Fleck

The Problem

Glazing is one of the most unpredictable stages of ceramics.
Even experienced potters struggle to know whether a glaze is actually mixed—leading to failed pieces, hesitation to experiment, and inconsistent results.

As one studio owner put it:

“It’s not a visual mix, only a molecular mix.” 

Studio Owner, Providence RI

Potters needed a way to confirm glaze readiness without disrupting the traditions or rhythms of the studio.

The Opportunity

Design a tool that:

• Fits seamlessly into existing studio workflows

• Preserves creativity and experimentation

• Makes one key variable—mixing consistency—reliable

Rather than introducing screens or complex interfaces, we focused on subtle, physical feedback that felt familiar and trustworthy in a ceramics studio. 

The Solution

Fleck is a handheld glaze-mixing stick that uses a turbidity sensor to detect particle-level mixing and communicates readiness through a simple LED indicator.

• Looks and feels like a traditional studio tool

• Confirms mixing based on stabilized particle suspension, not appearance

• Designed to be left in a glaze bucket without damaging electronics

By making mixing reliable, Fleck gives potters more confidence to experiment.

How Fleck Works

1. Mixing — Bristles agitate glaze inside the bucket

2. Sensing — A turbidity sensor reads particle suspension through a waterproof shaft

   
   

   

   
   

3. Logic — The system detects stabilized low turbidity rather than fixed thresholds

4. Feedback — LED blinks while mixing, then holds solid once fully mixed

Design & Iteration Highlights

Form & Ergonomics

• Compact, under-14" form fits standard 5-gallon buckets

• Foam and 3D-printed handle studies refined grip and balance

Internal cavity adjusted to house electronics while maintaining comfortable weight