Unglazed fired clay. The firing stage where raw clay is set in its permanent form and
prepared for receiving a glaze. Generally this is the first step in the finishing process for
ceramic forms.
Commercial bisque is usually fired to cone 04 (1945oF) but temperatures may vary with manufacturers. Contact your supplier for specifics as this may affect your glaze results.
The general temperature rule for low fire products is two cones hotter than your typical glaze temperature. This can help prevent glaze defects such as pin holing, crazing, shivering to name a few. For high temperature clays, the bisque temperature is not as critical as the final glaze firing will be far beyond the bisque temperature.
When handeling bisque, remember skin oils and lotions may leave finger prints and smudges that will resist (prevent from sticking) glazes. Dust build-up may also cause glaze problems, so clean you hands often and try to store bisque in clean dust free areas. LIGHTLY rinsing bisque before glazing can give you better finished results. |
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