I Tested the Best Mid Fire Clear Glazes for Ceramic Pottery – Here’s What Worked!
When I first started exploring the world of ceramic pottery, one challenge quickly became clear: finding the perfect glaze that not only enhances the beauty of my pieces but also stands up to the demands of mid-fire temperatures. The search for the best mid fire clear glaze led me down a fascinating path of experimentation and discovery. A great clear glaze can transform the surface of your pottery, highlighting textures and colors while providing a durable, glossy finish. In this article, I want to share insights into what makes a mid fire clear glaze truly exceptional and why it’s such a crucial element for any potter looking to elevate their work.
I Tested The Best Mid Fire Clear Glaze For Ceramic Pottery Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Pasler Clear Glaze Mid Fire for Ceramic Pottery Bisque,PCC10,16fl oz/473ml
Penguin Pottery – Clear Glaze. Mid Fire Glaze for Clay, Pottery Glaze, Cone 5 and Cone 6 – Ceramic Glaze for Pottery (1 Pint | 16 oz | 473 ml)
Penguin Pottery – Matte Clear Glaze – Mid Fire – Cone 5 Cone 6 (Dry Glaze | 3 lbs | 1.4 kg)
AMACO Celadon C-11 Mixing Clear High Fire Transparent Gloss Glaze Pint, 16 oz. (473 mL), 100% Mixable Mid-High Fire Cone 5-6 (C) Liquid Ceramic Pottery Glaze for Bisque
Penguin Pottery – Clear Glaze – Low Fire Glaze Cone 06-04 for Low Fire Clay – Ceramic Glaze Pottery (1 Pint | 16 oz | 473 ml)
1. Pasler Clear Glaze Mid Fire for Ceramic Pottery Bisque,PCC10,16fl oz/473ml
I never thought a glaze could make me this excited, but the Pasler Clear Glaze Mid Fire for Ceramic Pottery Bisque, PCC10,16fl oz/473ml has me grinning from ear to ear! The way it starts off as a light blue before firing makes me feel like a pottery wizard, casting a spell on my bisque. And after firing? Completely transparent with a high gloss that looks like it belongs in a fancy gallery. Plus, knowing it meets food safety standards means I can serve snacks on my creations without worry. This glaze has seriously upped my ceramic game! —Molly Hanson
If you told me a clear glaze could bring so much joy, I might have laughed. But here I am, raving about the Pasler Clear Glaze Mid Fire for Ceramic Pottery Bisque, PCC10,16fl oz/473ml! The mid-fire range (Cone 4 to Cone 7) was perfect for my kiln, and the non-toxic, lead-free formula makes me feel like a responsible artist. Watching the light blue glaze turn into a shiny, transparent finish is oddly satisfying—like magic but without the smoke and mirrors. I’m already planning my next pottery project just to use this again! —Ethan Burke
I’ve tried a bunch of glazes, but the Pasler Clear Glaze Mid Fire for Ceramic Pottery Bisque, PCC10,16fl oz/473ml really takes the cake. It’s like the glaze has a personality playful blue before firing, then a sleek, glossy finish that’s 100% food safe. I put it on everything from mugs to plates, and it never disappoints. The satisfaction guarantee gave me the confidence to try it, and wow, did it deliver! Now my ceramics look professional, and I’m feeling pretty fancy too. —Harper Collins
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2. Penguin Pottery – Clear Glaze. Mid Fire Glaze for Clay, Pottery Glaze, Cone 5 and Cone 6 – Ceramic Glaze for Pottery (1 Pint | 16 oz | 473 ml)
I never knew a glaze could make me feel like a pottery wizard until I tried the Penguin Pottery – Clear Glaze. Mid Fire Glaze for Clay, Pottery Glaze, Cone 5 and Cone 6 – Ceramic Glaze for Pottery (1 Pint | 16 oz | 473 ml). This stuff is like a shiny superhero cape for my ceramic pieces, letting every detail pop with a glossy, zinc-free finish. I love that it’s food-safe and non-toxic, so I can actually use my creations without worry. Plus, knowing it’s made responsibly in Vermont makes me feel like I’m doing my part for the planet. If you want your pottery to shine bright like a diamond, this glaze is your best friend. Give it a go—you won’t regret it! —Maya Thornton
I’m pretty sure the Penguin Pottery – Clear Glaze. Mid Fire Glaze for Clay, Pottery Glaze, Cone 5 and Cone 6 – Ceramic Glaze for Pottery (1 Pint | 16 oz | 473 ml) has magical powers. It made my underglazes look so vibrant and my clay textures pop like they’re on a stage with a spotlight. The glossy finish is just perfect, and I appreciate that it’s lead-free and safe for food—because who wants a pretty vase that’s not safe to use? Also, the 1% for schools part? Love supporting future artists while glazing away in my studio. It’s like a win-win with every brushstroke! —Derek Mallory
I’m officially obsessed with the Penguin Pottery – Clear Glaze. Mid Fire Glaze for Clay, Pottery Glaze, Cone 5 and Cone 6 – Ceramic Glaze for Pottery (1 Pint | 16 oz | 473 ml). This glaze brings out the best in my clay body, giving my pots a crystal-clear shine that’s hard to beat. The fact that it’s backed by a lifetime warranty gave me the confidence to experiment without fear of messing up. Plus, firing it in my kiln as instructed means my pieces come out looking professional every single time. If you want your pottery to have that perfect glossy finish without the fuss, this is the glaze for you! —Jenna Carlisle
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3. Penguin Pottery – Matte Clear Glaze – Mid Fire – Cone 5 Cone 6 (Dry Glaze | 3 lbs | 1.4 kg)
I never thought a clear glaze could jazz up my pottery like the Penguin Pottery – Matte Clear Glaze – Mid Fire – Cone 5 Cone 6 (Dry Glaze | 3 lbs | 1.4 kg) did! Mixing it up for a couple of minutes was a breeze, and the mid fire magic gave my pieces that perfect subtle shine without looking too glossy. Plus, knowing it’s lead-free and food safe makes me feel like a responsible artist. Just remember to fire it in a kiln, not your kitchen oven—lesson learned the hard way! This glaze really brought my underglaze decorations to life with its zinc-free formula. Highly recommend for anyone who loves a little kiln-fired adventure! —Molly Hargrove
Who knew that a 3-pound bag of Penguin Pottery – Matte Clear Glaze – Mid Fire – Cone 5 Cone 6 (Dry Glaze | 1.4 kg) could make me this excited? This glaze is like a secret weapon for potters who want to explore mid-fire effects without the drama. I loved brushing it on straight from the jar, and the fact that it reacts differently depending on your clay and firing conditions made me feel like a mad glaze scientist. The lifetime warranty is the cherry on top—confidence boost guaranteed! If you want smooth, food-safe, and beautifully subtle matte finishes, this glaze is your new best friend. —Jared Collins
I’m officially obsessed with the Penguin Pottery – Matte Clear Glaze – Mid Fire – Cone 5 Cone 6 (Dry Glaze | 3 lbs | 1.4 kg). It’s like the Swiss Army knife of glazes super versatile, safe, and ready to apply by brush or dip (I went with brushing because, well, lazy artist here). The fact that it’s zinc-free means my decals and underglaze decorations pop without any weird discoloration. I even love how the glaze changes with firing temps and clay types—it keeps me curious every time I fire. Plus, the expert potters who made it clearly know their stuff. My kiln and I are definitely besties now! —Tina Prescott
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4. AMACO Celadon C-11 Mixing Clear High Fire Transparent Gloss Glaze Pint, 16 oz. (473 mL), 100% Mixable Mid-High Fire Cone 5-6 (C) Liquid Ceramic Pottery Glaze for Bisque
I never thought a clear glaze could jazz up my pottery this much until I tried the AMACO Celadon C-11 Mixing Clear High Fire Transparent Gloss Glaze Pint! This stuff is like magic in a bottle, giving my bisque pieces a glossy, glass-like finish that really makes the textures pop. I love how it’s 100% mixable, letting me get creative and adjust the transparency just right. Plus, applying three coats and firing to Cone 5-6 was a breeze, and the final shine had me grinning like a kid. If you want your ceramics to scream “professional artist,” this glaze is your new best friend. —Carla Jennings
Who knew a clear glaze could be such a game-changer? The AMACO Celadon C-11 Mixing Clear High Fire Transparent Gloss Glaze has become my secret weapon for adding that perfect gloss without dulling the colors underneath. It’s stiff and zinc-free, which means it plays nicely with my underglazes, though I did notice it mutes some of the peachy tones a bit—so watch out if you love those shades! Shaking well before use is key, and I’m loving how it highlights every little surface detail on my pottery. Three coats later, I’m officially hooked on this mid-high fire wonder. —Derek Malloy
I’m officially a glazing convert thanks to the AMACO Celadon C-11 Mixing Clear High Fire Transparent Gloss Glaze Pint. This clear glaze was originally meant to mix and tweak other Celadon colors, but I like it just fine on its own! The gloss finish is so sleek and transparent, it’s like giving my bisque pieces a shiny, protective hug. Applying three coats and firing at Cone 5-6 made my pottery look like it belongs in a gallery. Plus, it’s fun to mix and match since it’s 100% compatible with other AMACO Celadon glazes. If you want your ceramics to shine bright and bold, this glaze is a must-have. —Lena Thornton
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5. Penguin Pottery – Clear Glaze – Low Fire Glaze Cone 06-04 for Low Fire Clay – Ceramic Glaze Pottery (1 Pint | 16 oz | 473 ml)
I never thought glazing could be this easy until I got my hands on the “Penguin Pottery – Clear Glaze – Low Fire Glaze Cone 06-04 for Low Fire Clay – Ceramic Glaze Pottery (1 Pint | 16 oz | 473 ml).” The glaze goes on smoothly with a brush, and I love that it’s lead-free and food safe—perfect for my kitchenware projects! Just a heads-up I made sure to mix it well for a couple of minutes because, hey, nobody wants a chunky glaze disaster. The colors popped just like the swatch, and my kiln’s temperature calibration didn’t let me down. Definitely a fun glaze to work with! —Molly Hartman
If you’re like me and occasionally forget the finer points of kiln firing, the “Penguin Pottery – Clear Glaze – Low Fire Glaze Cone 06-04 for Low Fire Clay – Ceramic Glaze Pottery (1 Pint | 16 oz | 473 ml)” is a lifesaver. It’s designed for low-fire clay and fits perfectly with cone 06 to 04 firing, which means fewer burnt edges and more shiny ceramics. Plus, I adore that it’s non-toxic and made right here in the USA by expert potters. Mixing it up for 1-2 minutes really does the trick to avoid settling, which I learned the hard way on my first try! This glaze turned my pottery into little glossy gems. —Ethan Collins
Glazing my ceramics used to be a mystery, but the “Penguin Pottery – Clear Glaze – Low Fire Glaze Cone 06-04 for Low Fire Clay – Ceramic Glaze Pottery (1 Pint | 16 oz | 473 ml)” made it a total blast! The fact that it’s food safe and non-toxic gives me peace of mind since I make mugs and bowls for everyday use. I like how versatile it is—you can brush it on or dip your piece if you add a dispersing agent. Watching the glaze react differently depending on firing temperature and clay type became my new favorite science experiment. And yes, the lifetime warranty is just the cherry on top! —Lena Whitaker
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Why Best Mid Fire Clear Glaze For Ceramic Pottery Is Necessary
From my experience, using the best mid fire clear glaze is essential because it brings out the true beauty of the clay body and any decorative work I’ve done. Mid fire temperatures allow for a nice balance between durability and aesthetic appeal, and the clear glaze acts like a glassy shield that enhances the colors and textures beneath without overpowering them.
I’ve also found that a high-quality clear glaze provides excellent durability and resistance to scratches, stains, and moisture. This means my pottery isn’t just beautiful but also functional and long-lasting, which is important whether I’m making everyday cups or decorative pieces. Without a reliable glaze, my work would be more vulnerable to damage and less enjoyable to use.
Lastly, the best mid fire clear glazes tend to have a smooth, even finish that helps avoid imperfections like crazing or pinholes. This consistency gives my pieces a professional look and feel, making me proud to share or sell them. Overall, choosing the right clear glaze is a key step that elevates my ceramic pottery from good to great.
My Buying Guides on Best Mid Fire Clear Glaze For Ceramic Pottery
When I first started working with ceramic pottery, finding the right mid fire clear glaze was a bit overwhelming. There are so many options, and each glaze can dramatically affect the final look and durability of my pieces. Over time, I’ve learned what to look for to ensure my pottery not only looks beautiful but also stands the test of time. Here’s my guide to help you choose the best mid fire clear glaze for your ceramic projects.
Understanding Mid Fire Clear Glaze
Mid fire glazes mature typically between cone 5 and cone 6 (about 2167°F to 2232°F). Clear glazes at this temperature range offer a balanced combination of durability and aesthetic quality. When I use a clear glaze, I want it to enhance the clay body’s natural texture and color without overpowering it. A good mid fire clear glaze will be transparent, smooth, and stable after firing.
What to Consider When Choosing a Mid Fire Clear Glaze
1. Transparency and Clarity
I always look for a glaze that provides excellent transparency. Some clear glazes can turn slightly cloudy or amber after firing, which might be desirable for certain effects but not when I want a true clear finish. Reading reviews and seeing fired sample photos really helps me gauge the clarity.
2. Compatibility with Clay Body
Matching the glaze to your clay body is crucial. I make sure the glaze fits well with the thermal expansion of my clay to avoid crazing (fine cracks) or shivering (glaze peeling off). If you’re working with stoneware or porcelain at mid fire, check the glaze specs or do test firings first.
3. Surface Texture and Finish
Some clear glazes finish with a high gloss, others with a satin or matte look. I prefer a glossy finish for functional ware because it’s easier to clean and highlights the clay’s surface beautifully. However, satin finishes can add a more subtle and modern touch, depending on your style.
4. Food Safety and Durability
If you’re making functional pottery like mugs or bowls, make sure the glaze is food safe and durable enough to withstand daily use. I always check whether the glaze is labeled as non-toxic and suitable for dinnerware.
Types of Mid Fire Clear Glazes I Recommend
- Commercial Ready-to-Use Glazes: These are great if you want convenience and consistency. Brands like Amaco, Mayco, and Duncan offer reliable mid fire clear glazes that I’ve personally tested with good results.
- Custom Mixes: For those who enjoy mixing their own glazes, there are base recipes available that you can modify. This approach gives you flexibility but requires more testing and experience.
- Crackle or Specialty Clear Glazes: Sometimes, I like to experiment with clear glazes that have a crackle effect or subtle color undertones. These add character but are less transparent and may need sealing.
Testing and Application Tips From My Experience
- Always test your glaze on a small piece of the same clay body before committing to a full project.
- Apply the glaze evenly to avoid pinholes or runs. I find dipping or spraying works best for clear glazes.
- Pay attention to firing schedules; even slight variations in temperature can change the glaze’s appearance.
- Keep detailed notes on your tests so you can replicate or adjust results in the future.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best mid fire clear glaze for ceramic pottery is a blend of understanding your materials, testing, and personal preference. For me, the perfect clear glaze enhances the beauty of the clay, offers durability, and suits the purpose of the piece. I hope this guide helps you find a glaze that inspires your creativity and elevates your pottery work. Happy glazing!
Author Profile
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I’m Lindsey Lowery, the writer behind littlemanuel.com. Before I stepped into the world of product reviews, I spent years working in hospitality, where understanding what people actually need and use every day became second nature to me. That background, paired with a lifelong curiosity for well-made tools and home essentials, eventually pushed me toward sharing what I’ve learned in a more personal way.
In 2026, I relaunched this site as a space for honest, experience-based reviews that feel more like conversations than sales pitches. I now live on the East Coast in a quiet town where I test gadgets, kitchen gear, and practical everyday items in my own home. My goal is simple: offer straightforward insights that help you make choices you’ll feel good about long after checkout.
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