What is an Exotic Glaze?

Each Exotic glaze is so strikingly different that “Exotic” is the only word that adequately describes them. The Exotic Glazes produce a palette of gloss, satin or matte surfaces enhanced by a frosted pattern of colors. Some colors have "floats" of complementary or contrasting colors that vary according to application and firing. These colored veins produce the perfect texture for fur, faded denim or the look of polished stone, depending on the glaze.

How do I apply Exotic Glazes?
Any of Mayco's glazes brushes are ideal, depending upon the area and surface to be covered. There are other ways of applying the glaze to produce a variety of textures. On a plain piece, a final, uneven coat will bring out the beauty of the individual glazes. The use of sponges will produce a totally different look to the glaze surface.

How many coats do I apply?
The standard application of three coats on shelf cone 04 bisque is generally accepted. However, the application of four coats will produce a totally different look with the same glaze. The application of two coats will produce a matte texture with the gloss group of glazes. An uneven application will also change the final look.

What cone do I fire Exotic Glazes?
A shelf cone of 06 is ideal. Allow the pieces ample room for air circulation during the firing. These glazes develop their own personalities when fired to higher temperatures, but check Mayco's High Fire Guide for color stability. A heavily loaded kiln will affect the color and float.

Why did the same glaze, fired on two pieces, turn out differently?
Their pattern development will depend upon many variables and as a result no two pieces will look exactly alike. The shape of the object, application, firing temperature, kiln load and the firing time all will affect the flow patterns of these glazes. With the application of three even coats and the usual cone 06 firing, these glazes do not flow out of control, but move within themselves enough to result in a pleasing effect.

What are some other uses of the Exotic Glazes?
Exotic Glazes are perfect for fur on animals, feathers on birds, fruits, flowers, vegetables, foliage or baskets. These glazes are ideal for glaze combinations. Their two-tone coloring and flowing nature aid in the final patterning of the glazes combination. Antiquing with Exotics is fascinating when used in combination with other Exotic Glazes on textured surfaces. High fired, the glazes can be subtle to dramatic. On decorative surfaces of fur, a light coat of AC-516 Porcelain Mist Spray can embellish the beauty of the fired glaze and fur look.

Are Exotic Glazes food safe?
Only two of the colors can be used on the inside of food containers: E-837 Twilight Blue and E-850 Milk Glass. The other glazes can be applied safely, but do not meet the government standards for usage on the inside surfaces of food containers. Exotic glazes can be used on the outside of food containers. Always read and observe the health warning on the label. You can view Mayco’s Health and Safety information on our website.

Should I be concerned painting with the exotic glazes?
Mayco prints a health warning on all of their products concerning lead and cadmium release. Read the label on the jar and Mayco's safety literature before you start your glaze application for best results. Pay special attention to the safety precautions about handling glazes during application. Use good hygiene precautions as washing your hands before and after you apply the glazes and refrain from eating while applying the glaze.

Can I intermix Exotic Glazes with other glazes?
Intermixing Exotic Glaze is unpredictable. Be sure to make a test sample to see if the fired result is the desired effect. Remember that the mixing of a food safe glaze and a non-safe glaze does not produce a food safe glaze.

Are Exotic glazes overglaze compatible?
a glaze may not be marked as overglaze compatible, this may not preclude the use of an overglaze on the glaze. This simply means that fired results may take on a different than expected look. While some may not care for the effect, others may find it attractive. Note that Gold and Mother of Pearl take on the look of the surface to which they are applied. This means a matte finish will yield a matte Gold or Mother of Pearl.