Body Stain is an important aid for ceramicists because it is a high-temperature resistant color that can withstand various chemical reactions during firing until the clay body vitrifies.
A key factor in achieving vibrant colors is the "clay body color." If you use very white clay, the resulting stain color will be clearer and brighter than using dull, black, or red clay. The amount of Body Stain to use depends on the desired color intensity, typically ranging from 0.5 - 10% of the clay's weight.
Steps for preparing Body Stain
- Choose a stain formula specifically designed for mixing into clay bodies, then weigh the raw materials according to the ratio.
- Mix all raw materials thoroughly, then fire at a high temperature of approximately 1250 - 1350 °C (depending on the formula of each color).
- Wash the fired stain with hot water, then grind it finely again according to general stain preparation methods.
Application Techniques
Once you have the stain powder, you can mix it with the clay body or make a "colored slip" for direct decorative use (recommended to use 0.5 - 3% of the dry clay weight).
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Tips for mixing color into the clay body: If using a wet grinding method, it is recommended to add the stain powder during the later stages of clay preparation (approximately 90% of the total grinding time). Then, add the color and continue grinding until the time is complete, to ensure the color and clay body are smoothly blended.
Caution: Although some stains can be used for both glazes and clay bodies, Body Stains generally do not melt well if used as Glaze Stains. Therefore, choose the type of stain that is suitable for its intended use.