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  Markasky

Enamel & Graphite

3/24/2019

6 Comments

 
Yes, you can use graphite on enamel. The basic process is to use a light colored enamel on metal and draw on it with a graphite pencil.

It’s not quite that simple. If you have ever tried to draw on glass you know that the pencil point will slide all over without leaving a mark. The idea is to create a matte finish or ‘tooth’ on the enamel that will snag the graphite. Usually, this can be done by stoning the surface or by using an etching cream. Neither technique provides instant gratification. Stoning is difficult to get a smooth even surface and etching takes time and exposure to chemicals.

Picture
I like to experiment with different things combined with enamels, just to see what it will do. I’ve used salt, sugar, sand, baking soda, vinegar, dawn dish soap and milk. While experimenting I found out that if you paint milk on to your enamel and let it dry (I use a heat gun, I hate to wait) it enables you to draw on it with a pencil, no chemicals, no elbow grease.

​ I find that heavy cream works the best. Paint it on, let it dry, draw on it, and fire. I use a Smith mini-torch with propane and oxygen to fire all my enamels.

​
Picture
6 Comments
Reikopm
3/24/2019 07:08:11 pm

Great tip! In my class we've always used etch all, which is expensive and toxic. I love it that you used organic ;o)

Reply
Peggy Neer
8/15/2020 06:32:57 am

Thank you for sharing this, I love it when I find a different way to do things.

Reply
Evelyn Markasky
8/17/2020 01:54:30 am

Let me know how it works for you!!

Reply
Sara
10/28/2020 10:09:01 am

That's amazing! I have a question. After you draw on the enamel, do you add another layer? Or do you just torch fire again to stick the graphite into it? Thank you!

Reply
Evelyn link
10/30/2020 10:24:16 am

I don’t usually add another layer, just fire to sink the graphite into the enamel. That’s not to say that I have ‘never’ added another layer! The graphite tends to burn out the more you fire it, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t look good. The fun of this is trying different things and experimenting to see what might happen.

Reply
Sara
11/15/2020 08:29:12 am

Thank you so much!




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Evelyn markasky
Santa Cruz, California

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