Block Printing with Underglazes on Bisque Tile
by AMACO brent
Printing is a very popular art form that is perfect for creating repeating patterns, images and designs. Printmaking techniques can easily be transferred into working with clay with the help of AMACO® Balsa-Foam® and AMACO® Underglazes, along with the many tools you already have in your classroom. This is the second technique in our lesson plan on printing and embossing with Balsa-Foam and underglazes.
Sketch
Lightly sketch a design or image onto the Balsa-Foam® block using a soft pencil.
Carve Balsa-Foam
Carve the design into the Balsa-Foam® along the pencil lines by using wooden or carving tools. Varying the lines depths and widths will help make a more unique and interesting block. Be sure not to carve completely through the Balsa-Foam® block.
Completed Carving
Apply Underglaze
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Using a sponge stippling tool, apply AMACO® Velvets or LUG Underglazes only to the high points of the decorated side of your Balsa-Foam® block.
Press
Lightly press the block onto a bisque tile or flat section of a plate or bowl.
Apply additional colors
Multiple colors could be applied during the same printing.
Reapply underglaze before each printing
Re-apply colors for additional prints or to create a repeating pattern.
Glaze
Once the underglazes are dry, clear glaze may be brushed on before glaze firing.
Paint, if desired
Additional colors or underglaze highlights may be painted onto the design.
Video
Supplies
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pencil
balsa foam
Velvet Underglaze
AMACO Ceramic Tiles
Glaze Brushes
Hardwood Modeling Tools
