When I am teaching enamelling on copper, I am often asked, "which transparent enamels work well on copper?" This is a very good question as laying a coloured enamel over copper (a pinky or peach-coloured metal) can do unpredictable things to the colour of the enamel you are using resulting in something that is far from what you were expecting (or hoping for!)
However, there are some radiant exceptions to this rule. Whilst in Denmark on the Guild Of Enamellers Week we were delighted to be given open access to the wonderful range of Thompson unleaded enamels as supplied by Tom Lundsten of enamelsupply.com (around 100 different colours, opaques, transparents and opalescents). And all to "play with", test and sample during the workshop week. It was a jewelled treasure trove to dip into, with so many glorious shades and not enough time to try them all!
However, amongst my many tests and explorations, I found three autumnal shades of transparent enamel which really appeal to me. I find these work well when applied directly onto copper, (with a minimum of two coats) firing each coat at around 830 degrees celsius.
1> Woodrow Red Transparent: no: 2880 Thompson Enamels The rich chestnut red of glowing conkers or mulled wine....delicious!
2> Golden Clear Flux : no: 2015 Thompson Enamels. a transparent flux which clears beautifully on copper leaving a bright red-gold hue.
3> Chartreuse Transparent: no: 2220 Thompson Enamels. A pale and delicate lime green, the colour of the French Herbal Liqueur of the same name. Very beautiful!

There are several excellent enamels which glow on copper and I will cover more of thein subsequent posts, so watch this space!
If you have any "enamel on copper" recommendations of your own, (Thompson or otherwise) do let me know and I will share here for others to explore as you all enamel your own bowls too!
Thank you Tom - It made our week in Denmark an exciting exploration into radiant colour!
Eleanor
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