Sgraffito is an Italian word that means to scratch. It is a decorating technique produced by applying layers of color or colors to leather hard clay and then scratching off parts to show the contrasting clay underneath. Underglaze or slip can be used for this technique. Drawings can be very delicate and have an expressive quality where the drawing takes all of the attention. Sometimes the best forms for this technique are very simple plates or vessels. It can also be used on sculptural forms.
Basic Technique - slip or underglaze can be used interchangeably but not mixed.
Tools and Materials Tools: Wire stylus or loop tools or mini ribbon sculpturing tools (Kemper Tools is a good source). Use rubber shapers or wooden tools to clean fine lines from debris. When complete, clean thoroughly with a dry brush. Clay: Make sure the clay item is leather hard and not too dry but hard enough to hold shape when pressure is applied.
Apply 2-3 coats of underglaze or 1-2 coats of slip, apply additional coats in alternate directions, and wait to dry before starting the scratching-off process. The tools and the pressure you decide to use is dependent on the affect you wish to see on the clay. If looking for rougher surface texture, push the tool a bit harder and take more material using more pointy tools. Scratches can have uniform or random patterns. NOTE: Only use a soft dry brush to remove debris to avoid damaging the colored areas.
Note: After your design is bisque fired, you'll have another opportunity to touch-up with underglaze before applying clear glaze and glaze firing.
Apply clear matte or glossy glaze is applied to the bisque fired piece and fired again.