don’t open before the kiln cools.
• Increase airflow in the kiln if you notice glaze defects recurring.

Following the manufacturer’s instructions and taking measures to control the firing process will help ensure properly cured glaze with the desired glossy finish.

Example Designs Using Clear Glazed Stroke and Coat

Here are some beautiful examples of pottery pieces using clear glazed Stroke and Coat:

This elegant vase uses SC-85 Orchid Stroke and Coat with a clear glaze on top, creating depth and showcasing the brushwork (Stroke-and-Coat-Application-Guide.pdf). The clear glaze allows the purple tones to shine through while smoothing and unifying the surface.

Here a set of mugs features SC-74 Hot Tomale Stroke and Coat designs under a clear glaze. The red and black coloring is enhanced by the clear top glaze, and the varied brush strokes create visual interest on each mug (Stroke & Coat | Highly Versatile & Pigmented Glazes).

These examples showcase the depth, shine, and creativity possible when combining Stroke and Coat with clear glazes. The clear glaze smooths and unifies while allowing the underlying colors and textures to shine through beautifully.

Quick Tips for Success

Here are some final pointers to keep in mind when using clear glaze over Mayco Stroke and Coat:

Test first. Always test your glazes on a test tile before applying to your finished piece. This allows you to perfect the technique and achieve your desired results.

Multiple coats. For best coverage, apply 2-3 thin coats of clear glaze rather than 1 thick coat. This prevents dripping, running, and pooling.

Mind the thickness. Apply Stroke and Coat in a thin, even layer. Thick areas may crackle more when fired.

Protect textures. When applying glaze over textured Stroke and Coat, use a soft brush and light touch to avoid smoothing out the textures.

Enhance sheen. Use a clear glaze to make matte Stroke and Coat shades appear glossy.

Mix and match. Feel free to combine colored Stroke and Coats with different clear glazes for unique effects.

With some practice and experimentation, you can achieve beautiful results using clear glazes over Mayco’s Stroke and Coat line. The extra dimension, shine, and visual interest is well worth the effort. Have fun unleashing your creativity on your next ceramic project!