Opaque underglazes are generally used for large solid area coverage. They are opaque and will block out other underglaze colors over which they are applied. Underglazes are occasionally used in a specific technique with no covering glaze.

Product Features, Attributes and Application Recommendations:

• Underglazes can be used directly from the jar, but should be put out onto a tile to avoid possible contamination of the remaining product in the jar. Make sure the consistency is like melted ice cream.
• Dip a dampened, blotted brush into the color. Fully load the brush without dragging the brush on the side of the tile. Apply the color in a flowing motion; if it starts to drag, reload the brush. The clay will absorb the moisture from the color, so care has to be used when applying. As you flow the color on, avoid ridges and runs. Brush these flaws out as you apply the color.
• On an embossed piece do not allow excess color to build up. Brush the excess out of the crevices as you apply the underglaze.
• Apply the first coat. When the dark wet look has disappeared, apply the second coat at a right angle to the first. The third is then applied at a right angle to the second coat. This will assure better coverage.
• There are other methods for applying opaque and translucent underglazes. Sponging and spattering are two other common means of application.
• Apply to greenware.
• Lightly dampening the ware with a moistened sponge before painting allows better adhesion to the ware.
• Shake the jar well before application. Product should be the consistency of melted ice cream.
• Apply with a soft brush. Use the largest brush to cover the area. Can also be sponged or spattered.
• Apply three smooth even coats. The coats are applied at right angles to one another.
• Do not thin for general application.
• All colors are intermixable.
• Clean brushes with Brush Cleaner and warm water.
• Thin with water.
• Generally a glaze finish is applied after firing to bring out the true color and vividness of the product.
• Opaque Underglazes are not true color out of the jar.
• Fire to shelf cone 04. Can be high-fired. Check the Mayco High Fire Guide for stability at higher temperatures.

Special Notes:

• Four coats are required for UG-84, UG-85, and UG-86.
• Can be tinted with One Stroke Translucent Underglazes.

1. Apply three coats of underglaze with a brush, in the usual manner, to assure all over coverage. Apply the colors very evenly and smoothly. Do not allow prolonged drying time between the coats.
2. Thin the same color, half-and-half, with water and mix well. Prepare a ball of soft facial tissue or soft T-shirt material.
3. Apply the thinned mixture to a small area about the size of the palm of your hand.
4. When the shiny wet look disappears and the color will not stick to the pad, polish that area briskly. The pressure should be light and the movement fast. It is the friction from the polishing that develops the sheen.
5. Continue to apply the diluted color mixture to a small area at a time, each one slightly overlapping the previous one, until all of the piece has been polished. Now buff the entire surface again, without wetting, until a high sheen has developed. If the color looks blotchy, this will disappear as the piece dries.
6. If you wish to add a design using other opaque underglazes or translucent underglazes, be careful not to mar the surface. Use a soft cloth to hold the piece to protect it from body oils and moisture. Wait until the piece has thoroughly dried before tracing the design so the pressure of the transferring does not mar the surface.
7. If a design is being added with any of glaze, properly firing the piece to shelf cone 04 before adding the design will avoid problems. For UG-151 Fire Engine Red, see the description under Specialty/Bisque Glazes.