Unlocking the Magic of Pink: Testing New Glaze at Cone 6 Firing

Adding pink to a glaze lineup is not as simple as it sounds. After years of working with about 10 to 12 reliable glazes, I finally decided to answer the many requests for a pink glaze. Today, I am testing a new pink glaze in the kiln firing at cone 6, which reaches 2252 degrees Fahrenheit. This post shares the challenges, the science behind glazing, and what to expect when introducing pink at this temperature.

Testing pink glaze firing at cone 6, close-up of ceramic pots with pink hues

Why Pink Is Hard to Achieve at Cone 6

Pink is a tricky color to get right in ceramics, especially at cone 6. Unlike lower temperature firings, cone 6 requires glazes to withstand higher heat, which can change how colors develop. Pink pigments often fade, turn brown, or shift to other hues when exposed to these temperatures.

The chemistry behind this involves the interaction of metal oxides and fluxes in the glaze. For example:

• Copper oxides can produce green or turquoise instead of pink.

• Iron oxides tend to create reds or browns.

• Strontium or calcium in the glaze can affect color stability.

  
  

Finding the right balance means testing different recipes and firing schedules to see which combinations hold the pink color without dulling or burning out.

The Science Behind Glazing

Glazing is more than just dipping pottery into colored liquid. It is a complex chemical process that involves:

• Melting of glaze materials at specific temperatures.

• Reactions between oxides and fluxes that create color.

• Cooling rates that influence crystal formation and surface texture.

  
  

Each glaze recipe is a carefully measured mix of silica, alumina, fluxes, and colorants. Changing one ingredient can alter the final look dramatically. This is why glaze testing is essential before adding a new color to the regular lineup.

Testing Process for the New Pink Glaze

The testing process involves several steps:

1. Formulating the glaze recipe with potential pink colorants.

2. Applying the glaze on test tiles and sample pots.

3. Firing the kiln to cone 6 (2252°F).

4. Unloading and evaluating the results for color, texture, and durability.

   
   

This firing is the first real test of the new pink glaze. The results will show if the color holds, if the surface is smooth, and if the glaze fits well with the existing lineup.

What to Expect from the Kiln Unloading

Kiln unloading is always exciting but unpredictable. The pink glaze might:

• Show vibrant, soft pink tones.

• Reveal unexpected hues like coral or peach.

• Have variations depending on thickness and firing atmosphere.

  
  

The goal is to unlock a pink that complements the current glazes and adds a fresh option for pottery pieces. This new color could open creative possibilities for designs and collections.

Practical Tips for Potters Interested in Pink Glazes

If you want to experiment with pink glazes at cone 6, keep these tips in mind:

• Test small batches first to avoid wasting materials.

• Use consistent firing schedules to compare results accurately.

• Document glaze recipes and firing conditions for repeatability.

• Be patient; achieving the perfect pink may take several firings.

• Consider layering glazes or using stains to enhance pink tones.

  
  

Looking Ahead

Adding pink to the glaze lineup is a step toward expanding creative options. Once the test results are in, adjustments will be made to improve color stability and surface quality. This process highlights how glazing combines art and science, requiring experimentation and careful observation.

Stay tuned for the kiln unloading on Friday to see the new pink glaze in action and discover what colors emerge from this firing.