Clay Hamon question

[Brad Walker]

Hello Everyone! So, I attempted to make a hamon using refractory cement. It took, but only partially. The top part seemed to work well. I drew lines moving toward the edge but they didn't show up. Any suggestions on how to accomplish this? I used a popsicle stick and a skewer to draw the pattern out; let it sit overnight until it was hardened; then put it in the kiln.

 

[J. Doyle]

What steel?

Very rarely will the clay print the hamon pattern exactly. Rather, the clay influences the hamon.

There are a host of variables and very, VERY few have it down predictably.

 

[Brad Walker]

It's 1084. I'm glad I'm not the only one!

 

[J. Doyle]

It's 1084. I'm glad I'm not the only one!

You might not get that kind of precise, fine activity with 1084.

 

[Brad Walker]

That seems to be what I've heard. As I understand it, 1075 works better. I am flush with 1084 so I'll have to make the best of what I've got!!