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Why are my plates cracking?

March 12, 2026 · 37 min

Show notes

Unloading a kiln can be an emotional rollercoaster, especially if it's filled with a new ceramic form that gives you trouble. Today the gang answer a listener question about how to keep plates from cracking, the best temperature for firing terracotta, and if there is a vegan alternative for shellac.

Do you have questions or need advice on glazes? Drop us a line at [email protected] and you could be featured on an upcoming show. Are you coming to NCECA? Look for Matt and Rose at the Ceramic Materials Workshop booth and Kathy at the Harvard Ceramic booth in the expo hall. Hope to see you there.

Have you checked out the new For Flux Sake Patreon? This is a great way to show your support and have access to discounted merch, live hangouts, and extra episodes. Head over to Patreon and sign up today.

Today's episode is brought to you by Monkey Stuff, The Rosenfield Collection, Cornell Studio Supply, and Ceramic Materials Workshop's Making Glaze Make Sense.

This week's episode features the following topics:

Compression, particle packing, terracotta, low fire, shellac

All episodes of For Flux Sake

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