Create vibrant, captivating pieces with Mayco and Peacock glazing techniques.
Peacock glazing is the art of creating vibrant, dynamic patterns with a stunning blend of colors that flow into each other, resulting in a powerful and uniquely charming effect.
The key to this technique is the perfect pairing of products to create beautiful chemical reactions in the kiln.
- For mid-range firing: Use a combination of Stroke & Coat, Stoneware Glazes, and Flux as a flow agent.
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For low-fire: Use Elements colors with Pottery Cascades.
Tips for success with the Peacock technique:
- Don't be afraid to experiment with different color pairings, as diverse shade combinations often lead to unexpectedly beautiful results.
- Use tools for precision to achieve crisp patterns and easy directional control. We recommend using a needle-tip squeeze bottle for applying Stroke & Coat and Flux dots to create intricate details professionally.
- The Peacock technique performs best on vertical pieces such as vases, mugs, or tall bowls, as gravity helps the glazes flow and react better than on flat pieces.
- At mid-range temperatures, using glazes with high flow properties will encourage colors to swirl and blend naturally, creating more dimension.
- Cross-temperature application:
- Low-fire work: Elements and Pottery Cascades can be used, but keep in mind that each color tone will have a different flow rate.
- Combination: You can combine low-fire glazes with Stoneware Glazes at Cone 6. Low-fire glazes will flow more when exposed to high heat, which is ideal for creating patterns in this technique.
Final small tip: Try dropping small dots of color in alternating layers and let the heat in the kiln create your own "peacock tail." You're guaranteed to be delighted with the result!