Help!...Seeing red over enamels!!

[Solunar Silver Studio]

Having rediscovered an old stash of enamel powders last week and having great results with the random blue one I picked out, I have done some samples with the others...somewhat less successfully!!
I know enamels do deteriorate with age and I haven't used these for years - so it might be that - but it seems to be the red, brown and purple colours that are just turning out yukky and I know reds can burn out if the temperature is too high.
I do have an enameling book upstairs - but it is so much more fun to get it from you...the hands on experts!
I fired the blue successfully at 800 this morning (I went for the middle of a range suggested by a website on enameling) ...should I go lower for the reds and purples?
Any insight on the firing of enamels for a relative beginner would be great!
Barbara

[MuranoSilver]

Hi Barbara
It's because the oxides/metals they use to form the red enamels can react with the silver. (They are known for being the most difficult colours to achieve) Try firing a clear flux underneath then the red as a second firing
Nic x

[Solunar Silver Studio]

Thanks Nic, I'll have to have a rummage through my collection of cobweb covered pots to see if I have a clear flux. It was only a beginners kit from years and years ago so I can't remember what is in there. I can see a lot of potential in enamels with fine silver and pmc...as far as I'm concerned anyway...not that I'm that lazy but I hate all the cleaning up between firings on oxidising metals..it's so soul destroying! You don't lose the flow (or the will to live!!) with fine silver! I'll do a bit more playing with the blues anyway and then I'll invest in a few new colours. I don't think I can afford the Cooksons new kits though.
I've just done another ring design- it's in the tumbler now - and a new batch of fine silver sheet was delivered from Cooksons yesterday... (beams with glee!)
Barbara

[Solunar Silver Studio]

Found some transparent flux!! Next question... Do you have to 'wash' flux? (Don't know if that is the term but I have been rinsing the enamels and getting rid of the white water that comes off them until the colour is 'clean')...I am poised for action!!
Barbara

[MuranoSilver]

**Flicks through her enamelling books, errrrmm yes? maybe? probably can't do any harm, lol
Nic xx

[Solunar Silver Studio]

AH!!!! Finally got you!!!!! Tee hee hee..........