Speedball Melon Underglaze 454 g – Opaque, Lead-Free Ceramic Underglaze for Brushwork & Sgraffito

Speedball Melon Underglaze 16 oz is an opaque, lead-free ceramic underglaze formulated for detailed painting and reliable results across a broad firing range (Cone 06–6, successful to Cone 10).

This 16-ounce pot of Speedball underglaze in the Melon shade offers a creamy, non-bleeding colour that stays put during glazing and firing. It’s designed for techniques from fine brushwork to sgraffito and mishima, and the formula is stable enough to withstand low to high-fire conditions. Apply multiple liberal coats for full coverage and consistent colour, then fire according to recommended temperatures for best durability and dinnerware safety.

How does this underglaze perform for detailed brushwork and surface decoration?

Speedball’s underglaze has a smooth, controlled viscosity that holds brush strokes and fine lines without feathering. The opacity prevents underlying clay tones from altering the hue, making it suitable for layered and precision work.

• Opaque formula resists bleeding under transparent glazes.
• Brush-friendly consistency for crisp lines and small details.
• Ideal for watercolour-like washes when thinned and for solid coverage when applied thickly.

Will this colour survive different firing temperatures and still be food-safe?

The Melon underglaze is formulated to perform across a wide firing range—recommended Cone 06 through Cone 6 and has been used successfully up to Cone 10. When applied and fired according to Speedball’s instructions and covered with a compatible clear glaze, it is lead-free and suitable for dinnerware use.

• Designed for Cone 06–6 range; can be fired to Cone 10 in many glost applications.
• Lead-free formulation; follow directions for dinnerware safety.
• Top with a clear glaze to ensure durability and a food-safe surface.

How many coats are needed and how should I apply it for best results?

For consistent, opaque coverage we recommend applying two to three liberal coats, allowing adequate drying between layers. Thin coats can be used for translucent or watercolour effects, while heavier coats give solid, saturated colour.

• Apply 2–3 liberal coats for full opacity.
• Allow each coat to dry before applying the next to prevent cracking or lifting.
• Use a soft brush for fine lines; dip and wash techniques work well when diluted.

What techniques is Speedball Melon Underglaze best suited for?

This underglaze is versatile: it supports freehand painting, sgraffito (carving through layers), mishima (incised decoration filled with colour), and washes that mimic watery brushwork. Its stability after firing makes it a go-to for functional ware and decorative pieces.

• Sgraffito: carve through underglaze layers for sharp contrast.
• Mishima: incise lines then fill with the underglaze for crisp detail.
• Watercolour effects: dilute for delicate shading and layered washes.

Who is this for? Potters, ceramics students, studio artists, and hobbyists looking for a dependable, opaque underglaze that supports both fine-detail painting and bold decorative techniques. If you need a workhorse colour that behaves predictably across common firing ranges and is safe for functional ceramics when used and glazed correctly, this 16 oz Speedball Melon underglaze is a practical choice.