A deep look at AMACO glaze series: what they are like, and which one is best for Mid-Fire (Cone 5–6) firing.

Choosing glazes for ceramic work is one of the most important steps, because in addition to determining the color and surface of the piece, the "glaze" is also what most clearly defines the identity of the owner of the piece.

And if we're talking about a globally popular glaze brand in the Mid-Fire (Cone 5–6) category, the name AMACO is always mentioned. With its consistent quality, predictable colors, and diverse range of series that cater to both artistic and practical applications.

Today, Pottery Clay will take everyone to discover the 4 main series of AMACO Mid-Fire glazes, along with usage tips and suitable clay selection to make your pieces beautiful, flawless, and uniquely outstanding.

Velvet Underglazes (V)  Underglazes for drawing and detailing. Characterized by vibrant, non-bleeding colors, they can be used from Cone 05 to Cone 10, offering a matte, velvety finish when not clear-glazed. Ideal for line drawing, Sgraffito, Mishima, and clay printing.

For desired results, apply 3 coats for opaque color, or 1–2 coats for a watercolor effect. For gloss and Food Safe finish, apply AMACO HF-9, HF-10, or C-11 clear glaze.

Velvet Underglazes can be used with all types of clay, especially white clay, which produces the most vibrant colors and a matte velvety or glossy finish when clear-glazed.

Potter’s Choice (PC) Glazes that create complex effects, colors, and patterns similar to Reduction firing. The colors change shades according to the thickness of application, providing a glossy, smooth, and food-safe finish (most are Food Safe). Ideal for making cups, plates, and vases.

To achieve the desired effect, apply 2–3 coats, especially for effect colors such as PC-20 Blue Rutile or PC-31 Oatmeal. You can also combine two colors to create unique new effects.

For use with Potter’s Choice glazes, stoneware and porcelain clays with a smooth, dense surface are ideal. This will result in a glossy, dimensional finish with natural light and shadow nuances.

Satin Matte (SM) Smooth, soft glaze that provides a semi-matte yet refined finish. The colors are stable and easy to use, and all shades are food-safe. Ideal for tableware. Always shake the bottle to mix the glaze thoroughly before use, as the glaze is quite thick. Then, apply 2–3 coats for a smooth finish without brush marks.

This glaze series is best suited for stoneware and porcelain clays because the glaze appears especially clear, giving a "warm and luxurious" feel.

Celadon (C) Transparent colored glazes that highlight the clay surface and patterns. They are characterized by their translucent nature and wide range of shades, excellently showcasing the texture and engraved patterns of the piece. They provide a glossy, food-safe finish, making them ideal for carved works and pieces that aim to emphasize their surface texture.

For application, 2–3 coats should be applied to achieve a balanced and even shade across the entire piece. Especially when paired with dark or light gray clay, it creates depth and clear dimensions. Therefore, it is suitable for use with dark stoneware to reveal a clear, dimensional surface and showcase the clay patterns and texture.

While each series of AMACO glazes is unique, you can always combine techniques and series to create your own distinctive works.