Underglaze painting is one of the most expressive and accessible methods for decorating ceramics. It allows potters and ceramic artists to apply vibrant, detailed designs directly onto clay surfaces, which are then sealed with a clear glaze and fired. Unlike overglazes or traditional glazes, underglaze paints do not shift or run during firing, which makes them ideal for precise line work, illustrations, patterns, and multicolored layering. This guide is tailored for beginners who want to understand the fundamentals of underglaze painting—from selecting the right materials to mastering essential techniques.
What Is Underglaze Painting?
Underglaze painting involves applying specially formulated ceramic pigments directly onto clay—either in the leather-hard, bone-dry, or bisque-fired stage. These pigments are typically water-based and contain colorants without the fluxes and glass-formers found in glazes, which means they stay in place when fired. Once covered with a transparent glaze and fired, underglaze designs become vibrant, permanent, and food-safe. This technique is favored in functional pottery, tile design, and illustrative ceramic art because of its consistency and durability.
Essential Tools and Materials
To begin underglaze painting, you’ll need a selection of quality underglaze colors—brands like AMACO Velvet, Mayco, or Spectrum are highly recommended for beginners. You’ll also need various brushes: round, flat, and detail brushes in synthetic or natural hair. A smooth ceramic surface (such as bisqueware or leather-hard clay), a palette or tile for mixing colors, and clean water for brush maintenance are essential. Additionally, using test tiles will help you evaluate how colors appear after firing. Optional tools include fine-tip applicators, sponges, pencils for sketching designs, and carving tools for sgraffito work.
Preparing Your Surface
Proper surface preparation is crucial for successful underglaze application. You can paint directly onto leather-hard clay for techniques like sgraffito or opt for bisque-fired pottery for more control with brush painting. Make sure the surface is smooth and free of dust or debris, which could interfere with even application. If working on greenware, avoid excessive handling after painting to prevent smudging or accidental marks. For bisque, lightly wipe the surface with a damp sponge to remove any dust that might prevent underglaze adhesion. A clean, absorbent surface ensures better results and color consistency.
Basic Painting Techniques for Beginners
Start with simple patterns—lines, dots, gradients, and floral motifs—to build confidence and control. Underglaze can be applied in single or multiple layers to deepen the color. Always allow one coat to dry before applying the next to avoid lifting or streaking. Use fine brushes for details and wider brushes for washes or backgrounds. You can also dilute underglazes with water to create watercolor-like effects, or layer complementary tones to achieve subtle shading. Practicing on test tiles is a smart way to observe how different colors and techniques behave after firing.
Layering and Mixing Colors
Underglazes can be layered to create depth and dimensionality in your artwork. For example, layering a lighter color over a darker one can soften and modify the underlying hue. However, it’s important to let each layer dry before applying the next to avoid muddying colors. You can also mix underglazes on a palette to create custom shades—just be sure the base formulations are compatible (i.e., from the same brand). Layering and color mixing are ideal for naturalistic imagery such as landscapes, animals, or portrait work, where tonal variation enhances realism.
Adding Detail and Texture
For added intricacy, consider techniques like sgraffito—applying underglaze and then carving into it to reveal the clay underneath. This technique works best on leather-hard clay. Alternatively, you can use fine brushes or slip-trailing tools to add thin lines or decorative accents. A sponge can be used to soften backgrounds or blend edges. Underglaze pencils and pens are also available for sketch-like effects, ideal for line art or technical illustrations. The level of detail you can achieve depends on brush control, paint thickness, and surface absorbency.
Drying and Glazing
After painting, allow the piece to dry thoroughly—especially if the underglaze was applied to greenware. Once dry, apply a clear glaze to seal and protect the design. Transparent gloss glazes are the most popular choice, but satin or matte clear glazes can also be used depending on the desired finish. When glazing bisque pieces, dip, brush, or spray the clear glaze carefully to avoid disturbing the underglaze design. Always test how the glaze affects color, as some glazes slightly shift or intensify tones. Dry fully before firing to avoid glaze crawling or bubbling.
Firing Tips
Most commercial underglazes are designed to fire well in oxidation atmospheres, typically in electric kilns at Cone 05 (low-fire) to Cone 6 (mid-fire). Always check the manufacturer’s label for recommended temperatures. The final color may vary slightly depending on the clay body and firing conditions, so it’s a good idea to fire sample tiles first. High-fire underglazes also exist but are more sensitive to fluxing and color changes. Be aware of how your kiln type (electric, gas, wood) and firing speed may influence the outcome, especially with layered or mixed applications.
Practice Ideas for Beginners
To build skill, start with basic projects such as painting simple motifs on coasters, mugs, or test tiles. Practice techniques like gradient blending, outlining with fine brushes, or layering two to three colors. Try reproducing the same pattern multiple times to improve precision and brush control. Gradually incorporate more advanced methods like sgraffito or mixed media work. Keeping a sketchbook or log of your experiments with notes on colors, glaze types, and firing conditions can help track your progress and replicate successful results in future projects.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
One of the most frequent mistakes is applying underglaze too thickly, which can lead to cracking or color distortion. Another issue is overworking the surface while it’s still wet, resulting in muddy or uneven textures. Using the wrong brush size can also make it harder to achieve clean lines or fill areas smoothly. Always test your design on a tile before applying it to a final piece. Additionally, rushing into glazing before the underglaze has dried can lead to smearing or peeling. Patience and consistency are key to mastering this art form.
Underglaze painting offers a dynamic and satisfying way to bring your ceramic pieces to life. By understanding the materials, practicing fundamental techniques, and experimenting with color and texture, you can develop a unique artistic voice. Whether you aspire to create functional pottery, decorative tiles, or intricate ceramic art, mastering underglaze painting is an essential skill in your creative journey. With time, patience, and a willingness to explore, even beginners can achieve stunning, long-lasting results.