How to Apply a Decal without Having to Fire in a Kiln

Many people don't like having to deal with decals on ceramics because they don't want to have to locate a ceramic shop to have the item fired in a kiln.

If you're not going to eat or drink out of your item, then the need for a kiln when dealing with decals could possibly be a thing of the past.

When a decal is needed for a plaque or something that is going to be for your home decor, acrylic paint can now be used, where your decal can be applied directly over your paint.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Decals
• Ceramic Bisque
• Lukewarm water
• Bowl
• Paper Towel or soft cloth

1. Paint your item as usual, using your acrylic paints. You can see the item pictured, to see how this item was painted with regular acrylic paints that you can purchase from your local department store.

2. Once your item is painted, then take your decal, cut it as close to the pattern as possible, and soak it in a bowl of lukewarm water. Make sure the bowl is large enough to accommodate your decal from one end to the other. The decal needs to lay flat. Put the paper side of the decal face down in the water.

3. When the decal starts to rise from the paper, then remove it and attach it to your item where you want it to be.

4. Once your decal is in place, use a paper towel to rub the decal gently, pushing out the water from beneath it. Start in the middle first and rub from the center, to the outside edges of the decal. Then, let your piece sit for at least 24 hours.

5. 
    
   Duncan Porcelain Spray Sealer

   Using Porcelain Spray sealer, spray very lightly over the decal, along with the remainder of your piece. Wait for it to dry, and then spray lightly again. Porcelain Spray, sprayed lightly over the decal will not harm the decal. Make sure it's porcelain spray only, because matte, and gloss spray will melt your decal.

[mvalora]

on 10/3/2009 Good instructions on how to apply a decal without having to fire in a kiln. Thanks!