Glaze vs. Luster vs. Acrylic: Choosing the Right Finish

You have three main ways to finish a ceramic piece: glaze, luster, and acrylic paint. They behave very differently, and choosing the right one depends on your project, your equipment, and how the piece will be used. For a deeper look at two of them, see acrylic vs. glaze.

Glaze

What it is: A glass-forming coating that melts onto the piece in the kiln.

Best for: Dishes, mugs, and anything that needs a durable, glossy, washable surface.

Needs: A kiln and a glaze firing to the cone on the label (see firing glazed ceramics).

Pros: Very durable, glossy or matte finishes, and many products are rated food safe when used as directed.

Cons: Colors change in the kiln, so testing matters, and you need kiln access.

Browse glazes and clear glazes.

Luster

What it is: A thin metallic or pearly finish, such as gold, silver, or mother-of-pearl, applied over glaze.

Best for: Accents, rims, borders, and decorative details on already glazed and fired pieces.

Needs: A glazed, fired surface and a third firing at a very low temperature (see how to use luster).

Pros: Adds a shimmer glaze can't match.

Cons: Usually used as an accent, and luster areas are generally not recommended for surfaces that touch food or the mouth, such as inside a cup or on a rim. Check the product label.

Browse lusters.

Acrylic paint

What it is: Water-based craft paint applied to bisque or fired pieces.

Best for: Decorative pieces, kids' projects, and painting without a kiln.

Needs: No kiln. Acrylic doesn't need firing.

Pros: Easy, fast, huge range of colors, and no firing cost.

Cons: Not as durable as fired glaze and not intended for food or drink. A sealer can add protection for decorative items.

Browse acrylics.

Quick comparison

• Need food-safe, durable dishes? Glaze, labeled for food use.
• No kiln? Acrylic.
• Want metallic shine on glazed work? Add luster after the glaze firing.
• Making decor or gifts? Any of the three, depending on the look and equipment.

Can you combine them?

Yes. A common approach is to glaze and fire a piece, add luster accents and fire again, and use acrylics only on separate decorative pieces. Don't put acrylic under glaze, since acrylic burns away in the kiln.