Spectrum Floating Glazes On The Mug by Danielle Dagett

Spectrum Floating Glazes are a relatively new addition to the ceramic glaze market. For instance, Potclays, a UK-based ceramics supplier, referred to them as an “exciting new range” in an October 2024 update. This suggests that these glazes were introduced around that time, making them a recent development in ceramic glazing options

The main feature of Spectrum Floating Glazes is their ability to create layered, multi-tonal effects that “float” over textured surfaces, producing dynamic color variations and depth. These glazes break over raised areas and pool in recesses, enhancing ceramic pieces with rich, flowing patterns.

Why This Combination Works

Floating glazes are designed to break and pool across the surface, producing variation rather than a completely uniform color. When several floating glazes are layered together, each glaze contributes its own character while also influencing the surrounding colors.

In this example:

• Cactus contributes cool green tones.
• Autumn Purple introduces lavender and blue-purple variation.
• Louisiana Bayou adds deeper blue areas.
• Sangria provides rich red and burgundy accents.
• Curry creates bright yellow highlights that increase contrast.

The result resembles a watercolor painting, with colors flowing into one another while remaining visually distinct.

Cone 6 Results on Laguna 66

Fired to Cone 6, the glazes developed strong movement and excellent color separation. Laguna 66 provides a stable background that allows the floating glazes to remain the primary visual feature of the piece.

This test demonstrates how Spectrum Floating Glazes can be used together to create highly dynamic surfaces while maintaining balance between bright and darker colors.

If you look close, you can see this mug does have a little foot that I left unglazed and I’m glad I did or it would have ran to the kiln shelf

Credit: Danielle Dagett