Unleash the Scientist Within: Mastering Glaze Chemistry in Manchester
Most potters start their journey by dipping their work into a bucket of "mystery liquid" and hoping for the best. But if you’ve ever been disappointed by a "drab" brown when you expected a "vibrant" blue, it’s time to look under the hood.
At 7 Spot Pottery, we are proud to host the only comprehensive Glaze Chemistry Workshop in the North West. While many studios focus purely on form, we empower you to master the finish.
Why Learn Glaze Chemistry?
There is something deeply creative and empowering about moving beyond commercial, store-bought glazes. When you understand the science, you stop "guessing" and start "designing."
Total Control: Want a specific matte finish or a unique "running" effect? You can create it from scratch.
Sustainability: Mixing your own glazes from raw materials reduces plastic packaging and transportation footprints.
Signature Style: In a world of mass-produced ceramics, having a "signature glaze" is what sets an artisan potter apart.
The Basics: A Potter’s Cheat Sheet
In our workshop, we demystify the "Unity Molecular Formula" (UMF) and the three main components that make up every glaze:
Silica - the glass former
Flux - Lowers the melting point of your glaze
Alumina - Helps the glaze stick to your pot!
By adjusting the ratios of these three elements, you can create anything from a textured, stony surface to a high-gloss, crystal-clear finish.
The Only Course of its Kind in the North West
You used to have to travel to London or take a university degree to find high-level ceramic science training. We’ve changed that. Our Manchester-based workshop is designed for:
Hobbyists looking to level up their studio practice.
Professional makers wanting to reduce costs by mixing bulk raw materials.
Curious minds who love the intersection of art and science.
Being the only provider in the North West (serving Manchester, Liverpool, Cheshire, and Lancashire), our sessions fill up fast. We don't just teach you a recipe; we teach you how to troubleshoot a glaze, identify "crazing" or "shivering," and fix it forever.