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Pop of Color Enamel Earrings Tutorial

Pop of Color Enamel Earrings Tutorial

Created by: Summer Melaas

Note: We've had great success enameling our 24-gauge brass blanks, but for the most consistent color results, this enamel is best with copper blanks.


Designer Tips

  • Texture the top portion of the blanks with a chasing hammer or ball pein hammer.
  • Use the smaller end of the 2-hole metal punch to punch a 1/16" hole near the top of the blanks. Be sure to center it, so the earrings hang properly.
  • Clean the blanks with Penny Brite to remove all oils.
  • Optional: Spray a light, even coat of Klyr Fire on the bottom portion of the blanks.
  • Sift a light coat of enamel in desired pattern onto blanks.
  • Use locking tweezers or enameling spatula to carefully transfer a blank to torching basket (in tripod), and torch fire.
  • Watch closely: when the enamel begins to melt, you'll see a glossy "orange peel" stage where the enamel beads up before slumping to a smooth fired sheen. Fire a bit more, but don't overheat - some colors will scorch.
    • Use fiber-grip tweezers to carefully grasp fired piece by edges (don't damage the fresh enamel). Set aside and allow to cool in a warm pan of vermiculite.
  • Note: Because you are enameling brass and not copper, colors may not always turn out as expected. Many turn out peach after firing. No worries, just come back over the top with with another thin layer to add some color back onto the blank!
  • After cooling, scrub firescale off top portion and back with Penny Brite.
  • Add ear wire. For best way to open and securely clsoe loops, see Jewelry Basics 101 (PDF).

Suggested Supplies

  • 1 pair #34-003-12-AC TierraCast Earring Hook Findings w/ 3mm Bead, Black Niobium / Antiqued Copper Plated
  • 1 each #81-500-1995-S Thompson Opaque 80-mesh Enamel for Metals - Black, Sample
  • 2 each #05-045-06-24 Swarovski 5045 Rondelle Bead, 6mm - Jet
  • 1 spool [use 4"] #47-406-SP Copper Jewelry Wire, 22ga, Round, 125'
  • 2 each #44-720-59 24ga Brass Stamping Blank, Bar, 38x6.5mm
    or, cut your own blanks from copper strips, and file the corners rounded:
  • 1 6-pack [use 1/2 of one strip] #64-981-24-25 Copper Sheet, 24 Gauge, 6x0.25"
    Note: colors will be more reliable with copper.
  • 1 each #86-220-07 Penny Brite Copper Cleaner
  • 1 each #81-510-001 Klyr Fire, Holding Medium

Tools

Additional Supplies:
  • Small spray bottle (cosmetics/travel aisle or craft store) for Klyr Fire
  • Fuel Tank Holder: Large can 1/3 filled with rocks (coffee can size works well to secure fuel tank)
  • Vermiculite in warm bread pan or small crockpot
Jan 1st 2021 Summer Melaas

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