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Oxides
Reliable, high-quality ceramic oxides for colouring, staining and glazing applications. Oxides are the raw pigments from which colours and ceramic stains are compounded, with these versatile colouring materials able to be painted directly onto clay, bisque or unfired glaze using the majolica technique, or blended into bodies and glazes to achieve a broad spectrum of effects. Discover a variety of metal oxides and more in our selection below.
Ceramic Oxides in Use
Oxides are a cornerstone of ceramic colouring. Explore metal oxides ranging from iron, copper and cobalt to manganese, nickel and tin - all tested for performance and consistency across firing ranges. Artists use ceramic oxides to create vivid colours, distinctive surface textures and reactive glaze effects. When they are added to glaze or slip, they act as colourants, producing everything from deep cobalt blues to rich iron reds to greens, ochres and titanium whites.
Each oxide behaves differently across a range of kiln firing atmospheres and temperatures, making them essential in creative glazing and glaze experimentation. For example, copper oxide can yield turquoise in oxidation or metallic reds in reduction.
Oxides can be used in brushwork, sgraffito decoration or wash layers, allowing users to highlight textures, accentuate carving or create intricate detailing. They can also be incorporated into various glaze and slip recipes, achieving varying degrees of success.
See our Technical Information Sheet "Safe Handling of Powdered Ceramic Materials"
Ethically Sourced Oxides
Potclays is proud to offer ethically sourced versions of key colouring oxides, including Cobalt Carbonate, Cobalt Oxide and Tin Oxide. These materials provide trusted performance and purity while supporting responsible, sustainable supply practices. Further details are available on each of the products.
Cobalt oxides are highly concentrated colours known for producing rich blues and lavenders. In contrast, tin oxide is one of many popular opacifiers, known for creating smooth, opaque whites and pastel tones in glaze formulations. Each material is carefully graded and batch-tested to ensure reliable results.
Why Choose Potclays?
At Potclays, we've supplied ceramic oxides, clay, glaze and high-quality tools and accessories to the pottery world for generations. Our range combines high performance with durability, ensuring every purchase you make meets our professional quality standards.
Whether you're mixing your own glazes, experimenting with decoration or refining a colour palette, Potclays provides trusted materials and expert advice to help you achieve consistent, beautiful results every time.
Need help? We have decades of technical experience to help you with any questions you may have. Get in touch with us today.
