Coarse Enamel Mixes and Torch Fired Enameling

I have been using coarse enamel mixes (20/40 mesh) in my torch fire enameling work since 1972. My first use was 20/40 solid colors as a texture over the base color of flowers, leaves, butterflies, mushrooms, etc. (see Figure #1).

While on tour with the World Art Shows in 1973, a spill of nine colors (all 20/40 mesh) happened while traveling on Highway US 88. Fortunately, the spill was all over my work table, at the rear of my 35′ long fifth-wheel travel trailer.

The result was my first color mix, named Mix 88. I still have four pounds in stock. Currently, I have eight color mixes in the leaded 20/40 mesh. These mixes are great for enamel beads (see Figure #2) as well as lamp work beads.

In 1975, I was forced to work out-of-doors due to fire regulations. As a result, I started working with 60/80 mesh enamels, which helped solve the blowing wind problem, to some extent. One of the good developments of the 60/80 mesh was to allow me to mix white with other colors and come up with pale or soft colors (see Figure #3). Yes, they are a bit grainy, but acceptable and unique.

I also work with a variety of NO LEAD mixes in various mesh sizes. Enamel in the coarse mesh sizes is easy to mix and loads of fun for the creative enamelist. My mixes are for sale, along with all the other Thompson Enamel products.

For over 35 years, all of my work has been done in the Multi Torch Fire (MTF) enameling process. In my first 10 years, 1970-1981, I logged over 8,000 hours of public demonstration.

Currently, I am a consultant for Hydrogen Technology Applications, Inc., in the area of Glass & Glass Metal Fusion. I am working with the Klein H₂O 2000 gas generator, which produces a mixed gas that is clean, very hot, and safe. With this gas, I can produce fine enamel finishes and color, with speed (Figure #4). I am very impressed with the new Thompson Enamel Frit for lamp work beads while using Klein's hydrogen gas.

April 26-28, 2005, I will be a demonstrating artist at the American Welding Society show in Dallas, TX. At this show, I will be working with both hydrogen gas and the Thompson Enamel products.

For more information on Mr. Spencer, his enamel mixes, or Multi Torch Firing Enameling, contact spencer@torch-fired-enamels.com, or visit his web site, www.torch-fired-enamels.com.

Photo Credit: CheryI Ann Swallow.

By Joseph Spencer [Volume 23, Number 5, December, 2004]

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