| Properly applied and fired, decals add rich colour textures,
exquisite designs and special personal significance for the ornamentation of ceramic,
glass and other smooth surface materials such as tableware, giftware, candles, ceramic
tiles, e.t.c.
To achieve the best professional results it is important to pay special
attention to the selection & quality, application & firing of the decals.
1. Selection & Quality
Decals are available in almost unlimited patterns, colours, sizes and
shapes.
- Choose carefully the design and size of your decals to
match the piece you wish to decorate. The proper choice of colours and patterns will
immensely enhance the aesthetic quality of an otherwise plain piece.
- The finest decals are European made - Johnson Matthey,
Mulder Holland, e.t.c. Always request a brand name and best quality. Avoid cheap,
unauthorized imitations.
2. Application
- Let the decal soak in water and slowly remove it from its
paper surface.
- Carefully apply the decals on the ceramic or glassware and
ensure that there is good contact with the surface.
- Use a rubber squeegee to remove wrinkles and bubbles, and
smoothe away the surface- Avoid tearing the decal.
3. Firing
Decals are
generally fired like any other piece of ceramic ware.
- Decals have a low firing range - cone 022 to 016
- Ensure that there is proper venting to get true colour
result and proper heatwork to avoid faded colours, dullness and colour shifts.
Decals should not be fired when applied to flammable
material such as wax candles, wood, vinyl etc. Instead,a spray sealer may be used to hold
the decal in place. |