Adding Enamel to copper is an ancient and exciting process.
I hand cut a shape and then add texture - either with a rolling mill or hand stamping a design. The enamel powder is then sprinkled onto the metal and fired in my kiln to around 800* Centigrade. Several layers of colour are added to build up the design, each coloured layer is fired separately with some pieces going into the kiln 8 times or more.
I use several different techniques, and sometimes my experiments create an unexpected result. One of the joys of enamelling is that you can never quite predict how the colours will react with each other in the kiln.
All of the jewellery on this page is a one of a kind piece. Have a look at my Etsy shop for similar items or contact me if you have your own idea.
Fine Silver is the purist form of Silver, it is used to make Silver Bullion ingots. Its purity makes it perfect for enamelling.
To make my Enamelled Silver range of Jewellery I place vintage lace on top of the silver sheet then roll it through my rolling mill. This simple technique creates a beautiful effect.
Shapes are cut and filed by hand. I then fire two layers of coloured Translucent Vitreous Enamel on top of the texture, to let the textured silver shine through.
There are several pieces of enamelled silver jewellery available in my Etsy shop.
Thoroughly enjoyed our enamelling workshop the other day It was great to learn a new skill in such a relaxed and friendly environment from a lovely lady with a great sense of humour .
I have enjoyed all aspects of needle-crafts since childhood but never done anything like this before; Chris really made me feel I could have a go and i was very pleased with the things i made ,
Linda
On arrival all the equipment we would need was arranged like a banquet of craft and sure enough it was. As I had never done it before I did think of looking at a YouTube video, but I am glad I went in fresh as it were.
Chris explained all the equipment and techniques we could use and the different ways we could use them. Demonstrated and guided us through the process, it was tremendous, we were experimenting without fear of failure and made a few happy mistakes.
As I familiarised myself with the different ways of doing things and being surprised by how things turned out on each layer I applied. It made me feel so creative.
I was exceptionally pleased with what I had made. It was a fabulous and enjoyable day with a first rate tutor. Looking forward to my next session.
Margaret
