How to Prep Bisque Before You Paint or Glaze

Bisqueware is ready to decorate right out of the box, but a few minutes of prep makes a big difference in how smooth and even your paint or glaze looks. Here's the simple routine.

1. Inspect the piece

Look over your bisque for hairline cracks, chips, or rough spots. Small flaws can show up more after glazing. Set aside any damaged pieces and report them to us promptly if they arrived that way (see our FAQ for the damage process).

2. Remove dust

Bisque is porous and holds dust. Wipe it all over with a clean, barely damp sponge. Wring the sponge well, since too much water fills the pores and makes glaze go on thin. Let the piece sit for a few minutes before decorating. Our sponges work well for this.

3. Smooth rough spots

If you find a bump or sharp edge, gently smooth it with a damp sponge or fine sandpaper. Bisque dust can be harmful to breathe, so wet-sand when possible and wear a mask.

4. Handle with clean hands

Oils from your skin can resist glaze and cause patchy spots. Handle bisque by the edges and the bottom, and wash your hands first.

5. Plan your design

Lightly sketch your design with a regular pencil. Pencil lines burn away in the kiln when you glaze and fire, so they won't show in the finished piece. If you're painting with acrylics, the lines will remain unless you cover them.

6. Choose your finish

Decide whether you'll use glaze, acrylic, or both on separate pieces. If you'll fire the piece, don't use acrylic on it, since acrylic burns off. See glaze vs. luster vs. acrylic to decide.

7. Set up your workspace

Gather your brushes (see our brush guide), glazes or paints, a water container, and a damp sponge. Cover your table and keep everything within reach.

Ready to start? Browse our bisqueware and pick a piece.