Sintering is a finishing technique in which a thin layer of natural material (such as manganese or iron oxide) is applied to the facing brick before firing. During the firing process, these additives partially melt and cause irregular glazing on the surface of the brick, often visible as dark, scorched, or glossy areas. This unique appearance is deliberately created and is typical of sintered hand-moulded bricks.
What are the effects of sintering?
- Darker, more nuanced appearance with characterful colour variations
- Slightly fused bricks in the packaging — this is normal and inherent to the product
- Small clay flakes may come loose when separating the bricks
Bricks can easily be separated by gently tapping them. If a clay flake comes off on a face you don’t want to use as the visible side, simply turn the brick and lay it with the other side facing out.
For this type of brick, there are specific processing directions. Consult them here.
