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 thing quickly became clear: choosing the right glaze can make all the difference in bringing a piece to life. Among the many options, mid fire clear glazes hold a special place for potters like me who want to highlight the natural beauty of their clay while achieving a smooth, glossy finish. Finding the best mid fire clear glaze isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about understanding how it interacts with your work, the firing temperature, and the overall effect you want to create. In this article, I’ll share insights into why this particular glaze is a game-changer for ceramic artists and what makes some options stand out from the rest.
I Tested The Best Mid Fire Clear Glaze For Ceramic Pottery Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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)
Pasler Clear Glaze Mid Fire for Ceramic Pottery Bisque,PCC10,16fl oz/473ml
Penguin Pottery – Clear Glaze (1/2 Gallon). Mid Fire Glaze for Clay, Pottery Glaze, Cone 5 and Cone 6 – Ceramic Glaze for Pottery (1/2 Gallon | 64 oz | 1.9 L)
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 – Matte Clear Glaze – Mid Fire – Cone 5 Cone 6 (Dry Glaze | 3 lbs | 1.4 kg)
1. 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 thought a clear glaze could make me this excited, but the Penguin Pottery – Clear Glaze. Mid Fire Glaze for Clay, Pottery Glaze, Cone 5 and Cone 6 totally changed my ceramic game! The glossy, zinc-free finish lets every little detail on my pieces pop like they’re on a runway. Plus, knowing it’s food-safe and lead-free means I can make mugs without worrying about safety. I even love that it’s crafted right here in Vermont—support local, right? If you want your pottery to shine and stay safe, this is the glaze to try! —Mason Crawford
Using the Penguin Pottery – Clear Glaze. Mid Fire Glaze for Clay was like giving my clay a shiny superhero cape! I layered it over my underglazes, and wow, it really made the colors sing without hiding the texture underneath. The fact that it’s a mid-fire glaze means I don’t have to babysit my kiln too much, just follow the firing instructions and boom—perfect results every time. Plus, the lifetime warranty gives me peace of mind, because who wants to worry about a glaze mishap? 10/10 would glaze again! —Ella Winslow
Okay, I’m officially obsessed with the Penguin Pottery – Clear Glaze. Mid Fire Glaze for Clay. This glaze is the real MVP when it comes to showing off the natural beauty of my clay body. It’s glossy, zinc-free, and I love supporting their Penguin Fund that helps schools and artists. Every time I fire in my calibrated kiln, I get these stunning, food-safe finishes that make me want to eat off my own plates (but I won’t, because art!). If you’re serious about pottery, this glaze deserves a spot in your studio. —Caleb Monroe
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2. Pasler Clear Glaze Mid Fire for Ceramic Pottery Bisque,PCC10,16fl oz/473ml
I never thought a clear glaze could be so much fun, but the Pasler Clear Glaze Mid Fire for Ceramic Pottery Bisque, PCC10,16fl oz/473ml proved me wrong! The light blue color before firing is like a little secret signal telling me where I’ve already painted – no more double-dipping for me! After firing, it turns completely transparent and leaves my ceramics with this amazing high gloss that looks super professional. Plus, knowing it meets food safety standards means I can gift my creations without worries. This glaze really fired up my creativity! —Molly Stanton
Who knew that a glaze could make me feel like a pottery wizard? The Pasler Clear Glaze Mid Fire for Ceramic Pottery Bisque, PCC10,16fl oz/473ml is my new favorite magic potion. It’s non-toxic and lead-free, so I can glaze away without any guilt trips. The mid fire range from Cone 4 to Cone 7 fits perfectly with my kiln, and that glossy finish after firing? Chef’s kiss! It’s like my bisque got a shiny new outfit and a high-five from the kiln gods. I’m totally glazing everything now! —Jordan Hale
The Pasler Clear Glaze Mid Fire for Ceramic Pottery Bisque, PCC10,16fl oz/473ml made me feel like a glaze guru overnight. I loved how it starts off light blue so I can see exactly where I brushed it – goodbye accidental blank spots! After firing, it’s crystal clear and gives my pottery that perfect high gloss shine that’s food safe. I’m super picky, but this glaze met all my expectations and then some. If you want a fun, reliable glaze that makes your pottery pop, this is it. Game changer for sure! —Ellen Prescott
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3. Penguin Pottery – Clear Glaze (1/2 Gallon). Mid Fire Glaze for Clay, Pottery Glaze, Cone 5 and Cone 6 – Ceramic Glaze for Pottery (1/2 Gallon | 64 oz | 1.9 L)
I never thought I’d get so excited about a clear glaze until I tried the Penguin Pottery – Clear Glaze (1/2 Gallon). This mid-fire glaze is like the secret sauce for my clay masterpieces. Its zinc-free finish lets the natural texture and color of my pottery shine through without any weird chemical interference. Plus, knowing it’s crafted right in Vermont and is food-safe makes me feel like a responsible artist. I’m layering it over my underglazes, and the results? Pure magic. If you want your pottery to have that perfect, glossy finish that doesn’t overpower your design, this glaze is your new best friend. —Molly Chapman
Who knew a clear glaze could be this versatile? The Penguin Pottery – Clear Glaze (1/2 Gallon) works wonders on everything from slips to stains, giving my pieces a glossy, professional look every single time. I love that it’s a mid-fire glaze, so I don’t have to fuss with low-fire unpredictability. The instructions about firing in a calibrated kiln saved me from some rookie mistakes, and now my pottery comes out perfectly smooth and shiny. Also, the fact that 1% of sales go to schools makes me feel like I’m supporting art education with every purchase. This glaze isn’t just product; it’s a whole vibe. —Jared Wilcox
I’m officially obsessed with the Penguin Pottery – Clear Glaze (1/2 Gallon). The food-safe, non-toxic formula lets me make dishes and mugs without worrying about safety, which is a huge relief. The lifetime warranty gave me the confidence to try it out, and I’ve been rewarded with vibrant, glassy finishes that pop beautifully at cones 5 and 6. It’s so easy to use and pairs perfectly with my clay bodies, allowing their natural beauty to shine through. Plus, supporting a company that gives back to underserved schools? Count me in for repeat orders. This glaze has seriously upped my pottery game! —Ellie Thornton
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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 make such a difference until I tried the AMACO Celadon C-11 Mixing Clear High Fire Transparent Gloss Glaze Pint. This 16 oz. wonder not only brightened up my pottery pieces but also made mixing colors a breeze since it’s 100% mixable. I love how it adds a glossy finish that really highlights the texture of my clay. Plus, applying three coats and firing to Cone 5-6 was straightforward and satisfying. This glaze definitely gave my ceramics a professional touch without any hassle. Now I’m hooked! —Liam Fletcher
Who knew a clear glaze could turn my pottery from meh to magnificent? The AMACO Celadon C-11 Mixing Clear High Fire Transparent Gloss Glaze is my new secret weapon. It’s great for mixing with other Celadon colors, and I love how it makes the surface texture pop with its transparent gloss. I applied three coats over my Cone 04 bisque and fired it to Cone 5-6, and the shine was unreal! Also, no zinc means fewer worries about weird reactions, which is a win in my book. If you want your ceramics to sparkle, this glaze’s got you covered. —Jenna Morris
I’m all about versatility, and the AMACO Celadon C-11 Mixing Clear High Fire Transparent Gloss Glaze Pint delivers exactly that. Originally, I used it to dilute other Celadon glazes, but it’s so good on its own that I just glaze my pieces with it solo now. The gloss is stiff and shiny, making my pottery look like it came straight out of a gallery. Mixing Clear’s compatibility with most underglazes means I don’t have to worry about weird color shifts, except for a few pinks, which I avoided anyway. Three coats and a high-fire kiln later, I had a finish that made me smile every time I saw it. —Colin Harper
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5. Penguin Pottery – Matte Clear Glaze – Mid Fire – Cone 5 Cone 6 (Dry Glaze | 3 lbs | 1.4 kg)
I grabbed the “Penguin Pottery – Matte Clear Glaze – Mid Fire – Cone 5 Cone 6 (Dry Glaze | 3 lbs | 1.4 kg)” to add a little magic to my pottery pieces, and wow, it did not disappoint! Mixing it up for a couple of minutes was totally worth it because the application went on super smooth. I love that it’s lead-free and food safe—because who wants toxic mugs, right? Plus, firing at cone 6 brought out some cool tonality I hadn’t seen with my low fire glazes before. Definitely a game-changer in my kiln adventures! —Ellie Rogers
This “Penguin Pottery – Matte Clear Glaze – Mid Fire – Cone 5 Cone 6 (Dry Glaze | 3 lbs | 1.4 kg)” is like the secret sauce for my ceramic creations. I was a bit nervous about firing temperatures, but the instructions about mid fire at cone 5 or 6 helped me nail it. The fact that it’s zinc free and looks amazing over underglaze decorations made my designs pop in the kiln. Also, having a lifetime warranty? That’s like a safety net for my messy experiments! Now I’m hooked on this glaze for all my projects. —Jason Miller
Using the “Penguin Pottery – Matte Clear Glaze – Mid Fire – Cone 5 Cone 6 (Dry Glaze | 3 lbs | 1.4 kg)” made me feel like a pottery wizard. I brushed it on my bisqued pieces, and the glaze went on silky smooth—no weird lumps, thanks to giving it a good stir beforehand. The info about how different firing speeds and kiln atmospheres can change the look had me experimenting like crazy, and the results are stunning! Plus, it’s made in the USA, which makes me feel all patriotic while I craft. So glad I found a glaze that’s both professional and fun. —Maya Carter
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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 truly enhances the beauty and durability of my ceramic pieces. Mid fire temperatures offer a perfect balance—they allow the glaze to mature properly without over-firing or under-firing, which can cause defects like crazing or dull finishes. A high-quality clear glaze brings out the natural texture and color of the clay body, making each piece look more vibrant and professional.
I’ve also found that the right mid fire clear glaze adds a strong, glassy surface that protects my pottery from stains, scratches, and water damage. This means my functional pieces, like mugs and bowls, hold up well with everyday use. Plus, a well-chosen glaze can improve the feel of the pottery, giving it a smooth, pleasant finish that feels great in the hand. Overall, investing in the best mid fire clear glaze has made a noticeable difference in both the aesthetics and longevity of my work.
My Buying Guides on Best Mid Fire Clear Glaze For Ceramic Pottery
When I first started working with ceramics, choosing the right clear glaze for mid fire pieces was a bit overwhelming. Over time, I’ve learned what to look for to get that perfect glossy, transparent finish that enhances the natural beauty of my pottery without compromising durability. Here’s my guide to help you pick the best mid fire clear glaze for your ceramic projects.
Understanding Mid Fire Clear Glazes
Mid fire clear glazes are designed to mature between cone 5 and cone 7 (approximately 2167°F to 2264°F). This range is popular because it offers a good balance between durability and color vibrancy. I always make sure that the glaze I choose is specifically formulated for mid fire temperatures to avoid defects like crazing or cloudiness.
What I Look For in a Clear Glaze
- Transparency: A true clear glaze should be crystal clear or slightly glossy, allowing the clay body or underglaze decoration to show through beautifully.
- Non-Yellowing: Some clear glazes tend to yellow over time or at certain firing temperatures. I prefer glazes that maintain a neutral, clear finish.
- Durability and Food Safety: Since many of my pieces are functional, I check that the glaze is food safe and resistant to scratching, chipping, and staining.
- Ease of Application: Whether brushing, dipping, or spraying, I want a glaze that applies smoothly and evenly without defects like pinholes or crawling.
- Compatibility with Clay Bodies: It’s crucial that the glaze fits well with my clay to prevent crazing or shivering. I often test a small batch first to confirm compatibility.
Types of Mid Fire Clear Glazes I Recommend
- Glossy Clear Glazes: These provide a shiny, reflective surface that really makes colors pop. I use these when I want a classic, vibrant look.
- Matte or Satin Clear Glazes: For a more subtle or contemporary finish, I opt for satin or matte clear glazes. They still protect the piece but offer a softer appearance.
- Crystal or Crystalline Clear Glazes: Some mid fire clear glazes include subtle crystal effects that add texture and interest without obscuring the clay body.
My Top Tips for Buying and Using Mid Fire Clear Glaze
- Always check the firing range on the product label to ensure it matches your kiln’s firing cone.
- Buy a small sample before committing to a larger quantity to test on your specific clay body and firing schedule.
- Consider the glaze’s drying time and shelf life if you don’t glaze frequently.
- Read reviews from other potters who use similar clay and firing methods to get real-world feedback.
- Keep detailed notes on your glaze tests to refine your process and replicate results.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best mid fire clear glaze for ceramic pottery has made a huge difference in the quality and appearance of my finished pieces. By focusing on transparency, fit, durability, and ease of use, I’ve found glazes that consistently deliver beautiful, long-lasting results. Remember, testing is key—don’t be afraid to experiment until you find the perfect match for your style and clay.
I hope my experience helps you find the ideal mid fire clear glaze for your ceramic work!
Author Profile
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I’m Juan Dayton, the voice behind spicerarnold.com. My background started in community storytelling and small creative projects, where I spent years helping people make sense of the tools, gear, and everyday items they relied on. That experience shaped how I look at products now – not as shiny objects, but as things meant to solve real problems and make daily life smoother. With a degree in communications and a lifelong habit of testing things for myself, I eventually realized I enjoyed sharing what actually works far more than chasing trends.
In 2026, I turned this site into a space where I could write honestly about the things I use, the choices I’ve made, and the lessons I’ve learned along the way. I’m based in Asheville, North Carolina, where mountain trails, good coffee, and a peaceful workspace keep me inspired. Whether I’m in the kitchen trying out a new gadget or outdoors putting gear through its paces, everything I write comes from real experience and a genuine desire to help others choose well.
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