A guide to firing types and temperatures

Clay usually goes through two firings; the first being a bisque firing and the second is a glaze firing. If you wish to use ceramic transfers (decals) or luster on your work, you will need a third firing.

Bisque Firing

This type of firing transforms clay from a malleable material to a hard, but porous material to which glaze can be applied.  It is usually between 1000°C and 1150°C, depending on the type of clay used (stoneware/porcelain or earthenware) and the type of effect eventually required (food/dishwasher safe/frost proof or non functional/sculptural/interior mosaic).

The firing temperature range for your clay should be printed on the original packaging. If unsure about the type of clay you need for your project, ask your ceramic materials supplier for advice.

Glaze Firing

This firing melts any glaze applied to the surface of bisqued ware into a permanent glassy layer. It is usually between 1040°C and 1300°C, depending of the type of clay used (earthenware, stoneware or porcelain), the effect required (sculptural/ non functional/ interior mosaic or frost proof/ food and dishwasher safe) and the type of glaze used (earthenware/mid range/ stoneware). If using a pre-mixed glaze, firing temperature range is usually indicated on the bottle, and it is important to pick the right glaze type for the clay used. 

Transfer or Luster firing

Transfers are enamel prints which are applied to the surface of glazed work. Luster is a thin layer of metal in liquid form, which can also be applied to glazed work. To make your transfers and luster permanent, another firing is required. It is typically between 750°C and 850°C depending on transfers/ luster used. Manufacturers and suppliers will provide this information at point of purchase.

Help

If you are unsure about which types of firing you require, our experienced and qualified member artists will be happy to provide help and advice at time of booking. To book a firing please call us on 0141 550 8030.

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