Ceramic decals allow you to transfer designs or images to ceramic ornamental ware, titles, glass containers, and tableware. Fortunately, you can get the freedom of creating decals at home by printing your favorite images. In this process, a Dip Tech Printer can be a lifesaver.
Perhaps, a decal is easy to design and move to a ceramic surface, making it look charming. You can use decals to decorate earthenware, cups, stoneware, and other materials. These are cheaper than commercial decals. To make customized decals, you will need the following items,
- Polyurethane varnish
- Scissors
- Ceramic decal color/printer
- Over-glaze colors
- Squeegee
Simple Steps to Follow
- In the first step, you have to mix desired colors. Make sure to choose them carefully because you will use them for decorative purposes. Mix them in a pot with a brush to get a uniform color.
- It is time to create a pattern; therefore, choose a design from the internet according to your nature. You are free to blend designs to create a unique pattern. Now, create this pattern on decal paper. At this stage, you can try a Dip Tech Printer.
- In this step, you have to put glazing material on the pattern. You will need a squeegee, a soft cloth, or a brush. Evenly apply color on the entire pattern without leaving any space. Carefully pull the pattern away (this stage needs extra attention). Now put it on a towel and let it dry.
- Once your pattern is dry, apply polyurethane varnish to the entire pattern. Remember, the varnish will create a film on print and decal paper.
- Now, you will need scissors to cut the design carefully. If you have a complex design, you need extra attention to cut it.
Procedure to Put Decals on Earthenware
- Making a decal and applying it to a surface are two different things. You must carefully follow these steps to apply decals on ceramic cups, plates, or tiles.
- Clean ceramic surface using lukewarm water and use a cloth damped in lukewarm water to wipe the surface. You can use alcohol to remove debris from the ceramic surface.
- Glaze fire your decal to make it look well. Now, trim your decal and damp it in tepid water. This procedure needs extra attention and experience, so be careful and delicate. After some time, the paper will begin peeling off the edges. It can twist but be patient because it will become straight after some time. Remember, you can remove decals from water if its backing slips easily. You can leave the decal on a towel if it is not peeling off.
- Clean the ceramic surface properly with a dry paper towel because improper cleaning can make it difficult to apply a decal. Now put one edge of the decal on ceramic surfaces, slide its paperback away and leave the decal there.
- Now you have to remove water or air under the decals. Remember, any air bubble under the decals can disturb its sticking, so carefully remove these particles. Use a damp sponge to remove water or air efficiently. Blotting paper towels can be suitable for removing particles of water.
Finally, you can re-fire ceramic to almost cone 15 (1540 degrees F). You will need a kiln to get this temperature.
If you do not have a kiln, leave decals without this process. However, a spray sealer will help you to protect decals. Use a Dip Tech Printer to give a professional touch to your decals.