What temperature can YMCK Ceramic Stains be fired to?
The YMCK stain range is designed for approximately 1180°C–1300°C, depending on the colour and application.
Results can vary considerably depending on the base material, percentage used, firing atmosphere and temperature.
Testing is strongly recommended.
Do I need to sieve stains?
Yes — and we recommend it.
Sieve glaze mixtures containing stains through a 120 to 200 mesh screen to break up agglomerates and prevent unwanted color specking. Sieve clay slips through an 80 to 120 mesh screen
Why are ceramic stains considered more stable than raw colourants, and do I still need to wear a mask?
Ceramic stains are generally more stable, consistent and predictable than raw colourants such as copper or iron oxides. Many stains are manufactured by incorporating colour-producing elements into a stable crystalline structure, such as zirconium silicate, which can significantly reduce their mobility and bioavailability compared with the elements in a more readily available form.
However, ceramic stains are still supplied as fine dry powders, and the primary risk during normal studio handling is inhalation of airborne dust. Always avoid creating or breathing dust when measuring, mixing or handling stains. Wear suitable respiratory protection, work in a well-ventilated area, and use wet-cleaning methods rather than dry sweeping.
Once mixed into a liquid medium, the risk of airborne dust is significantly reduced, but good ceramic studio hygiene should still be followed.
How much stain should I add?
The ideal amount depends on the desired colour intensity, base material and firing conditions. As a general starting guide:
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Translucent Tints / Washes: 1–4%
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Standard Glaze Colours: 4–8%
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Deep, Saturated Colours: 8–12%. Increasing the stain beyond approximately 10–12% may produce diminishing colour returns and, in some glaze systems, can affect the fired surface.
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Clay Bodies / Slips: 5–15%, with around 8% being a good starting point for many applications. For example, 10 kg of dry clay × 8% = 800 g of stain.
Percentages are calculated based on the dry weight of the glaze, slip, clay body or other ceramic medium.
Different stains can vary in colour strength, so we recommend starting with a lower percentage and making test tiles before increasing the amount.