Mayco Ritual Beads Glaze - Produce Colourful Raised Beads
Texture in ceramics can transform simple forms into visually engaging pieces. With the introduction of Mayco's Ritual Beads glaze, ceramic artists and those running studio classes have an exciting way to create dramatic raised surfaces and add texture and pops of colour at mid-range to high-fire temperatures.
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What Are Ritual Beads?
Mayco's Ritual Beads are specialty stoneware glazes designed to produce raised bead patterns; the beads create a textured effect that varies depending on application thickness and firing conditions. Available in a range of colours including: White, Yellow, Orange, Red, Pink, Turquoise, Pastel Blue, Blue, and Black, the collection offers endless possibilities for experimentation and creative expression.
How the Bead Effect Works?
- Light applications of one to two coats create a subtle crawl effect with smaller surface breaks.
- Heavier applications of three to six coats develop the signature raised bead texture with pronounced dimension and separation.
Create a number of effects, by the amount of glaze applied:
Application Techniques for Best Results
The glaze can be applied to greenware or cone-04 stoneware bisque; it is best to dampen the bisque with a sponge before applying. For best coverage, use a soft fan brush and alternate the direction of each coat; always shake and stir the glaze first.
Allow each layer to dry fully. Once the glossy sheen is gone, apply the next coat; this will help the bead pattern to develop during firing. As layers build, fine hairline cracking may appear; this is a normal part of the process and contributes to the final textured result. Be careful not to overhandle, as it may cause the glaze to flake or pop off; we recommend firing as soon as possible after application to ensure proper adhesion.
Layering Mayco Ritual Bead Glaze Colours
Combine multiple Bead colours to create your desired visual effect; note the first colour applied tends to remain the most prominent, while subsequent layers add depth. By alternating application direction between layers, you can further enhance the final pattern.
Over Underglazes and Engobes
Ritual Beads maintain their dimensional quality when applied over underglazes and stoneware engobes. This allows ceramic artists to combine colour, imagery and surface texture without sacrificing the raised effect. Bisque firing the underglaze or engobe before applying Mayco Beads is recommended for best adhesion and performance.
Ritual Beads can be tinted by mixing colour products at approximately a 1:4 ratio with Ritual Beads, makers can expand beyond the standard colour offerings and create customised surface effects tailored to specific projects.
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Firing Flexibility
Another advantage of Mayco's Ritual Beads is its broad firing range. The glaze performs across cone 5 through cone 10 temperatures. Lower stoneware temperatures generally preserve the raised texture more effectively, while higher temperatures can soften and spread the glaze surface. As with any specialty glaze, we recommend testing on your chosen clay body first.
Firing Temperatures. Cone 5-10 (2167°F-2345°F/ 1186°C-1285°C).
- Cone 5–6 (2167°F / 1186°C to 2232°F / 1222°C): Produces a raised beaded texture with varied shapes and sizes.
- Cone 10 (2345°F / 1285°C): Glaze will soften and spread.
Transform ordinary ceramic and Bisque forms into highly compelling pieces. Whether used as a subtle crawl effect, a dramatic raised texture, or part of a layered glazing process, the collection opens new creative avenues for potters, sculptors, and ceramic artists. For more on Ritual Beads Glaze watch Mayco's video!
