Beginner’s guide to glazing and firing pottery: what every new potter should know
Aug 19, 2025
Introduction: the joy of glazing and firing
Every potter remembers their first kiln opening. The anticipation, the rush of heat as the lid lifts, and then—the reveal. A dull, chalky pot transformed into something luminous, vibrant, and permanent. It feels like unwrapping a gift you gave yourself.
Glazing and firing are the heart of pottery. Without them, clay is just hardened earth. With them, it becomes art you can eat from, display proudly, and pass down. This guide will walk you through the essentials of glazing, the two types of firing, how to apply glaze, and the mistakes to avoid—so you can approach this stage with both confidence and joy.
What glaze is and why it matters
Glaze is liquid glass in disguise. Brushed, dipped, or poured onto clay, it fuses during firing to form a smooth, durable finish.
Why it matters:
Functionality – glaze makes pottery waterproof and food-safe.
Durability – it strengthens the piece against chips and wear.
Aesthetics – it adds the color, shine, or texture that brings personality.
For many beginners, choosing a glaze is when their work first feels “real.” That mug you shaped from raw clay now holds the possibility of gleaming emerald green or wearing a soft satin finish.
The two essential firings
Pottery doesn’t just get fired once—it goes through two distinct transformations:
Bisque firing – The first trip to the kiln hardens the clay, removes water, and makes it porous enough to absorb glaze.
Glaze firing – The second firing melts the glaze into the clay, sealing and finishing the piece.
Think of bisque firing as building the foundation, and glaze firing as painting and sealing the house. Skip either, and the result won’t hold up.
Exploring types of glazes
Glazes are as varied as paint colors, but beginners can start with a few big categories:
Glossy vs matte – glossy glazes highlight bright colors; matte creates a soft, modern feel.
Transparent vs opaque – transparent glazes reveal underglaze designs; opaque glazes cover evenly.
Specialty glazes – celadons, ash, metallics, and textured finishes add depth and surprise.
Experimenting with glazes is one of pottery’s pure joys. Each choice opens new creative doors—and no two kiln openings are ever alike.
How to apply glaze as a beginner
There are four main methods worth trying:
Brushing – best for small pieces and detailed work.
Dipping – quick and even coverage, great for mugs and bowls.
Pouring – perfect for larger surfaces or flowing effects.
Spraying – advanced but produces smooth, layered finishes.
Most beginners start with brushing or dipping—they’re simple and forgiving. Always test on a tile first. Those “mini experiments” save you from surprises on your favorite piece.
⚠️ Safety note: glazes often contain fine particles. Wear a mask when handling powders, and keep food and drinks out of the studio.
Kiln access and cost considerations
Here’s the big hurdle: how do you fire your work?
Owning a kiln is possible, but it’s a serious investment. Brands like Skutt range from $2,000 to $6,000+, not counting ventilation, electrical setup, or the jump in your utility bill. For condo-dwellers or casual hobbyists, it’s usually not practical.
The good news: you don’t need to buy one.
Mini Pottery Studio memberships give you access to professional kilns, glazes, and a supportive community.
Take home kits let you shape at home, then bring your pieces back for both bisque and glaze firing.
Community studios and firing services can also fire your pieces for a fee.
Yes, there’s air-dry clay, which avoids kilns entirely. But it’s fragile, not waterproof, and never food-safe. If you want lasting, functional pottery, firing is non-negotiable.
Common mistakes beginners make (and how to avoid them)
Everyone makes mistakes at the glazing table. A few to watch for:
Too much or too little glaze – thick glaze drips and sticks; thin glaze looks patchy. Aim for 2–3 even coats.
Forgetting the bottom – glaze on the base will fuse your piece to the kiln shelf. Always wipe clean.
Surface flaws – pinholes, crawling, and blistering often come from dust, uneven application, or overfiring.
The truth? Every potter has been there. The trick is to treat mistakes as part of the learning process. Even “flawed” pieces can be beautiful—and each kiln opening teaches you more.
Where the magic happens: bringing it all together
Pottery is a cycle: centering clay, shaping a form, glazing with intention, and firing to finish. Each step builds toward that kiln opening.
And that moment never gets old. No matter how many times you’ve done it, there’s always a spark of joy in seeing how fire and glaze worked together.
How Mini Pottery Studio supports your glazing journey
At Mini Pottery Studio in Toronto, we help beginners experience that joy firsthand:
4-week pottery classes – Week 4 is all about glazing, so you can learn hands-on from Cielo Vianzon.
Memberships – access kilns, glazes, and a welcoming community.
Take home kits – shape pieces at home, then fire them with us for professional results.
Conclusion: from clay to lasting joy
Glazing and firing are what transform clay into pottery. They seal, strengthen, and beautify your work, turning a fragile form into something permanent.
Your first glaze firing will surprise you. It might delight you. It might puzzle you. But it will always feel magical.
If you’re ready to see your own clay come to life, explore a class, membership, or take home kit at Mini Pottery Studio. We’ll guide you through the process, right up to that unforgettable first kiln opening.