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dry mixing glaze: a comment, a concern

updated fri 2 sep 05

 

Lezlie Finet on thu 1 sep 05


Hi Lily,

I think you might've missed the first part of my post:

<
I=92ve been reading about the solubility issues associated with some
commonly used glaze ingredients (such as Gerstley Borate, Neph Sy and
Lithium Carb) that causes some glazes to deteriorate over time.

My own experience seems to prove this out as well, especially with a
couple of my favorite raku glazes.

Thus the idea of fresh-mixing my glazes makes sense, or more practically,
weighing out larger batches of the dry ingredients, and mixing small
amounts with water as needed.>>


I have no problem mixing & twice-sieving my glazes once they=92re mixed with=

water, even ball-milling some of them.

My intent is to have small batches of FRESH glazes on hand to use as
needed without having to weigh out recipes from scratch each time - not my
favorite use of time.

Just so you know, I=92m a 15 year potter, my studio is on our farm south of
Spokane. I like to think I'm professional, but I=92m not a production
potter, so vast quantities of glazes such as Michael or David or Craig use
are not needed.

These days, my passion revolves around with raku firing, including naked
raku & Emu feathers, shard pots, fuming (Kosai) & multiple layering/
multiple firings.

So you can be assured, my respirator cartridges/filters are well-used and
up-to-date. I DO heed your safety warnings and appreciate that you=92re
looking out for the uninformed & beginners, as we all were at one time.

And I love your suggestion of sieving into an unconnected sink, since I
just happen to have one!

Always looking for an easier (as well as more efficient & safe) way=85

Thanks for your thoughts & concern,

Lezlie