Glazed tiles - tiles - were used for decoration, and terracotta (box) tiles were used for better heat retention. Centuries have passed, and the decoration of stoves, fireplaces and even the facades of houses with tiles has not lost its relevance. They give a unique look to the home.
Instructions
Step 1
The manufacturing method of this finishing material has hardly changed over the years. The famous "Dutch" tiles are still made almost by hand and, nevertheless, amazes with their elegance and durability.
The creation of tiles includes the following stages: formation of a plaster model; removing the form, filling it with clay; drying, cleaning; fitting tiles to each other; painting tiles; glazing; burning.
At the first stage, it is important to choose quality raw materials. It should be plastic pottery clay. It is well shaped and hardens like a stone when fired.
Step 2
At the second stage, it is necessary to properly adhere to the terms and conditions of drying the raw material. Put the clay mass into the ready-made molds by hand, leave the filled molds for 3-4 days on racks or frames for natural drying at a temperature of 18-25 °. If it's cool, warm up the room.
Step 3
The third stage is preparation for firing. After drying, clean the edges of the tiles, make holes in the trowels for attaching the tiles to each other. Remove blockages from the surface by wiping with a damp sponge.
Step 4
The fourth stage is primary firing. Spend it in special ovens with controlled heat distribution.
Step 5
The fifth stage is glazing. Apply the glaze in a layer 1-1.5 mm thick by dipping into the glaze solution or pouring it from a container. Water the tile surface without interruption, in one step. Before the second firing, apply a decorative pattern over the enamel.
Step 6
Last stage: secondary firing. Tiles without glaze are loaded into the muffle-free chamber of the batch oven in pairs with the front side. Glazed tiles are fired in the muffle chamber of the lower floor of the furnace. Firing lasts from 48 to 60 hours.
