Graphics Enameling Basics

Learn the basics of an ancient decorative technique of fusing vitreous enamel, a material made of powdered glass mixed with minerals for coloration, to a steel substrate. You'll be introduced to the skills necessary for successful enameling, appropriate for projects such as signage, installations, mural elements or similar larger-scale work. This class does not cover jewelry enameling.

We'll start with the basics of mixing enamels and preparing the substrate, and then explore a variety of enamel surface design techniques. Using viscous medium and mason stains for coloration, you'll paint, sgraffito, sponge, and otherwise manipulate the enamels to produce exciting effects that result in a durable, temperature resistant surface unaffected by UV light. Using the various techniques demonstrated, you'll work on and fire pieces suitable for technical reference as well as a finished piece.

Instructor: Heather Doyle is CAFAC's artistic director, and she has taught sculptural welding and blacksmithing for more than 10 years. Her enameling background began with the John Biggers Seed Project, a major public art installation coming soon to North Minneapolis, comprised of enameled steel panels on a bridge railing over Highway 94. Heather oversaw the buildout of CAFAC's enameling studio and has trained with master enamelists Dave Berfield and Barbara Minor.