Stephani Stephenson on sat 25 nov 00
All clay sealants do not behave in the same way.
I started out with craft varieties and floor polish.( Then went on to
the hard stuff--:) -just kidding)
The craft varieties can leave a plastic looking finish on the clay. They
even feel rubbery to the touch. I used to apply those then rub them off
immediately to reduce this plastic look, but I was never really
satisfied with the outcome. They just looked artificial. The spray
finishes also vary. Duncan makes an good one, I believe it is an
eggshell or satin. It has a harder look to it., and looks and feels more
integrated with the clay surface.
I also tried waxes with mixed results. Some waxes looked good initially
but I found that they later attracted dust. Others would 'bloom',
leaving a filmy residue in places. The terra cotta must be completely
dry before applying either. Caranuba wax works well on decorative
pieces. Put it on when the piece is warmed up. It will soak in and
leave a lovely, color enhancing finish.
One of the most beautiful finishes I've ever used is a traditional
Navajo finish, using tree sap.
Finally I started using professional grade tile sealers and this is what
I would recommend, for tile , architectural, and decorative work. You
can choose a penetrating sealer, which will seal the terra cotta yet
not alter the surface appearance. You can also choose between flat ,
satin and gloss surface sealers and even polishes. I often combine a
penetrating sealer with a lowsheen top sealer.
These products are well tested and will hold up indoors or outdoors.
They will withstand normal cleaning and they will not yellow or change
with age. Best of all, you can fine tune the visual appearance.
Find a local tile supply place. one that works with contractors as well
as the public. They often have little sample bottles of products they
can give or sell to you for test applications.
Stephani Stephenson
Leucadia, CA
Back from Las Vegas, where I saw Joe Cocker and Tina Turner in concert.
Joe put his soul into each song. After watching Tina, age 62, dance and
sing with more energy than a cyclone, I vowed never again to complain
about tired feet or a crick in the neck.
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