The general firing range for Thompson enamels is 1400°–1500°F (760°–815°C). Enamels will fuse in 1 to 4 minutes depending on the color, type and thickness of the metal, and the temperature of the kiln. A typical firing is 1450°F (790°C) for around 2 minutes. Enamel powders will change in color after firing. Refer to the color image for a general indication of the fired result. Computer monitors do not accurately represent color, and enamel colors may vary slightly from batch to batch, so pre-testing your enamels before using them is recommended. Bronze is not recommended for enameling. The enamels are not formulated to adhere to it and will crack or chip off.

Color Specific Information:

• Color: 2840 Mandarin Orange
• Metals: Recommended for fine copper and gold. Not recommended for silver. See additional firing notes below.
• Recommended Firing Range: 1350°–1450°F (730°–790°C).
• Firing: Color may darken or fade out if fired too long or too hot. Watch closely and pull from kiln as soon as enamel has fused.
• COE: 323 cubic expansion
• Grade: 80 Mesh
• Type: Transparent
• Color Code: (C) Contains Cadmium

Additional Firing Notes:
This is a reactive color that will turn dark and opaque when fired directly on silver or copper. It will also darken if exposed to prolonged heat. Take care not to over fire. Firing on Copper: Firing a clear flux layer first will completely eliminate the problem. The initial firing of 2020 or 2040 clear should be at 1550°F (845°C) to clear the oxides off the metal. The copper should appear clean and bright under the enamel If it appears reddish or mottled it wasn't fired hot enough and/or long enough. Refire at high temperture. Subsequent color firings should be at lower temperatures to avoid over firing the color. Firing on Silver: This silver sample pictured is sheet metal and was fired directly and over a single layer of 2040 Clear. The reaction is somewhat mitigated over the clear, but there is still some bleed through. If attempting on silver, fire at least two layers of 2020 or 2040 Clear on to the silver, and then reduce the temperature of the kiln before firing the color. This technique often works well on sheet metal, but is less effective on metal clay due to it's porosity which releases more silver salts into the enamel. Color reaction frequently bleeds through even with the clear barrier underneath. Also, the more often it's fired, the more likely there will be a reaction, so this color should be saved for a final firing if at all possible. It may also be fired over gold foil to reduce or eliminate color reaction. Be sure to test techniques before commiting a valuable piece. Overall, this is not a color recommended for silver for those less experienced with enameling. It's important to become comfortable and achieve some level of success with the Standard and (A) colors before trying the more challenging colors.

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©2013 - The color notes presented here are the intellectual property of Pam East and reproduction in whole or part in any form requires written permission.