When crafting ceramic figures like my circus kitty and ceramic pup, one of the most critical steps I’ve found is bisque firing before applying underglaze. Although it means an extra kiln firing, this step hardens the clay enough to reduce the risk of breakage during decoration. After bisque firing, the piece moves from fragile greenware to something much sturdier yet still porous enough to accept underglaze beautifully. I especially enjoy working with white clay that fires to a creamy tone. This finish gives my ceramic animals a warm, bone-like quality that adds a natural feel to the pieces. For the kitty, I applied three uniform coats of white underglaze before adding vibrant colors in blue, red, and yellow—reminiscent of a classic circus palette. Applying multiple coats helps ensure the colors stay vivid and consistent after firing. Handling the ceramics carefully throughout the process is vital. Since greenware is extremely delicate, I often hold my pieces in unique ways while decorating to avoid accidental damage. This cautious approach pays off, especially with smaller sculptures like my kitty (about 10 cm tall) and the ceramic pups. Adding the finishing touches, such as the kitty’s large black eyes, brings personality and charm to the piece. I love how the oversized dark eyes give the cat an engaging, almost playful expression that complements the circus theme. From my personal experience, taking the extra time to bisque fire first, applying multiple underglaze coats, and working with white clay have all contributed to creating durable, visually striking ceramic figures. These practices ensure that every detail—from color vibrancy to structural integrity—is carefully preserved. For anyone venturing into ceramic painting, I highly recommend these steps for rewarding and long-lasting results.