Alabama Rain ☔️

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New Glaze at RCC

General characteristics of Alabama Rain

  • Shiny surface

  • Moderately opaque (hard to see through and would cover underglaze).

  • Somewhat runny. The thicker it is, the more it will run.

  • Thin=golden (on the left) , Thick=cream (on the right)

Here are a few overlaps to study and learn from.

In each pair of glazes below the tile on the right, has Alabama Rain on top (the 2nd layer).
In each of the pairs below the tile on the left has Alabama Rain as the bottom or 1st layer.

Alabama and Shiny Black

Alabama and Tenmoku

Alabama and Sapphire

First, notice how all the tiles have a bump or thickening of glaze at the bottom of the test tile. This means the glaze is running and collecting near the foot. We suggest using Alabama Rain on the top 1/2” of you pot until you understand the glaze. Do not use Alabama Rain near the foot.

Also notice how when Alabama Rain is on top of another glaze is create a rainbow effect. This happens when it is under other glazes, but it is more subdued.

We will be testing this glaze for the session and hopefully it will become well loved!

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Deborah Schwartzkopf

As a studio artist, she makes fabulous tableware that infuses life with purposeful beauty. Deb was inspired by the guidance of amazing mentors along the way. These important relationships fostered her desire to engage and build community through clay. Her adventurous spirit has taken her across the country and beyond to form a depth of experience, knowledge, and a supportive network.

In 2013 Deb established Rat City Studios in her hometown of Seattle, WA. RCS is her home and personal studio, as well as, a creative space for multiple studio members working independently. In 2022 she opened a sister studio, Rain City Clay in West Seattle. RCC is a community art center focusing on experiential learning through ceramics classes of all levels.

With over 15 years of experience, a Master’s of Fine Art at Penn State, artwork included in collections such as the Kamm Teapot Foundation, San Angelo Museum, and the WA State Arts Collection, numerous publications including Ceramic Monthly, Pottery Making Illustrated, and Studio Potter Magazine, she has been recognized and honored in her career as a maker.