A collection of AMACO Dipping & Layering Glazes color combination ideas, featuring results on various clay bodies.

Pottery Clay compiles popular color pairing formulas for AMACO Dipping & Layering (DL) Glazes, along with techniques for dipping and layering, plus the results on various types of clay bodies.

First, let's recap what AMACO Dipping & Layering (DL) Glazes are.?

AMACO Dipping & Layering (DL) is a series of liquid glaze formulas designed specifically for "layering." They are suitable for mid-fire temperatures (Cone 5–6 / approx. 1,186–1,222°C). When two colors are layered over each other, the chemical reactions during firing create beautiful flow effects, crystallization, and new color dimensions.

The basic technique for the 5 popular AMACO DL color pairing formulas below is:

Dip Base Coat for 2 seconds → let it dry to damp → dip Top Coat for 2 seconds

DL-11 Enamel White (over) DL-20 Floating Blue > A deep blue background contrasted with creamy white flowing patterns, resembling ocean waves.

DL-70 Oxblood (over) DL-60 Honeycomb > Blood red flowing over a honey-yellow background, creating a bright brick orange tone and deep textures.

DL-1 Ebony (over) DL-23 Ultramarine > Deep black highlights the ultramarine blue, creating a dimensional, poised, profound, and luxurious effect.

DL-20 Floating Blue (over) DL-42 River Moss > Moss green tones blended with blue create an organic look.

DL-11 Enamel White (over) DL-70 Oxblood > White draws out the Oxblood red, causing it to separate into scale-like patterns or pastel pink and bright red flows.

Even with the right color combinations, it is important to know that the type of clay body has a significant impact on the final tone and effect of AMACO DL glazes.

White Stoneware / Porcelain > Provides the brightest, most vivid colors that are truest to the color chart.

Brown Stoneware > Gives warm, vintage-style tones; the glaze color will be slightly darker.

Black Stoneware > Shows clear contrast effects, suitable for crystalline or light-colored glazes.

Color pairing and layering AMACO Dipping & Layering Glazes not only helps make your ceramic pieces unique and creates stunning new color dimensions, but it is also the charm of ceramics that keeps artists excited for the results after opening the kiln.

Try applying these 5 popular recipes and testing them on your favorite clay body. Even with the same recipe, small details—such as the pressure of your hand, the rhythm of dipping, and the type of clay—can always create a one-of-a-kind piece. Have fun creating and look forward to beautiful results coming out of the kiln!

Order authentic AMACO Dipping & Layering glazes, shipped directly from the USA, today.