Speedball Mid-Fire Glaze Variegated Lapis 473 ml Jar, Cone 5/6 Oxidation, Dinnerware-Safe

Speedball Mid-Fire Glaze in Variegated Lapis is a 16-ounce, cone 5/6 oxidation ceramic glaze that produces mottled, reduction-like blue variations perfect for functional and decorative pottery.

Designed with input from ceramic artist Nancy Sowder, this Mid-Fire Glaze combines ease of use with visually complex surfaces. Formulated for cone 5/6 oxidation firing, Variegated Lapis gives unpredictable, layered blues and subtle speckling that work well alone or when layered with other colours in the Speedball Mid-Fire range. All colours in the line are free of lead and certified safe for dinnerware when tested AP or CL, suitable for tableware and decorative pieces when used according to firing guidelines.

How does Variegated Lapis behave in a cone 5/6 oxidation firing?

In cone 5/6 oxidation, Variegated Lapis develops mottling and reduction-like nuances without requiring a reduction atmosphere. The glaze moves and pools slightly, producing lighter and deeper blue areas and occasional speckles where fluxes interact.

• Produces tonal variation and depth across surfaces.
• Shows pooling in recesses and thinning on edges for natural contrast.
• Compatible with standard cone 5/6 kiln schedules in oxidation.

What application techniques give the best variegated effects?

You can achieve varied surface textures and colour transitions by changing how you apply the glaze. Brushing, dipping, layering, or spraying each produce different levels of mottling and movement.

• Brush for linear streaks and controlled coverage.
• Dip for even coats and pronounced pooling at bottoms and rims.
• Layer with other Mid-Fire colours to create highlights and deeper contrasts.
• Spray thin coats for subtle gradients and soft transitions.

Is this glaze safe for functional pottery and beginners to use?

Yes — Speedball formulated the Mid-Fire series to be approachable for all skill levels while meeting safety standards. Variegated Lapis is lead-free and tested as dinnerware-safe (AP/CL tested) when used and fired per manufacturer recommendations.

• Lead-free formulation suitable for tableware after proper firing.
• Friendly viscosity for easy brushing or dipping by beginners.
• Clear usage instructions recommended to maintain food safety.

How can artists combine Variegated Lapis with other glazes for unique results?

Layering Variegated Lapis over or under other mid-fire colours creates depth and unexpected colour shifts. Because the glaze responds to thickness and underlying tones, experimentation yields distinct outcomes each firing.

• Apply a contrasting base glaze to amplify speckling and edge highlights.
• Use thin washes of Variegated Lapis over lighter glazes for translucent tinting.
• Test small tiles to preview interactions before committing to larger pieces.

Who is this for? Potters, students, and studio artists who want reliable, studio-friendly mid-fire results with artistic surface variation will appreciate Variegated Lapis. It’s ideal for makers seeking dinnerware-safe finishes for functional ware and for artists who enjoy layering and experimentation to achieve one-of-a-kind surfaces. Whether you’re learning glaze behavior or refining a finished collection, this 16-ounce jar offers a convenient amount for testing, accents, and small runs.