How to Make Transferware

Transferring images was a very common method of decorating ceramics from the mid-18th century through the early 20th century. Though still produced by some companies, the basic method of creating transferware is that used by craftsmen of old. Designs are printed onto a piece of paper or tissue and then transferred to the ceramic vessel or figurine during firing.

Things You'll Need

• Blank ceramic vase (can be glazed)
• Copper or zinc plate
• Burin or other engraving tool
• Ceramic Inks
• Cloth for wiping the copper or zinc plates
• Thin tissue
• Shears
• Kiln

Instructions

1. Plan out a simple design on a piece of paper or using a computer graphics program. A simple pattern of geometric shapes can be engraved fairly easily on a copper or zinc plate.

2. Engrave the design onto the copper or zinc plate. Either metal will work; copper will last longer. Try to keep depth of lines even. Deep lines will hold more ink and create the effect of stronger, heavier lines when printed.

3. Apply ceramic inks to the plate. The ink will settle in the engraved lines. Use one color ink at a time. Wipe off the plate to remove ink from all areas that are not engraved.

4. Heat the plate to the temperature required by your ceramic ink. Use a press to firmly press the tissue onto the inked and engraved plate. Carefully remove the tissue. Your design will be transferred in reverse to the tissue.

5. Cut the tissue to the approximate size of the blank ceramic vase. Wrap the inked side of the tissue around the vase. Press it carefully into place.

6. Fire the blank vase at a low temperature with the tissue still firmly attached to the vessel. The tissue will burn off while the ink will become fused to the ceramic itself. Allow kiln to cool. Remove vase.

Tips & Warnings

• Try using a simple repeating pattern that follows the shape of transferware vase. Experiment with more complex designs as you become more comfortable with the engraving process.

• Use multiple colors only when your are comfortable the with the engraving and transfer process. Each color within your design will require separate steps of inking, pressing and transferring.

References

• Transferware Collectors Club