Applying dimensional underglaze or any dimensional paint takes practice. It’s a good idea to always squeeze a little onto a paper towel to start in case there are air bubbles in the nozzle - which can make a messy blob in your stroke. I keep a paper towel in my other hand and wipe the tip between each stroke.
After finishing your lettering with the Black French Dimensions, add the smiles with Red and the eyes with the appropriate color (Blue, Brown, Green?)
Eye color is one of the very small details that makes people smile as they recognize this portrait of themselves.
I have to admit this is my favorite part - the hair. It is here that you can really distinquish one person from another - not only with the hair color and style, but with the little quirks as well - a cowlick for instance.
Although there is less variety in men’s hair - and less of it in most cases, facial hair can help add the identifying characteristics.
Add glasses if appropriate and mimic the frame shape and color. This also makes the person easy to identify.
As a final touch, I use a sponge roller and either Black or Dark Blue underglaze to roll a neat line of glaze around the rim. This also requires three coats, so don't worry if it isn’t absolutely perfect.
The platter is then fired to Cone 018 - just to set the French Dimensions so it won’t smear when your brush on the necessary three coats of Clear Glaze.
A second firing follows to Cone 06. When removed from the kiln, the platter should look something like the ones below.
Since these platters are glazed ceramic, you can eat off them or use them to serve food if you wish, but most folks want to display them on the wall. There are a great variety of plate holders on the market for displayings singles or whole collections of plates and platters.
I hope you enjoy this project - and enjoy celebrating your family!
CS
Rights Granted:
You may produce this project for personal use or gifts only.
May not be used as commercial curriculum (i.e. paid workshops), or to produce items for sale..
