Meet the Artist
Nancy Sowder
The Speedball Mid-Fire Glaze line is the result of a brilliant collaboration with Richmond-based ceramic artist, Nancy Sowder. With a background in sculpture and a lifelong passion for design and color, Nancy brought her artistic eye to the lab to develop a suite of glazes that truly bridge the gap between functional pottery and high-end art. Her expertise allowed us to create an array of nature-inspired colors that yield gorgeous mottling effects and a sophisticated, reduction-like look—all while being fired in a standard oxidation kiln at Cone 5-6.
Nancy’s transition from sculpture to functional pieces is beautifully evident in every jar of Mid-Fire glaze. By focusing on how color and form interact, she helped us refine a line that offers spectacular depth and movement for artists of all levels. Today, Nancy continues to create and inspire from her studio in Virginia, ensuring that Speedball Ceramics remains the ultimate combination of professional performance and accessible beauty.
Mid-Fire Glaze FAQs
Created in collaboration with ceramic artist Nancy Sowder, Mid-Fire Glaze is available in an array of nature-inspired colors that yield gorgeous mottling effects and a reduction-like look when fired at Cone 5-6 in an oxidation kiln. No matter your skill level, you’ll find it easy to achieve dazzling results with a single glaze—or layer multiple colors for nuanced depth and variegated textures. These glazes provide a durable finish for dinnerware and other pieces intended for everyday use. Available in (36) colors and 3 Fluxes in 16oz (473ml) jars. Lead-free and dinnerware-safe when used and fired as recommended.
What is the shelf life of Speedball glazes?
What firing process can I use to get the best results with Speedball Mid-Fire glazes?
Can Speedball Mid-Fire glazes be high fired to cone 10?
Yes, however the finished appearance of many of the glazes may change at higher temperatures. We recommend doing test tiles and your own dinnerware safety testing prior to use on any finished pieces.