Differences between glaze and pigment: Which one should you choose for your ceramic pieces?

Hand-painted ceramics is an art that combines creativity and technique. However, one of the most common dilemmas for those who work with ceramics is choosing between glaze and pigment . Both techniques offer unique finishes, but understanding their differences and applications can help you make informed decisions for each piece. In this article, we'll take an in-depth look at their advantages and disadvantages, and how to choose the most appropriate option based on the style and functionality of your creations. We'll also show you the most commonly used techniques at Kinara Ceramics for creating unique pieces.

What is glaze in ceramics?

Ceramic glaze is a vitreous layer applied to the surface of ceramic pieces to protect them and enhance their appearance. It is obtained from a mixture of silica, fluxes, and metal oxides that, when subjected to high temperatures (between 900 and 1300°C), melt to form a smooth, shiny, and resistant film.

Glaze not only adds color but also provides a waterproof barrier, preventing liquids from penetrating the clay. This makes it an ideal choice for utilitarian pieces like cups, plates, and bowls.

At Kinara Ceramics , we apply gloss glazes in two coats to ensure a uniform and durable finish. This type of glaze reflects up to 80% of light, making the pieces appear fresher and more vibrant.

Types of glaze for ceramics: glossy, matte and opaque

• Glossy glaze : Its luminous finish reflects light and enhances colors, making pieces look fresh and vibrant. It's common on tableware because it's easy to clean. At Kinara Ceramics, we use this type of glaze in the final step of coating the piece, achieving a glossy and long-lasting finish. It's important to control the measurements if we want to coat the piece with a more "watery" glaze. We'll also write a post explaining how to do it and ensure you don't fail.
• Matte enamel : Offers a sophisticated, natural look, absorbing light rather than reflecting it. However, it may be more prone to staining. It's ideal for decorative pieces.
• Opaque glaze : Completely covers the natural color of the clay and allows for intense, uniform tones. It's often used for more modern and minimalist designs. At Kinara Ceramics, this glaze is typically used to give the piece a vibrant color, making it unique.

Advantages of enamel:

• Durability: Resistant to scratches, stains and high temperatures.
• Professional finish: Allows for smooth and uniform surfaces.
• Variety: A wide range of colors and effects (crackle, crystallization, among others). At Kinara Ceramics, we strive to create unique designer pieces, and glaze offers endless possibilities.

Disadvantages of enamel :

• Complex process : Requires technical knowledge and precise temperature control.
• Incompatibility : Not all glazes work well with all clays.

At Kinara Ceramics, we encourage you to find your own style. We combine glaze and pigment in the same piece to create a unique piece.

What is pigment in ceramics?

Ceramic pigments are colored compounds, usually based on metal oxides, used to color both clay and glazes. Unlike glaze, pigments do not create a glassy layer, but rather directly stain the surface or are integrated into the ceramic body.

The use of pigments allows for precise, personalized details, ideal for techniques such as dry rope, sgraffito, or majolica. Pigments are particularly useful for artists seeking to control every aspect of color and design in their pieces.

One trick we use at Kinara Ceramics is to slightly dilute the pigment to create watercolor effects. Experiment with this technique!

Types of pigments:

• Metallic oxides: Iron oxide; reddish and brown tones. Copper oxide; green and turquoise tones. cobalt oxide: deep blue tones.
• Ceramic Stains: Predefined mixtures that guarantee predictable and stable results at different firing temperatures.

At Kinara Ceramics, we recommend using the "Prodesco" brand, created in Spain. We use it ourselves. It offers pre-mixed or powdered oxides. For beginners, we recommend the pre-mixed ones for easy application.

In our experience, Prodesco pigments offer excellent color stability even at high temperatures.

Advantages of the pigment :

• Precision : Ideal for fine designs and intricate details.
• Versatility : Allows for various techniques such as direct painting, printing or washing.
• Color control: The resulting tones are more predictable and consistent.

Disadvantages of pigment :

• Lower resistance : It needs to be protected with a transparent enamel if the piece is going to be in contact with food or liquids.
• Less depth: Unlike enamel, pigment does not create a glazed finish, which can affect the perception of the piece.

Key differences between enamel and pigment:

Visual appearance:

• Enamel : Provides a deep, glossy, glazed finish, ideal for pieces seeking a polished, professional look.
• Pigment : Offers flatter, more matte colors, allowing for precise details and more controlled artistic effects.

Durability and resistance:

• Enamel : Its vitreous layer makes it waterproof and more resistant to knocks and stains, ideal for tableware and containers.
• Pigment : Since it does not form a protective layer, it is more vulnerable to abrasion and must be covered with enamel for utilitarian pieces.

Application and cooking process:

• Enamel : R It requires high-temperature firing to ensure the minerals fuse properly. Application is usually uniform, using techniques such as pouring, brushing, or dipping.
• Pigment: Can be applied before or after the first firing (biscuit). It also allows for more artistic techniques such as sgraffito, stenciling, and direct painting.

Which one to choose according to the style of your pieces?

The choice between glaze and pigment depends on both the use and style of the piece. Here are some tips:

For utilitarian pieces, glaze is essential to ensure water resistance and durability, especially for tableware, cups, and bowls. Choose transparent glazes if you want to showcase the natural color of the clay or applied pigments.

However, for decorative pieces, pigments allow for intricate details and greater control over tones. Techniques such as sgraffito and cuerda seca are perfect for vases, decorative plates, and murals .

For example, we'll use enamel for a set of everyday dishes with a glossy, durable finish. However, we'll use pigment for a decorative vase with detailed, brush-applied floral motifs.

Conclusion: Find your unique style

At Kinara Ceramics, we encourage you to pursue your own unique style. Ceramics is an art form full of possibilities, and the choice between glaze and pigment is essential to defining the style of your pieces. Both techniques offer unique advantages, from the durability and shine of the glaze to the precision and detail of the pigment.

Exploring, experimenting, and combining both options can open up a world of creative possibilities. Experiment with different finishes and discover which one best reflects your artistic vision!

Each piece tells a unique story, and at Kinara Ceramics, we believe combining techniques is the best way to express that story. Keep experimenting and creating unique pieces!