What do I need for enameling?
Table of Contents
Enameling Metal Jewelry
- Copper sheet (20 gauge is ideal for enameling, but don’t go any thinner than 22 gauge, the enamel will warp the metal itself!) 6×6″ Sheet.
- 20 or 22 Gauge Silver Wire– I like to use Argentium Silver wire and Rio sells them in customized segments.
What is enameling on metal?

Enameling is the process of applying a thin coat of finely. ground glass to a metal. When heated to a high tempera- ture, the glass melts and fuses to the metal. Enameling is a vehicle for both a creative and technical art experience.
Do I need a kiln for enameling?
If you plan to do enameling, a front loading kiln is a better choice since enameled pieces need to be removed from the kiln while they are very hot.
How is enameling done?
Enameling is a process by which powdered glass is fused to a metal substrate at high heat. Enamels can be applied to glass, ceramics, and most commonly, metals. The application of enamels can add color to metals such as copper, silver, and gold. The powdered glass can be applied either wet or dry to a surface.

What is Jewellery enameling?
Enameling is the ancient art of melting powdered glass onto metal. This can be done on flat pieces of metal or three dimensional pieces of art, such as vases. Heat is applied with a high temperature torch or a kiln.
What is enameling made of?
Enamel is a material produced by fusing powdered glass to a substrate. It is fired with additive pigments. Covering steel elements with enamel protects the base material from rust, gives the ware a pleasing aesthetic, and guarantees health and safety when enamelware is used in the kitchen.
How hot does an enameling kiln get?
1500 degrees Fahrenheit
Enamels are fired onto the metal with the heat of a torch or kiln. When using a kiln for enameling, the target temperature is in the area of 1500 degrees Fahrenheit.
Do you need a kiln for silver clay?
Metal Clay Firing Kits Fine silver clays can be fired with a small butane torch, an enameling kiln, a tabletop jewelry kiln, or a gas burner. Other metal clay types, such as bronze and silver alloy clays, require a carbon firing. Copper clay is the exception. Copper clay can be torch or kiln fired.
What is torch enameling?
Enamelling is the technique of coating a metal surface with enamel. The enamel is a layer of melted glass that, once heated, will fuse to the metal surface, leaving you with a professional finish in a colour and effect of your choice.
Is enameled steel safe?
Enamel coating prevents chemicals from the metal core to leach into your meals and reacting with acidic ingredients in foods. It also doesn’t hold flavors or alter the taste of your food. As long as the coating remains in good condition, the cooking surface is completely safe for cooking, marinating, and serving foods.
What type of glass do you use for enamels?
90 to 96 COE (linear) glass (Bullseye and Spectrum) may be used with our 7000 (opaques) and 8000 (transparents) series enamels as well as the Glass Painting Powders products. 104 COE (linear) glass (Effetre/Morreti) may be used with our 9000 series enamels.
What are the safety guidelines for the use of enamels?
Rule 1. Keep products out of reach of children and pets. Rule 2. Keep your work area neat and clean. Keep your clothing clean. Rule 3. Use your enamels in a well ventilated work area. Wear a protective dust mask if you are working with enamel powders for an extended period of time, especially when sifting enamels. Rule 4.
Why does enamel crack on glass?
When enamel cracks it is because there is too much stress in the glass and the glass has no choice but to relieve that stress by cracking. This can happen with any enamel under certain conditions.
How do you kiln enamel on glass?
After applying the enamel to a glass piece, the work is placed onto a kiln shelf or on kiln paper or ceramic or coated metal mold for slumping. It is placed into the kiln at room temperature. A firing schedule appropriate for the size and thickness of the glass should be consulted.