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Block Printing with Underglazes on Bisque Tile

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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.

Supplies

  1. Pencil
  2. Balsa Foam
  3. Velvet Underglaze
  4. AMACO Ceramic Tiles
  5. Glaze Brushes
  6. Hardwood Modeling Tools

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

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