Playing with Fire: A Beginner’s Guide to Torch-Firing Enamels

Torch-firing is an exciting enameling technique that involves using a handheld torch to melt powdered glass enamel onto metal. The portability of a torch setup allows for colorful enamel designs applied directly onto finished pieces. However, torch-firing requires attentive observation as the enamels fuse. Follow these tips to safely learn torch-firing fundamentals, from selecting the right supplies to fusing flawless finishes.

Choosing a Torch-Firing Setup

A quality torch kit tailored to enameling is essential for successful results.

The Torch

Select an adjustable propane/air or propane/oxygen torch capable of reaching enameling temperatures around 1400-1600°F. Look for precision flame control.

Torch Tips

A range of screw-on torch tip sizes from large to small gives ability to alter the flame intensity and area.

Fireproof Work Surface

Have a ceramic fiber blanket or refractory brick surface for safely torch-firing on. This resists extreme heat.

Ventilation Fan

A fume extraction fan is important when enameling indoors to remove any fumes. Position near the firing area.

Protective Gear

Use a fireproof apron, eyewear, gloves, and mask when torch-firing. Have a fire extinguisher on hand.

Miscellaneous Supplies

Tweezers, calipers, trivets, mandrels, and other specialized torch tools are handy for manipulating enamel.

Preparing Metal Surfaces

Proper metal preparation helps enamel adhere evenly when torch-firing.

Cleaning and Degreasing

Scrub metal with a degreaser and rinse thoroughly before enameling to remove any oils or films that prevent adhesion.

Filing and Sanding

Lightly file or sand surfaces to create some tooth for the enamel to grip. Grits around 220-400 work well.

Optional Texturing

Consider imparting a subtle etched or hammered texture on the metal to give enamel something to key into.

Applying Counter-Enamel

Brush a thin even coat of clear counter-enamel over the metal and torch-fire before applying colors. This further improves adhesion.

Using Proper Metals

Select enameling-grade metals like copper, fine silver, or gold rather than jewelry-grade alloys. Their properties ensure better fusion.

Selecting Compatible Enamels

Not all enamels fuse successfully with a torch. Seek out specialized torch-fired formulas.

Mesh Sizes

Medium mesh enamels (-60/+80) offer a balance of smooth application and torch compatibility.

Optimal Fusing Temperatures

Look for enamels designed to fuse in the 1500-1600°F range reachable with a torch.

Thermal Expansion Match

Ensure the enamel glass expansion properties match the metal substrate to prevent cracking or crazing during cooling.

High Reactivity

Torch enamels contain chemistry that makes them reactive and able to fuse under short high-heat torch exposure rather than long kiln firings.

Test Samples

Always test new enamel colors on metal scrap before working on jewelry or art pieces. Verify compatibility.

Setup and Safety Tips

Proper setup and precautions are vital when torch enameling.

Secure Object Being Enameled

Use clamps, trivets, tweezers, or kiln wash to hold the jewelry or object steady for even heating.

Manage Flame Direction

Position the torch so that the flame flows across the enamel surface rather than blowing it around.

Fire in Sections

For large pieces, systematically focus the flame on smaller areas one at a time.

Limit Drafts

Avoid fanning or gusts that might blow enamel powder off the piece when fired.

Observe Temperature Changes

Watch for signs like enamel glowing or burning off that indicate excessive heat application.

Allow Proper Cool Down

Let pieces cool gradually after firing to prevent cracking from sudden temperature changes.

Have Backup Supplies/Tools Nearby

Keep extra enamel, mandrels, tweezers, and other items close by for easy access while firing.

Applying Enamel for Torch-Firing

Use these techniques to successfully prepare enamel layers for the torch:

Sifting Enamel Powder

For even application, sift enamel through a fine mesh sieve onto the metal rather than applying directly.

Layer Thickness

Apply enamel thinly and build up additional layers gradually. Thick single applications are prone to flaws like cracking or bubbling.

Edge Control

Carefully brush enamel slightly over the edges of a piece to create a smooth contoured appearance once fired.

Textured Effects

Try sifting enamel through patterned mesh screens or apply with a coarse brush for interesting textures.

Sgraffito Patterns

Lightly etch designs through a fired enamel layer before applying subsequent layers in contrasting colors.

Managing Color Blends

Gently feather and blend adjacent colors together with a damp brush while unfired for soft gradients.

Cleaning Bare Areas

Ensure surrounding metal is cleared of grains before firing or they may fuse into the enamel.

Torch-Firing techniques

Mastering the art of moving the torch flame takes practice. Follow these guidelines:

Preheating

Gradually warm the entire metal piece to prevent thermal shock before applying torch to the enamel.

Continuous Motion

Keep the torch moving continuously over the enamel to heat the area evenly and avoid hotspots.

Angle and Distance

Hold the torch flame at a 45 degree angle about 2-4 inches from the enamel to concentrate heat.

Flame Adjustments

Regulate the torch valve to maintain a soft blue flame ideal for even enameling fusion. Yellow tips indicate too much fuel.

Heating Sequence

Fire transparent enamels first, the heat to melt additional opaque layers. This prevents clouding of transparents.

Monitoring Enamel

Observe enamel closely as it melts. Remove torch immediately once glossy liquid fusion is achieved.

Multiple Thin Layers

Add and fire layers gradually versus trying to apply thick enamel all at once.

Troubleshooting Torch-Firing Issues

Pinpointing flaws in test pieces helps perfect technique. Common problems include:

• Bubbles – Too thick application, impurities
• Burn-offs – Torch too close, heat too intense
• Poor adhesion – Metal not properly cleaned
• Crazing – Enamel thermal expansion mismatch
• Fritting – Low quality enamel
• Cracking – Rapid heat or cool, thick layers

Achieving A Professional Torch-Fired Finish

These final steps complete a quality enameled look:

• Wet-sand any raised edges or bumps smooth after firing.
• Burnish and polish bare surrounding metal areas.
• Soak in warm water and detergent to clean.
• Apply a specialized anti-scratch enameling clear top coat.
• On jewelry, integrate torch-fired elements into quality findings.
• Photograph professionally against appropriate backgrounds.

Advancing Your Torch Skills

Pursuing torch mastery opens up creative possibilities. Consider:

• Taking lessons from experts to acquire nuanced techniques.
• Practicing on a wide range of metal items beyond just jewelry.
• Exploring special effects enamels like lusters and bubbly transparent.
• Using the torch to create artistic metal textures as a base for enamel.
• Incorporating carved, etched, or reticulated textures post-firing.
• Collaborating with glass blowers to create customized components.

With a passion for the flame and willingness to experiment, you can produce truly one-of-a-kind torch-fired enamel artwork.