Burnish a pot to mirror sheen

This is a multi-session commitment. Think of it as polishing stone: layer after layer of compression until the surface approaches a mirror.

Process

1. Session 1: Burnish the entire exterior at early leather hard. Get a base sheen.
2. Let the pot firm slightly (30–60 minutes under loose plastic).
3. Session 2: Burnish again over the entire surface. The sheen deepens.
4. Optional Session 3: For maximum shine, burnish one more time when the clay is quite firm.

Tools

• A smooth river stone or polished spoon works best
• The tool must be harder and smoother than the clay

Success criteria

• Consistent, high-gloss surface across the entire exterior
• No matte patches or missed spots
• The pot almost reflects light like glass

This finish is especially stunning on terra sigillata or terra cotta clays that won't be glazed.