Exploring Crystalline Glazes

Prepare to be dazzled by this contemporary guide to the art of crystalline glazing.

Crystalline glazes are known for producing exciting works reminiscent of floating galaxies, frosty windows, rare gemstones and delicate flowers. Until recently, however, few potters worked with this elusive medium. Now, with new advancements in materials and digital processors, the method has become simplified and amazing results can be achieved without the problems usually associated with these glazes, such as excessive glaze run-off and unpredictable crystal growth.

In this book, Diane Creber explores the history of this process, beginning with the most suitable clays, the different types of crystalline glazes, how they can be grown under controlled conditions, and how different ingredients react with each other. Through a survey of several well-known crystalline glaze potters, she reveals their secrets and shows examples of their unique work.

From clay and glaze recipes to an in-depth look at firing aids and types of kilns, Exploring Crystalline Glazes has everything a potter needs to make their own glazes and create their own stunning works of art.

Author: Diane Creber
Publisher: Herbert Press
Published: 07/14/2026
Pages: 192
Binding Type: Paperback
Weight: 1.30lbs
Size: 9.60h x 7.40w x 0.50d
ISBN: 9781789943931

About the Author
Diane Creber's award-winning pottery has been displayed internationally and at galleries throughout Canada, where she is based. Creber operated Wilton Pottery for 45 years, making one-of-a-kind and functional ceramics. Once she discovered crystalline glazes, there was no turning back. At the time, there was little to no written information on this process, so she contacted over a hundred potters working in this medium. The material became Crystalline Glazes, the first book written on the process, first published by A&C Black Visual Arts in 1997 and later with University of Pennsylvania Press in 2005. The book is now available from Herbert Press where it remains part of the Ceramics Handbook series.