Using a torch, various methods of line creation and imagery within your enamel piece will be demonstrated. By applying successive layers of liquid, acrylic, as well as transparent and opaque powdered enamels, techniques such as Sgraffito, graphite, sifting, fire scale, acid-etching, painting and more, depending on length of class, will be covered. Additionally, under/maturity & over-firing are utilized to build and preserve drawings and layers in the final enameled pieces.
Students will have ample time to play and explore these exciting enameling techniques!! Typically, students will be able to finish several enameled pieces during the class.
No matter the student's skill level, there will be an opportunity to immerse oneself in new ideas, enameling techniques and principles.
Cold connections and minimal soldering skill setting options for your piece(s) will be presented. Students will have time for Q & A during the setting presentation.
Note: Two enameling kilns will be available for anyone who would like to use them to fire their pieces.
WHAT WILL BE TAUGHT (INCLUDING SKILLS COVERED):
Torch safety and how to use an acetylene/air torch
Tip sizes 1, 2, and 3 and when each is applicable
Ways of containing the heat so the enamels will flow more easily and quickly (small pieces will flow using various methods)
Preparation of metal for enameling
Deciding which gauge of metal is best for each situation
Metal-forming to create more stable pieces
Use of necessary small tools for creation of the pieces such as forming hammers, jeweler’s saw, files, sandpaper or wheels (if available), scratching tools, and other tools, should they become necessary
Use of liquid, powdered, and other enamels and which is best suited for each application
Different approaches to firing based on the size of the piece
Under-firing (sugar firing and orange peel), maturity firing, and over-firing, and how to recognize when each is occurring
If interested in jewelry, various setting options will be explained, and students will have the opportunity to examine many of the enamel settings Anne has created.
THE OBJECTIVES/INTENDED OUTCOMES:
Enable new students of enameling to continue to torch-fire at home after the class
Present (those who are already enameling) new information about torch-firing and/or enameling techniques that they may not have in their skill sets
Inspire more people to pursue the art of enameling, generate enthusiasm, and increase the dialogue around the art-form, even if they choose to use their skills with a kiln.
Completed enamel piece(s) that the student can take away with him/her.
Demonstrate to the students that, while torch-firing is not necessarily hard, it is a more time-consuming process than kiln firing, and the exciting differences between the two methods of firing. (Students do have the option of kiln firing in class).
Help each student with their vision, should they have one.
Learn from each other. Everyone has something to teach.
We are only using unleaded enamels in this workshop.