The Magic and Chemistry of Luster Glazes with Lisa Zolandz

Details 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. Location Still Life Studio Ferndale 700 Livernois St., Ferndale, MI, 48220 This is a two-day workshop meeting on: Saturday, August 15th, 2026: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Sunday, August 16th, 2026: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Class Outline: 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 the 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 be either fired on a riser and catch plate (as 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 your own bisqueware Max 8" height per piece 7 pieces total Total combined volume of the pieces must not exceed a limit of 150 cubic inches, and this restriction applies to the entire batch as a whole - not to each individual piece. This includes the height of a riser/catcher/wadded on cookie. use cone 5/6 clay; no black clay glaze catchers for your pieces About The Artist 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. Policies 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.