How to Apply Decals to Bisque Projects

Decals are an easy way to add artistic detail to a ceramic piece.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Decal Squeegees
• Kilns
• Clear Matte Glazes
• Rags
• Sponges
• Rags
• Containers Of Lukewarm Water
• Decals
• Fine Sandpaper
• Fine Sandpaper
• Sponges

1. Prepare the surface on which you want to put the decal. Make sure it's clean and smooth. Use fine sandpaper if it needs work.

2. Pour glaze inside the piece and let it dry if it is intended to hold water or food.

3. Apply a clear matte glaze to the bottom of the piece and to the area where the decal will go.

4. Fire the piece in a kiln.

5. Put the decal in a container of lukewarm water ' it will curl up. As the decal comes away from its backing, it will begin to uncurl. It should now be ready to apply.

6. Wet the area on the project with a clean, damp rag.

7. Slip the decal from its backing onto the glazed area.

8. Use a damp sponge to press the air bubbles out starting at the center of the decal and working outward.

9. Finish with a decal squeegee to insure that it's completely flat against the surface.

10. Let it dry for at least three hours and fire again.

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on 10/10/2008 Decals have very specific firing requirements. Most should be fired at cone 018 to 020, but it's a very good idea when purchasing decals to find out what the firing temperature should be. If you fire it in a standard glaze fire, the decal will burn and the results will NOT be pretty!