{"product_id":"speedball-melon-underglaze-16-oz-opaque-lead-free-ceramic-underglaze-for-brushwork-sgraffito","title":"Speedball Melon Underglaze 454 g – Opaque, Lead-Free Ceramic Underglaze for Brushwork \u0026 Sgraffito","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSpeedball 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).\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow does this underglaze perform for detailed brushwork and surface decoration?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eSpeedball’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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eOpaque formula resists bleeding under transparent glazes.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eBrush-friendly consistency for crisp lines and small details.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eIdeal for watercolour-like washes when thinned and for solid coverage when applied thickly.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill this colour survive different firing temperatures and still be food-safe?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eDesigned for Cone 06–6 range; can be fired to Cone 10 in many glost applications.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eLead-free formulation; follow directions for dinnerware safety.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eTop with a clear glaze to ensure durability and a food-safe surface.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow many coats are needed and how should I apply it for best results?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eApply 2–3 liberal coats for full opacity.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eAllow each coat to dry before applying the next to prevent cracking or lifting.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eUse a soft brush for fine lines; dip and wash techniques work well when diluted.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat techniques is Speedball Melon Underglaze best suited for?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eSgraffito: carve through underglaze layers for sharp contrast.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eMishima: incise lines then fill with the underglaze for crisp detail.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eWatercolour effects: dilute for delicate shading and layered washes.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWho 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003csection class=\"product-faq-snippet\"\u003e\u003ch3\u003eFAQ\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"faq-item\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"faq-q\"\u003eQ: Can I use Speedball Melon underglaze on dinnerware?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"faq-a\"\u003eA: Yes—it's lead-free and dinnerware-safe when applied and glazed according to Speedball's firing and finishing instructions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"faq-item\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"faq-q\"\u003eQ: What firing range works best for this underglaze?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"faq-a\"\u003eA: Designed for Cone 06–6 and has been successfully fired up to Cone 10; follow specific kiln schedules for best results.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/section\u003e","brand":"Speedball","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55296451215697,"sku":"B003IGIDL6","price":43.44,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1086\/5567\/3681\/files\/speedball-melon-front-label.jpg?v=1791943181","url":"https:\/\/craftiche.co.uk\/products\/speedball-melon-underglaze-16-oz-opaque-lead-free-ceramic-underglaze-for-brushwork-sgraffito","provider":"Craftiche","version":"1.0","type":"link"}