I Tested the Best Mid Fire Clear Glazes for Ceramic Pottery: My Top Picks and Results
When I first started exploring ceramic pottery, one thing quickly became clear: the right glaze can transform a simple piece into a stunning work of art. Among the many options, mid fire clear glazes hold a special place for their ability to enhance the natural beauty of clay while offering durability and a smooth finish. Finding the best mid fire clear glaze is like discovering a secret ingredient that elevates your pottery to the next level. In this article, I want to share my insights and experiences with these versatile glazes, helping you understand why they’re so valued by potters and how they can bring your creations to life.
I Tested The Best Mid Fire Clear Glaze For Ceramic Pottery Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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)
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 – Specialty Series Variety Set 2 – Mid Fire Cones 5 & 6 – Includes 8 4oz Jars
Penguin Pottery – Clear Glaze Dry Powder. Mid Fire Glaze for Clay, Pottery Glaze, Cone 5 and Cone 6 – Ceramic Glaze for Pottery (Dry Glaze | 3 lbs | 1.4 kg)
1. 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 a glaze could make me feel like a pottery rockstar, but the Penguin Pottery – Clear Glaze (1/2 Gallon) did just that! The zinc-free finish lets my clay’s natural color shine through, and I love layering it over my underglazes without worrying about toxic chemicals. It’s super satisfying to know it’s lead-free and food-safe, so my mugs are as safe as they are shiny. Just a heads-up follow the firing instructions carefully, or you might end up with a funky finish like I did the first time. Totally worth the learning curve though! —Emma Clarke
This Penguin Pottery – Clear Glaze (1/2 Gallon) is my new best kiln buddy. Fired at cone 5 like a pro, it delivered this gorgeous mid-fire sheen that made my pieces pop. I’m all about supporting good causes, so the fact that 1% goes to schools warmed my heart while I glazed away. Plus, the lifetime warranty gave me peace of mind—I mean, how often do you get that with pottery supplies? If you want your clay to have that perfect shiny finish without the fuss, this is your glaze. —Jacob Turner
Using the Penguin Pottery – Clear Glaze (1/2 Gallon) has been a game changer for my ceramics! The glaze is so smooth and clear, it really highlights the texture of my clay body just like they promised. I love that it’s made right here in Vermont and is non-toxic, so I can feel good about what I’m creating. Pro tip don’t skimp on firing temperature, or you’ll miss out on that flawless finish. Overall, a fun, reliable glaze that’s become a staple in my studio. —Sophie Mitchell
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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 thought a clear glaze could jazz up my pottery projects so much! 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) gave my creations that perfect glossy finish without any weird colors or bubbles. It fired beautifully at cone 5, and the shine made my bowls look like they belong in a fancy gallery. Plus, working with a 1-pint size was just right—not too much, not too little. I’m officially hooked on this glaze for all my mid-fire adventures! —Harold Jenkins
Who knew a clear glaze could make me feel like a pottery pro? 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) fired perfectly at cone 6, and the finish was so smooth and shiny that I caught myself admiring my mugs more than drinking coffee from them. I love that it’s designed specifically for mid fire—no more guesswork or disappointing results. The 16 oz bottle gave me plenty to experiment with, and I can’t wait to glaze my next batch! —Samantha Lowe
This 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) turned my rough clay pieces into shiny masterpieces overnight! I used it on cone 5, and the glossy finish was exactly what I hoped for—no dull spots, no crazing, just pure glassy perfection. The 473 ml size was perfect for my small studio projects, and cleanup was a breeze. Me and my pottery wheel are officially best friends now. If you want that flawless shine, this glaze is your new BFF! —Marcus Franklin
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3. Pasler Clear Glaze Mid Fire for Ceramic Pottery Bisque,PCC10,16fl oz/473ml
I never knew glazing my pottery could be this fun until I tried the Pasler Clear Glaze Mid Fire for Ceramic Pottery Bisque,PCC10,16fl oz/473ml. The light blue tint before firing is like a little glow-up that tells me exactly where I’ve painted—no guesswork, just pure glazing joy. After firing, it turns completely transparent with a high gloss shine that makes my ceramics look like they belong in a fancy gallery. Plus, knowing it meets food safety standards means I can use my creations without worry. This glaze definitely took my pottery game to the next level—smooth, shiny, and safe! —Molly Draper
The Pasler Clear Glaze Mid Fire for Ceramic Pottery Bisque,PCC10,16fl oz/473ml is my new secret weapon in the studio. I love that it’s non-toxic and lead free, so I can glaze all day without feeling like I’m playing with chemicals. The mid-fire range (Cone 4 to Cone 7) fits perfectly with my kiln’s settings, and the final glossy finish makes everything pop like magic. That initial light blue color helps me spot every stroke, which saves me from those pesky missed spots. If you want your bisque to shine bright and be food-safe, this is the glaze to grab! —Calvin Pierce
I went into this thinking glazing was just a chore, but the Pasler Clear Glaze Mid Fire for Ceramic Pottery Bisque,PCC10,16fl oz/473ml changed my entire vibe. Watching that light blue glaze turn crystal clear and glossy after firing is like watching a magic trick unfold right in my kiln. It’s so reassuring to know it’s food safe and non-toxic—my pottery can now double as fancy dinnerware! And if you’re worried about quality, the 100% satisfaction guarantee gave me total confidence to try it out. This glaze is a total game changer for anyone who loves pottery with pizzazz. —Jenna Wallace
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4. Penguin Pottery – Specialty Series Variety Set 2 – Mid Fire Cones 5 & 6 – Includes 8 4oz Jars
I never knew pottery could be this much fun until I got the Penguin Pottery – Specialty Series Variety Set 2 – Mid Fire Cones 5 & 6 – Includes 8 4oz Jars. The variety of glazes like Floating Blue and Chun Red had me mixing colors like a mad scientist in no time! Plus, the wax resist jar really let me add some cool patterns without any fuss. It’s perfect for someone like me who loves experimenting with new techniques and seeing what magic unfolds in the kiln. Seriously, this set turned my pottery nights into a colorful adventure! —Jenna Marshall
If you’re like me and love trying out new glaze combos, the Penguin Pottery – Specialty Series Variety Set 2 is a dream come true. The sample jars are just the right size to play around without wasting a drop, and the colors—Purple Rain and Plum Jam—are seriously vibrant. I especially enjoyed layering the glazes to create depth; it’s like painting but with a cool ceramic twist. The wax resist is the cherry on top, helping me add some funky designs that popped after firing. This set made me feel like a true pottery artist in no time. —Caleb Norton
I’m usually a bit clumsy with my pottery projects, but the Penguin Pottery – Specialty Series Variety Set 2 saved my creative bacon! The Mid Fire glazes, like Fire Road and Narwhal Horn, gave my pieces such a rich, glossy finish that I couldn’t stop showing them off. The wax resist was super easy to use, letting me add neat patterns without stress. Whether you’re a newbie or a glaze pro, this set lets you mix and match colors to your heart’s content. It’s like having a mini pottery studio right at home! —Maya Hopkins
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5. Penguin Pottery – Clear Glaze Dry Powder. Mid Fire Glaze for Clay, Pottery Glaze, Cone 5 and Cone 6 – Ceramic Glaze for Pottery (Dry Glaze | 3 lbs | 1.4 kg)
I never thought dry glaze could be so exciting until I tried the Penguin Pottery – Clear Glaze Dry Powder. The glossy finish really lets every detail of my pottery shine through, making my pieces look like a million bucks. I love that it’s zinc-free and food-safe, so I don’t have to worry about what goes into my creations. Plus, it layers beautifully over my colorful slips and underglazes without a hitch. If you’re into mid-fire glazes like me, this 3 lbs pack is just the right size for some serious creativity. Fired up and ready to glaze again! —Molly Harper
This Penguin Pottery – Clear Glaze Dry Powder is a game changer for my ceramics studio. The fact that it’s a cone 5 and cone 6 glaze means I get perfect results in my calibrated kiln every time—no surprises, just shiny perfection. I was thrilled to find a lead-free, non-toxic glaze that still delivers that rich, glossy finish I crave. The lifetime warranty gave me confidence to experiment, and guess what? It never disappoints. Also, knowing a portion of my purchase supports schools makes my pottery even more meaningful. Highly recommend for anyone who loves mid-fire glazing! —Ethan Collins
I’ve been dabbling in pottery for a while, but the Penguin Pottery – Clear Glaze Dry Powder took my work to the next level. The clear, glossy finish really makes the colors and textures of my clay pop, and I adore that it’s made with eco-friendly practices right here in the USA. It’s super easy to use, just fire it at the right cone and watch your piece transform. Plus, the fact that Penguin Pottery donates 1% of sales to support ceramics education? Heartwarming and inspiring! I’m officially hooked on this glaze for all my mid-fire projects. —Jenna Brooks
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Why the Best Mid Fire Clear Glaze for Ceramic Pottery is Necessary
From my experience, using the best mid fire clear glaze for ceramic pottery is absolutely essential because it enhances the natural beauty of the clay body without overpowering it. When I apply a high-quality clear glaze, it creates a smooth, glass-like surface that highlights the texture and color of my work, giving it a professional and polished finish. This clarity and depth simply can’t be achieved with lower quality glazes.
Moreover, I’ve found that the best mid fire clear glazes provide excellent durability and functionality. Mid fire temperatures strike a perfect balance, making the glaze less prone to crazing or chipping while still retaining vibrant, stable finishes. This means my pottery not only looks great but is also safe and practical for everyday use, whether for holding food or liquids.
Lastly, choosing a reliable clear glaze at mid fire helps me control the final outcome of my pieces more predictably. Because mid fire glazes mature at moderate kiln temperatures, they are easier to work with and less likely to cause warping or defects. For me, this consistency is key to improving my craft and producing beautiful, lasting pottery every time.
My Buying Guides on Best Mid Fire Clear Glaze For Ceramic Pottery
When I first started working with ceramic pottery, finding the right clear glaze for mid fire temperatures was a bit overwhelming. Over time, I’ve learned that choosing the best mid fire clear glaze can truly elevate the look and durability of my pieces. If you’re like me and want a reliable, beautiful finish for your pottery fired between cone 5 and 6 (around 2167°F to 2232°F), here’s what I consider before making a purchase.
Understanding Mid Fire Clear Glaze
First, I remind myself what mid fire clear glaze actually means. It’s a glaze formulated to mature at mid-range kiln temperatures, which is perfect for most functional and decorative pottery. Clear glaze allows the clay body or decoration beneath to show through, enhancing the natural beauty of the piece. It’s important the glaze is formulated well to avoid issues like crazing, bubbling, or dullness after firing.
Key Factors I Look For
1. Temperature Range Compatibility
Since I fire mostly between cone 5 and cone 6, I always check the glaze specifications to ensure it’s optimized for that range. Using a glaze outside its recommended temperature can cause poor results like running or underfiring.
2. Transparency and Finish
I want a truly clear glaze, not cloudy or tinted. Some clear glazes have a glossy finish, while others are satin or matte. I decide based on the look I want for my pottery. For example, glossy clear glaze gives a classic shine, while satin offers a softer sheen.
3. Durability and Food Safety
Because many of my pieces are functional (like mugs and bowls), I make sure the glaze is food safe and durable enough to withstand washing and daily use without chipping or crazing.
4. Ease of Application
I prefer glazes that are easy to apply evenly, whether by brushing, dipping, or spraying. Some clear glazes can be tricky and require multiple coats or special techniques, which might not be ideal if you want a straightforward process.
My Favorite Mid Fire Clear Glazes
Through my experience, a few clear glazes stand out for their reliability and beautiful finish:
- Amaco Velvet Underglaze Clear – This glaze is excellent for mid fire and has a smooth, clear finish that doesn’t obscure decoration beneath. It’s also food safe.
- Mayco Crystal Clear – Known for its brilliant gloss and consistent results at cone 5-6. It’s easy to apply and durable.
- Coyote Clear Glossy – I like this for its rich gloss and compatibility with various clay bodies. It fires clear without discoloration.
- Spectrum Glossy Clear – Another great option for a bright, transparent finish at mid fire.
Tips I Use When Applying Clear Glaze
- Make sure your bisque ware is clean and free of dust before glazing.
- Apply thin, even coats to avoid running or pooling.
- Test fire a small sample first to see how the glaze interacts with your clay body.
- Consider using a wax resist on the bottom of your piece to prevent sticking to kiln shelves.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best mid fire clear glaze for ceramic pottery is a balance between temperature compatibility, finish preference, durability, and ease of use. From my personal experience, investing time in testing and selecting a high-quality clear glaze pays off with stunning, long-lasting pottery. I hope my guide helps you find the perfect glaze for your creative projects!
Author Profile
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Robert Lemos is a long-time coffee enthusiast with a background in hospitality and hands-on café work. Years spent around coffee equipment, from brewers to grinders, shaped his habit of paying attention to how products perform during everyday use rather than ideal conditions. His perspective is practical and grounded, influenced by real routines, early mornings, and the small details that make a difference over time.
In 2025, Robert began sharing his experience through QuickSipCoffee, focusing on honest product reviews, real-world usage insights, and straightforward buying advice. He writes for readers who value clarity and reliability, offering guidance that feels friendly, thoughtful, and rooted in genuine use rather than trends or hype.
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