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AN DROICHEAD

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  Teaching: .......  Current teaching ....... Student Work  ....... Enamel Class ....... Lectures and Workshops....... Travelling Class

Enamel Class

WHAT IS ENAMELLING? COLOUR!

Very simply, enamel is glass that is fused to metal. It is formulated specially to provide a molecular bond with metal when the glass and metal are heated to the same temperature (approximately 1400° F) simultaneously. This is done in a small kiln

My class will provide instruction in enamelling techniques (stencils and underglazes) and an introduction to more advanced techniques (cloisonné). Below are some of the techniques learned in class

SIFTING AND STENCILS

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Enamels can be opaque ( you cannot see the metal surface through them) or transparent (you can)
One of the easiest ways to learn about enamel is to experiment with layers. The enamel glass is ground up to the consistency of salt or sugar and can be applied using sifters.

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Various layers of colour can be differentiated with stencils or sifted freely to create abstract or textural effects. Combining and contrasting opaque and transparent layers cancreate an infinite variety of effects.
The layers can be simple, to create bold graphic effects, or complex to create interesting textures or compositions.
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UNDERGLAZES AND PAINTING

Underglazes and enamel paints are made with enamel that is ground as fine as flour and mixed with oil. This enamel can then be applied with a paintbrush or nib pen. Underglaze is a black enamel that can be applied directly to the surface of the copper, and then covered and fired with a clear, colourless coat of enamel. hex37.jpg
hex40.jpg The underglaze can be applied to the entire surface and then scratched away (sgraffito) or simply brushed on. These paints can also be applied over enamel layers, to emphasize or outline graphic elements created when sifting.

CLOISONNÉ

The word 'cloisonné' comes from the french word 'cloison' meaning 'cell'. Cells are created using wires as the walls of the cells. These walls separate one colour from another, but also allow the artist to build up layers. Transparent colours are typically used for cloisonne to create depth and delicate shading. hex55.jpg
The bent wires are sunk ,very slightly, into a layer of transparent enamel and then subsequent layers are added to create the desired effect. Interesting effects can be created in a couple of layers - or many layers can create a subtle radiance. hex76.jpg


REGULAR ENAMELLING CLASSES NOW OFFERED AT 
GEORGE BROWN COLLEGE 
CASA LOMA CAMPUS

ENAMELING I: Develop the basic skills and techniques used to apply and melt powdered glass onto metal. Learn stencilling, dry dusting, sgraffito, under-glaze black, over-glaze black, graphite and cloisonné. Complete three pieces using demonstrated techniques as well as one cloisonné piece using your own
For more information and to register, click  Here

ENAMELING II:  Move beyond the basic skills and techniques. Learn champlevé, complex cloisonné, basse-taille, the use of foils, hand finishing and kiln soldering. Complete samples using your own designs.
For more information and to register, click  Here

I also teach summer workshop classes at these locations

Augusta Heritage Centre, Elkins, West Virginia

Catskills Irish Arts Week, East Durham, New York

IF YOU WOULD LIKE A CLASS IN YOUR AREA - FIND 6 OTHER STUDENTS AND I WILL BRING THE CLASS TO YOU!

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all text and photographs © 2001 - 2008,
Catherine Crowe