Cone 6 oxidation (larger image): Midnight Rain is a blue-green breaking gloss glaze that contains a black crystal. As the crystal melts and moves, a black oil-like streak is created in the glaze.

Cone 10 reduction (smaller image): Crystals melt and integrate into base glaze, darkening the color. Increased movement.

TIP: SW-100 Blue Surf is the base glaze. For a lighter crystal effect, you may try applying two coats of SW-100 Blue Surf with a third coat of SW-115 Midnight Rain.

Stoneware crystal glazes are designed to expand upon the surface with dazzling bursts of color. Fired results will vary based on ware’s orientation. Crystals will settle to the bottom of the jar and will need a good mixing prior to initial use. Re-stir between each coat. Stir with palette knife or other unpainted tool. Avoid placing crystals near the bottom third of a vertical piece as they may cause additional movement during firing. Crystals will flow more than the base glaze. While the glaze is wet, use your fan brush to redistribute the crystals to achieve balanced coverage. Over-application or heavy deposition of the crystals can cause pinholing or running. When storing a crystal glaze, you may consider storing upside down to facilitate crystal dispersion on the next use.

Chips shown are fired flat on a white clay body fired to cone 6 oxidation and cone 10 reduction. The choice of clay body, the thickness of glaze application, the firing process, and temperature will affect the fired results.