3 Pink Combo collection by Lee Elliott

The MAYCO Pink Combo collection by Lee Elliott is a beautiful group of ceramic test pieces that explores layered pink glaze combinations on Laguna’s S52 Buff clay. Each piece shows a different pink-toned result, from rich variegated surfaces to softer pastel finishes. Fired to cone 6 in a community kiln, this collection highlights how different glaze pairings can create movement, texture, and depth within a similar color family.

What makes this MAYCO Pink Combo collection especially interesting is the range of surface effects. Some combinations produce lively visual texture with stronger contrast, while others create a gentler, more delicate pink finish. Together, these pieces offer useful inspiration for potters looking for pink glaze ideas with warmth, variation, and decorative appeal.

Visual Effect of the MAYCO Pink Combo Collection

The overall effect of the MAYCO Pink Combo collection is warm, expressive, and varied. Although all the pieces stay within a pink-centered palette, each glaze pairing creates a noticeably different result. Some pieces have more depth and contrast, while others feel airy, soft, and almost pastel.

This makes the collection especially useful for ceramic artists who want to compare pink glaze behavior in a focused way. It shows that even within one narrow color family, glaze pairing can dramatically affect the final look of the piece.

Step-by-Step Testing Approach

1. Start with test pieces made from Laguna’s S52 Buff clay.
2. Apply the base glaze in 2 coats.
3. Apply the second glaze in 2 coats.
4. Keep the application consistent across the pieces for easier comparison.
5. Fire all pieces to cone 6.
6. Compare the final results for variation in color, movement, and texture.

Combination 1: Sandstone and Peppered Plum

Sandstone and Peppered Plum create a bold and expressive pink glaze combination with rich variation and strong visual texture. On Laguna’s 52 Buff clay, this pairing develops a layered surface with warm golden breaks, deep plum tones, and soft pink movement throughout the form. Fired to cone 6 in a community kiln, the result is vibrant, decorative, and full of depth, making this combination a striking option for potters exploring pink-centered glaze effects

Combination 2: Oyster and Peppered Plum

MAYCO Oyster and Peppered Plum create a softer, more layered pink glaze combination with gentle movement and a warm, textured finish. On Laguna’s 52 Buff clay, this pairing develops a balanced surface where the lighter Oyster glaze softens the stronger pink and plum tones, allowing the carved texture to stand out beautifully. Fired to cone 6 in a community kiln, the result feels decorative, earthy, and full of subtle variation, making it a lovely choice for potters exploring textured pink glaze effects.

Combination 3: Birch and Rose Quartz

MAYCO Birch and Rose Quartz create a soft, delicate pink glaze combination with a lighter, more subtle finish than the other pieces in the collection. On Laguna’s 52 Buff clay, this pairing produces a pale blush surface with gentle variation and a quiet, airy quality that highlights the carved texture without overwhelming it. Fired to cone 6 in a community kiln, the result feels elegant, understated, and refined, making it a beautiful option for potters looking for a calm and decorative pink glaze effect.

Tips and Notes

• Testing on your own clay and in your own kiln is always recommended.
• Pink glaze combos can vary significantly depending on the clay body.
• Consistent coat counts help make glaze comparisons more reliable.
• Texture on the form may affect how the glaze breaks and pools.
• Cone 6 firing can bring out different levels of movement and variation in layered pink glazes.

Credit: Lee Elliott