HORSEHAIR GLAZE

Horsehair is another very old technique of finishing pottery. It was developed by Native American Indians, used in a ceremony to memorialize their favorite horses. In this technique, pots are fired to 1100 degrees. Then the lid of the kiln is lifted and hair from the horse’s mane and tail are drizzled on to the pots.  The hair immediately infuses to the pots creating unique design.  The pots are then given a glossy clear coat and waxed.  The result is a decorative designed pot with a glass like finish.  I only use English porcelain to throw my horsehair pots as the contrast between the bright white clay and black markings is truly striking. This is one of my most popular finish and not easy to find elsewhere.