HydroGlaze is an underglaze that is formulated to be transferred through hydro dipping. Hydro dipping allows flat designs to wrap freely around forms and textured surfaces. Fire to witness cone 05. Cover with glaze when using on functional ware or to increase color’s intensity.

Materials Needed

  • HydroGlaze

  • Hydrographic Film

  • Screen Printing Supplies

  • Water Tank / Dams

  • Bucket of water

  • Protective Gloves

  • Dish Soap (for cleaning)

  • Vacuum Table (optional) (Build Guide)

Before You Begin / Things To Consider…

  1. Water Temperature: Cool or room temperature water is preferred for dipping. Hot water causes the film to expand rapidly which can pull apart the decal.

  2. Depth of Tank: The water tank should be deep enough to submerge the ceramic object into it easily.

  3. Size of Water Tank / Size of Decal: The wider the tank the more room for print to expand. Placing a small print into a large tank leaves too much room for the film to expand and could cause the decal to break apart. (This can be addressed with dams that contain the print in a designated space or with a smaller dipping tank)

  4. Work Space: Handle the hydrographic film in the studio with care, as it is highly sensitive to water. Even minimal contact with moisture can dissolve the film and damage the roll.

Application Process

  1. Stir the HydroGlaze:
    • Start by thoroughly stirring HydroGlaze to ensure all ingredients are evenly mixed.

  2. Cut the Hydrographic Film:
    • Cut the hydrographic film slightly larger than the design.

  3. Printing with HydroGlaze:

    • Secure the hydrographic film onto the printing table (with tape, adhesive matt, vacuum table) to prevent it from sticking to the underside of the silkscreen. If using tape, be sure the film is taut before printing.

    • Place an adequate amount of HydroGlaze onto the silkscreen, then print directly onto the film.

  4. Transfer Film to Water Tank:

    • Carefully pick up and place the printed film in the water tank, print side facing up. Allow the film to absorb the water for approximately 20-30 seconds.

  5. Submerge the Ceramic:
    • Slowly dip your ceramic into the design, allowing the print to stretch around the form and textures.

  6. Rinse:

    • Place freshly dipped piece into a bucket of water to allow the film residue to wash away. This takes approximately 5 minutes.

    • After rinsing the surface, there should be no noticeable sheen or tackiness left from the residue. Check for any remaining residue, by gently touch an area that is free of print. Avoid making contact with the printed areas, as the ink is still be wet.

    • Ink can be fired when wet. If left out the ink will dry and can still be fired later.

  7. Firing:
    Fire to the desired temperature to permanently adhere the decal.

Following these steps will help you achieve a beautiful finish with HydroGlaze creating a durable design.