Speedball Mid-Fire Glaze Smoke — Cone 5/6 Oxidation, 473 ml Jar, Lead-Free Dinnerware Safe

Designed with input from ceramic artist Nancy Sowder, this Mid-Fire Smoke glaze delivers unpredictable, painterly results that work well on functional wares and decorative pieces. Formulated for Cone 5/6 oxidation firings, the glaze is dinnerware safe and lead-free, making it suitable for tableware and studio projects. Its fluid behavior allows artists to use it alone or layer it with other colours in the Speedball Mid-Fire line to build complex surfaces.

How will this glaze behave in a Cone 5/6 oxidation firing?

When fired to Cone 5 or 6 in an oxidation atmosphere, the Smoke glaze develops soft variegation and reduction-like character without a true reduction kiln. Expect areas of pooling and subtle colour shifts that give a sense of depth and texture across the piece. Results vary with application thickness, glaze interactions, and clay body.

• Produces mottled, dimensional surfaces similar to reduction effects
• More variegation where glaze pools or overlaps
• Responsive to thickness, brushwork, and layering

Can I use Speedball Smoke on functional dinnerware safely?

Yes—Speedball Mid-Fire glazes are lead-free and have been tested for dinnerware safety, with individual colours carrying AP or CL certifications as applicable. As with any glaze, ensure proper firing schedules and follow Speedball's safety information. Always confirm certification details for a specific colour if you plan food contact use.

• Lead-free formulation suited for functional ceramics
• AP/CL certification details available per colour
• Follow recommended firing for safe, durable surfaces

How should I apply Smoke glaze for the best effects?

Application method alters the final look: brushing gives directional streaks, dipping yields even coverage with pooling at edges, and layering creates unique interactions with other Mid-Fire shades. Start with test tiles to learn how your clay body and thickness influence the mottling and sheen. Clean bisque ware and consistent application produce the most predictable, attractive results.

• Brush, dip, or pour depending on desired texture
• Use test tiles to dial in thickness and layering combos
• Combine with other Speedball Mid-Fire colours for complex surfaces

What practical tips ensure repeatable outcomes in the studio?

Document your glaze methods—note clay type, bisque temp, glaze mix, application thickness, and firing schedule—so you can reproduce preferred effects. Thin or dilute as needed for brushing; keep jars sealed between sessions to prevent skinning. When layering, allow proper drying between coats to avoid runs or crawling.

• Record clay, application, and firing details for each test
• Seal jars and stir well before use to restore uniform consistency
• Dry layered coats thoroughly to prevent defects

Who is this for: Speedball Mid-Fire Smoke is well suited to studio potters, ceramic hobbyists, and production artists who want a versatile mid-fire glaze that yields reduction-like, painterly effects without reduction firing. It’s ideal for makers creating functional dinnerware, decorative pieces, or experimental work where surface variation adds character. Beginners will appreciate the forgiving application, while experienced ceramists can exploit layering and interaction techniques for more complex finishes.