Glaze Needed
1 fl oz
Containers
1
Surface Area
54 sq in
Glaze Needed: 1 fl oz
40 ml / 0.08 pints
1
pint
54
sq in
40
Inputs
Result
Surface area per mug = pi x 3.5 x 4 + pi x 1.75^2 = 43.98 + 9.62 = 53.6 sq in. Total area = 53.6 x 12 x 2 coats = 1,286.4 sq in. Glaze needed = 1,286.4 / 80 (dipping rate) = 16.08 fl oz.
Inputs
Result
Bowl uses hemisphere formula: surface = 2 x pi x 5^2 x 2 = 314.16 sq in (interior + exterior). Total with 3 coats = 314.16 x 3 = 942.48 sq in. Brushing coverage = 942.48 / 60 = 15.71 fl oz.
Inputs
Result
Plate area = 2 x pi x 5^2 + pi x 10 x 1 = 157.08 + 31.42 = 188.5 sq in. Total = 188.5 x 8 x 2 coats = 3,016 sq in. Spraying coverage = 3,016 / 100 = 30.16 fl oz. Dry powder = 30.16 x 1.5 = 45.24 oz.
Inputs
Result
Vase area = pi x 4 x 8 + pi x 2^2 = 100.53 + 12.57 = 113.1 sq in. Total = 113.1 x 6 x 2 coats = 1,357.2 sq in. Brushing coverage = 1,357.2 / 60 = 22.62 fl oz. Dry powder = 22.62 x 1.5 = 33.93 oz.
Glaze amounts vary by piece type, size, and application method. A standard mug needs about 1.34 fl oz per coat when dipping, a bowl needs about 4.71 fl oz, and a dinner plate needs about 2.36 fl oz. Multiply by the number of coats for total glaze needed.
| Piece Type | Dimensions | Dipping (per coat) | Brushing (per coat) | Spraying (per coat) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mug | 4" x 3.5" | 0.67 fl oz | 0.89 fl oz | 0.54 fl oz |
| Bowl | 3" x 6" | 1.41 fl oz | 1.88 fl oz | 1.13 fl oz |
| Plate | 1" x 10" | 2.36 fl oz | 3.14 fl oz | 1.88 fl oz |
| Vase | 8" x 4" | 1.41 fl oz | 1.89 fl oz | 1.13 fl oz |
Dipping provides even coverage using about 80 sq in per fl oz, but requires enough glaze to submerge pieces. Brushing uses about 60 sq in per fl oz and works well for smaller amounts but may need more coats. Spraying covers about 100 sq in per fl oz but has more overspray waste.
| Method | Coverage Rate | Best For | Drawback |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dipping | 80 sq in/fl oz | Production runs, even coats | Needs large glaze volume |
| Brushing | 60 sq in/fl oz | Small batches, detail work | Brush strokes may show |
| Spraying | 100 sq in/fl oz | Large pieces, gradients | Overspray waste, needs booth |
Most pottery requires 2-3 coats of glaze for optimal coverage and color saturation. One coat may be too thin and result in bare spots, while three coats provide full coverage and rich color. Always follow your glaze manufacturer's recommendations for best results.
Dry glaze powder is typically mixed at a ratio of about 1 pound dry powder to 20 fl oz of liquid glaze. The calculator estimates that 1 fl oz of mixed glaze requires approximately 1.5 oz of dry powder, accounting for water content and mixing consistency.
A standard coffee mug (4" tall, 3.5" diameter) has about 53.6 square inches of surface area. With 2 coats of dipping glaze, you need about 1.34 fl oz per mug. For a set of 12 mugs, prepare about 16 fl oz (1 pint) of glaze.
Always prepare 10-20% more glaze than calculated to account for testing samples, spillage, and uneven surfaces. It's better to have extra glaze that can be stored than to run short mid-project and have to remix more with potentially different consistency.
Properly stored liquid glaze in airtight containers can last several months to years. Dry glaze powder lasts indefinitely when kept dry. Mixed glaze may settle or develop mold, so stir well before use and add a drop of bleach to prevent bacterial growth in long-term storage.
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Last Updated: Feb 13, 2026
This calculator is provided for informational and educational purposes only. Results are estimates and should not be considered professional financial, medical, legal, or other advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making important decisions. UseCalcPro is not responsible for any actions taken based on calculator results.