a) Warm the ware. This makes the decal softer on contact.
b) Slightly increase the water temperature in the decorating bowl.
2. If you see a halo or “ghost” around the decal after firing :
a) Check the decorating water is clean.
b) Have you fired at the correct temperature ?
c) Was the kiln correctly ventilated ?
3. To store the decal sheets in good condition :
a) Store in a dry place.
b) Do not store near sources of heat or light.
c) Do not store in cold areas.
d) We recommend storing at 60 – 70 F
4. If you live in areas of hard water it can be beneficial to add just the slightest drop of washing liquid. Do not add more than a drop as this can dissolve the adhesive gum from the paper.
A step-by-step guide to perfect results.
The basic tools required to apply decals are a water bowl, a rubber squeegee and a soft cloth or paper towel.
1. Fill your bowl / decorating tray with clean, room temperature water.
2. Soak each of your decal sections (one at a time) in the water until it starts to uncurl and slightly relaxes. IMPORTANT – Do not allow the decals to soak for a long period or detach from the backing paper
3. Remove from the water and allow to rest for a few moments and you will notice that the decal will slide around on the backing paper when gently rubbed. The decal is now ready for use.
4. Make sure the ware is clean, any dirt or grease can affect the fired result.
5. Pick up the decal with the backing paper and slide the decal from the paper on to the ware. Do not apply upside down. Position the decal in the correct location and hold one edge with a finger and using the squeegee remove all water and air bubbles from under the decal.
6. Wipe carefully with a clean cloth or paper towel to remove surface water.
7. Make a final check for positioning, air bubbles and water etc. When the decal has been on the ware for a few minutes it cannot be moved.
8. If you notice any air / water bubbles under the decal before firing, you can use a pin to gently pierce a small hole to allow you to press the bubble down.
9. Allow to dry for 4 to 8 hours before firing.
10. Poor application or lack of attention to detail can result in after firing defects so please ensure that care is taken and everything is clean. Change the water in your decorating bowl at regular intervals.
11. For firing information please see FIRING DECALS.
FIRING GUIDANCE FOR DECALS
The application of a decal onto a ceramic or glass item is the same and information can be found in the APPLYING WATERSLIDE DECALS sheet.
It is important to vent your kiln during the early stages of the firing up to about 500c (932f). This will ensure that the smoke from the covercoat and residual printing mediums can clear from the kiln and leave a clean atmosphere for the rest of the firing process.
Most of our decals can be used for both ceramic and high temperature glass (flat glass, float glass etc) unless otherwise stated. The information below is for guidance purposes and you will no doubt have your own practices to suit your own conditions and needs.
There is no fixed ramp rate for decals but a steady consistent rise is recommended, 180 to 300 c per hour is good up to the peak.
We would also recommend holding the peak temperature for a few minutes so the heat can equalise through the kiln.
CERAMIC FIRING
Earthenware 780-800c (1436 – 1472f)
China 820-835c (1508 – 1535f)
Stoneware – 840c (1544f)
Porcelain – 830-860c (1526 – 1580f)
DIGITAL DECALS – Use the highest temperature listed above for your type of ceramic.
GLASS FIRING – float glass, bullseye glass etc
The advice we give here is for only the basic firing of a decal onto glass. We cannot give precise information because of the multitude of ways that glass is artistically decorated.
It is important not to “sandwich” the decal before it has been fired as this will trap the burn off smoke in between the layers of glass.
A firing temperature of 720 – 740c (1328 – 1364f) is recommended. Higher temperatures can make the colours start to look diluted and transparent.
No doubt you will experiment to find a method that suits you.
Digitally printed decals can also be used successfully on glass.
Trade name :Decals
Synonyms :Transfers, Decalcomanias
Supplier :Bailey Decal Ltd.
Trent House,
Dunning Street, Phone : +44 1782 524400
Tunstall Fax : +44 1782 524414
Stoke on Trent Email : natalie@baileydecal.co.uk
ST6 6AP
United Kingdom
2. Composition / information on ingredients
Decals contain inorganic ceramic colour within a thin organic film printed on to paper.
Some decals may contain elements such as lead, cadmium etc.
The thin organic film contains dried organic, resinous ink vehicles and lacquers.
3. Hazards identification
The ceramic colours used in decals may contain ingredients hazardous to health. During the normal process of applying decals these hazards can not be exhibited.
The water – soluble coating on the paper (used for decals) maybe an irritant. The soaking water should be changed at regular intervals.
When firing the ware to which the decals have been applied, or during accidental fire, harmful, toxic fumes may be emitted.
4. First aid measures
Skin irritation – wash the affected area with clean water.
5. Fire fighting measures
Decals will support combustion. Use whatever existing media are required for surrounding fire conditions. Harmful and toxic fumes may be emitted, so self contained breathing apparatus should be used.
6. Accidental release measures
No special precautions.
7. Handling and storage
Store upright where possible. Store in a cool, dry area.
8. Exposure controls / personal protection
Inhalation exposure only arises during the firing process. Adequate ventilation should be provided so that Occupational exposure limits are not exceeded. Local exhaust ventilation is recommended.
9. Physical description
Decals are sheets of paper with a decorative pattern printed on them.
10. Stability and reactivity
Decals are stable and unreactive. During the firing process or during accidental fire, harmful and toxic fumes may be emitted.
11. Toxicological information
Decals contain organic and inorganic compounds (see 2. Composition), which may be harmful if ingested. Do not eat or drink when using.
12. Ecological information
On contact with water the paper will curl and then flatten. If left too long in the water the decal will separate from the paper. The decal is relatively light and flimsy, it may float and it may stick to things. The paper is quite strong and will break up very slowly in water.
13. Disposal
Dispose in accordance with local and national regulations.
14. Transport information
Unrestricted for all modes of transport.
15. Regulatory information
No supply labelling is required.
16. Other information
Further advice is available from the supplier.
Our products are designed for use on ceramics and to be fired in a kiln. As we have no control over the firing conditions it is the responsibility of the end user to fully check and test their products.
Our decals can however be used for the decoration of many other products. We reccommend that those products are fully checked and tested for any regulations that might apply.