Making Cloisonne Enamel Art on Curved Surfaces: Step by Step Masterclass with Tips

In this 11-minute tutorial, I’ll walk you through the full Cloisonné enameling process as I create a unique design inspired by themes of climate change and resilience, reflected in the piece’s title, "High Water Rising." The name is a nod to the rising tides and shifting environments brought on by climate change, as well as the spirit of the Bob Dylan song, "High Water (For Charley Patton".

What’s Special About This Project? This piece is crafted on a small, steep-sided copper vessel, presenting unique challenges for Cloisonné enameling. This design is created on a curved, three-dimensional form, requiring careful application techniques and specialized methods to ensure the enamels and wires adhere perfectly.

What You’ll See in This Video

Here’s a quick rundown of what’s covered in this close-up, narrated video:

Design and Planning: I’ll introduce the theme and talk through the design, discussing both the aesthetic inspiration and practical considerations.

Preparing the Cloisonné Wires: I demonstrate how to shape, cut, and place each wire for this particular design, offering some handy tips.

Wet Packing the Enamel: Watch as I apply layers of finely ground enamel powder, discussing how I choose colors and layer them for depth and vibrancy. Wet packing on a steep surface is tricky, and I’ll share the techniques I’ve developed for this.

Firing the Piece: This is where the magic happens!

Stoning Back and Polishing: I’ll show you the techniques for stoning back (a process of refining the surface) and polishing, creating a smooth, vibrant finish.

Final Firing: I’ll do a final firing to seal everything, ensuring a durable, glossy surface.

Why This Video is Perfect for You:

If you’re interested in enamel art, jewelry making, or simply love detailed craft tutorials, this video is perfect for you! Whether you’re a beginner learning the basics or an experienced enamel artist looking to work on complex shapes, there’s something here for everyone.

Join me on this artistic journey as we bring “High Water Rising” to life through Cloisonné on copper!

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