About the product
Sodium silicate can be used in several ceramic applications: (a) it is used to prevent lumping when slip casting; (b) it can be used to create a crackled texture on ceramic surfaces; and (c) it also reduces viscosity and water needs in pottery and ceramics.
Using it as a Deffloculant: Penguin Pottery's Sodium Silicate Solution is used to deflocculate (ie. prevent lumping) casting slips. Our sodium silicate causes the particles of clay to repel one another and remain suspended. Please note that, over time, plaster will absorb the solution and will deteriorate / erode. Using it to Achieve a Crackled Surface: If you want to achieve a super-interesting crackled clay surface, you can apply Penguin Pottery sodium silicate to your piece right after you finish throwing (before you fire it). Just apply with a brush, wait until it dries, and the place your hands inside the piece and expand the sides. This solution is water-soluble and is made with soda and silica. Please note that sodium silicate will be damaged if frozen (eg. shipping during winter months)