Flux for enameling copper

[nichola.hk]

Hi everyone! I'm new to enameling copper (I've always used fine silver) and have had a tough time finding a flux to prevent the copper from blackening and then the black flakes fly around inside of my kiln and have also ruined enamel. Any tips would be so appreciated. Thank you! :)

[Dennis]

It's been a long time, so I've forgotten. But here is some general information to get you reading.

https://www.google.com/search?client=firefox-b-d&q=how+to+enamel+on+copper

Dennis.

[alastairduncan]

I've not done much enamelling and even less with copper and flux but here are a few links that may help.

https://www.milton-bridge.co.uk/products/jewellery-enamel/enamel-flux

if you look at this colour sheet there is also some info about which of the schauer enamels are ok for copper.

https://www.milton-bridge.co.uk/images/pdf/jewellery-enamel/schauer/milton-bridge-schauer-colour-chart-sheet.pdf

[Peter-B]

Hi there, I have only a slight knowledge of enamel on copper. I am at the moment attempting to enamel a copper soap dish about 100mm x 120mm surface area. Using a backing enamel (various Balls & Miltion Bridge left over’s) did the underside last night and like you the other side produced black flakes, but only when it left the kiln (cold shock?). I promptly put it in pickle (citric acid) and it cleaned up nicely, but with only 80% coverage (lots of vertical sides) needs touching up before attempting the face side . Kiln was 810C for about 110 sec. Hope this helps.
Peter

[CJ57]

My husband who works with copper has only found the flaking occurs in the cooling out of the kiln not when firing