Botz 9878 Craquelé stoneware glaze

Botz 9878 Craquelé Stoneware Glaze – Glossy with a Crackle Network

Botz stoneware glaze 9878 Craquelé is a liquid, glossy and translucent glaze for stoneware that forms a fine network of cracks (craquelé) as it cools. You apply it with a brush and fire it in the range of 1220–1280 °C. At this high temperature the glaze becomes frost-proof and watertight, so it does not absorb water.

The crackle appears because the glaze and the clay body shrink by different amounts as they cool. With this glaze the cracks are intended. They often only form after firing, and sometimes the network takes about a week to develop fully. So don't be surprised if the piece still looks smooth straight after unloading the kiln. As the glaze is translucent, the colour of your clay also affects the result.

Application and firing

Stir the glaze well before use and apply it with a brush. Let each coat dry thoroughly before applying the next.

• Apply 2 to 3 coats, preferably 3
• Firing range: 1220–1280 °C
• Recommended firing temperature: 1250 °C with a 30-minute hold

Preventing runs

The glaze tends to run. Apply it slightly thinner on the lower third of the piece and leave the foot unglazed. Also protect the kiln shelf with kiln wash in case some glaze does run down.

Making the cracks visible

After cooling, you can stain the craquelé so the network stands out more: rub the piece with strong black tea or with ink, then wipe the surface clean. The colour stays in the cracks. Wait until the network has fully formed. A test piece made from your own clay will show you beforehand how the cracks and colour effect turn out for you.

Botz 9878 Craquelé product details

• Manufacturer: Botz, stoneware series
• Shade: 9878 Craquelé, beige
• Surface: glossy, translucent, forms cracks
• Firing range: 1220–1280 °C
• Recommended firing temperature: 1250 °C with a 30-minute hold
• Property: tends to run

You will also need: brush for application, kiln wash for the kiln shelf; strong black tea or ink for staining the cracks

WARNING: Keep out of reach of children.