Mason stains can be used to color either transparent or opaque base glazes and are generally added in amounts of 1% to 10%. Stains used in transparent glazes create a translucent or semi-translucent appearance. An opacifer such as zicopax or tin oxide can be used if an opaque color is desired. The stain and opacifier should equal 15% of the total glaze batch. Tin should be used as an opacifier only with chrome-tin pinks, vanadium yellows, and cobalt blues.

Mason stains can be mixed with water and used as "watercolors" or to achieve a majolica appearance, when applied over a white glaze. For low fire, mix 1 part stain, 1 part gerstley borate, and 1 part frit 3124, then mix with water to desired consistency.