The Magic and Chemistry of Luster Glazes with Lisa Zolandz
- Details
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- Class Outline:
- About The Artist
- Policies
Part science and part alchemy, in-glaze lusters are a special glaze containing metals (bismuth, silver) that develop fascinating iridescence when reduction fired. Learn how to make and fire in-glaze lusters at mid and high fire temperatures with Lisa Zolandz. Lisa’s process involves an initial firing of the in-glaze luster to cone 6 in an electric kiln, followed by a secondary alcohol-drip reduction. Participants will have the opportunity to work with luster glazes in a hands-on fashion, and leave with an extensive knowledge of glaze chemistry.
588 Mateo St, Los Angeles, CA, 90013
This is a two-day workshop meeting on:
- Saturday, April 18th, 2026: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Sunday, April 19th, 2026: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
In this two-day workshop, Lisa will discuss the chemistry of luster glazes, multiple methods of post fire reduction and how she approaches glaze testing and development. She will share her results from extensive testing and experimentation.
Lisa’s process involves an initial firing of the in-glaze luster to cone 6 in an electric kiln, followed by a secondary alcohol-drip reduction. Attendees will have to opportunity to apply luster glazes, load the reduction firing, and undoubtedly see how incredibly variable these glazes are.
Notes: The luster glaze is quite runny, so it is recommended that pieces are either fired on a riser and catch plate (like is done with crystalline glazes) or on a kiln washed cookie with walls. Some of the glazes will contain silver nitrate, which stains - gloves will be provided, but attendees should wear clothing they do not mind getting stained.
Items to Bring
- up to (8) bisque pieces (max 8" in any direction)
- Use cone 5/6 clay, no black clay
- Use cone 5/6 clay, no black clay
- glaze catchers for your pieces
Lisa Zolandz is a full-time studio potter based in Manassas, VA. Coming to ceramics with a background in the sciences, she naturally found her passion in glaze chemistry. For the past decade she has been working with crystalline glazes and more recently with iridescent in-glaze lusters. She exhibits at fine art festivals throughout the country and spends countless hours testing and developing glazes. Find more of Lisa's work here.
By enrolling in a class or workshop, you are acknowledging that you have read and understand the safety instructions and liability waiver.
Cancellations made 4 or more days before the start of the class will be refunded. For cancellations made fewer than 4 full days, but more than 24 hours before the start time, a 50% refund or 50% credit toward another class or workshop will be issued. We cannot provide refunds or credits for cancellations or rescheduling requests made fewer than 24 hours before the start time of class, if you miss your class, or arrive too late to participate.
