How to Use Mason Stains in Ceramics?

Today we'll be learning how to apply color to clay with Mason Stains. Let's take a look at the materials. 

• Mason stains

• Wood stick

• Porcelain, Stoneware or other clay

• Container

• Water

• Scale

• Pair of gloves  

I frequently get the question, "How much stain do I need to use in order to achieve the desired color?" The answer to this question depends on your goal.

The ability to produce a pale, medium, and saturated hue will always be available. And there is a percentage assigned to each of these. For a light color, use 2% to 5% stain; for a medium tone, use 8% to 10% stain; and for a saturated color, use 15% percent or more stain.

What exactly does this mean?

Let's look at an example to see how it works.

If I want a light hue and my clay weighs 700 gms, I can calculate how much stain I'll need by multiplying the clay's weight by the % assigned to a pale hue. This formula will give me the amount of stain that I need. The medium color and the saturated color can then be created using the same formula.

0.02 (2%) x 700 = 14 gms of stain

0.08 (8%) x 700 = 56 gms of stain

0.15 (15%) x 700 = 105 gms of stain

So, before you start combining stains with your clay, you need to make a decision about the desired outcome.

When you're ready, start mixing your Mason Stain with water. Next, prepare your clay. To make it easier to blend with the stain, I like to split it into small pieces. After that, pour the stain solution into the clay and you're ready to begin mixing.

It normally takes a few minutes to blend the clay and make it even, and you could get tired, but the effort is worthwhile.

When you're ready, you can place your clay in a container or plastic bag for storage. Make sure there is no air within, and if your clay dries out, you can simply rehydrate it with water.

That’s it. Always test, experiment, and, if you have the time and patience, prepare your own samples.

Questions?

Drop them below or reach out to fran@fromfran.com