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borax in slips

updated fri 17 mar 06

 

Lili Krakowski on thu 16 mar 06


Daniel Rhodes writes: "For hardening [engobes] a little borax added to the
engobes has been found to be useful. Borax, being soluble, tends to
re-crystalize in the engobe when it dries on the ware, and this forms a
tougher, harder coating which is less subject to damage in handling.
Organic binders, such as sugar or gums, may be used for this purpose, but
they have the disadvantage of spoiling with age." p.161" Clay and Glazes
for the Potter" 1957

Although distinctions now are made between "slips " and "engobes" it was
the practice then to speak of slips as clays in liquid form when used for
pouring, or as a result of dissolving clay, and engobes for the decorative
stuff.

Lili Krakowski

Be of good courage