Description

Firing decals are used to decorate items such as glass and glazed ceramics. They consist of a thin plastic film containing color pigments that fuse to the surface in a ceramic kiln and are then dishwasher-safe. The plastic film is attached to a paper backing, which is soaked in lukewarm water for about 30 seconds to release the decal. The paper represents the object — meaning that the orientation on the paper is the orientation required on the piece (if placed upside down, the decal will disappear during firing). The decal is then carefully transferred in the correct orientation onto the glazed surface and fired at around 795°C, and on glass at 650–730°C.

Information

1. If the item has difficult shapes to decorate:
   a) Warm up the item slightly. This makes the decal softer when applied.
   b) Slightly increase the water temperature in the decorating bowl.
2. If you see a halo or “ghost” around the decal after firing:
   a) Check that the decorating water is clean.
   b) Did you fire at the correct temperature?
   c) Was the kiln properly ventilated?
3. How to store decal sheets properly:
   a) Keep them in a dry place.
   b) Do not store near heat or light sources.
   c) Do not store in cold environments.
   d) Recommended storage temperature: 16–19°C.
4. If you live in an area with hard water, adding a small drop of dish soap can help. Do not add more than one drop, as this may dissolve the adhesive layer from the paper.
5. If the decal disappears completely or partially:
   a) The decal was applied upside down.
   b) The firing temperature was too high.

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Manual