Painted China Will Bring Beauty To Your Home

By Noemi Wallner


Painted china is very appealing. Some striking effects are possible by using different techniques and materials. Many people enjoy the activity as a hobby. Decorations can be added to functional items or artworks can be created to frame and hang on the wall. Once a piece has been fired the color is very durable.

The technique of painting on porcelain is considered an art. Porcelain artists seek to enhance the object being treated. Painting is done in layers, with the object being fired in a kiln between each layer. This sets the paint. For more intense colors, repeat firings are necessary.

China painting supplies can be found at many handicraft stores. With so many brands and varieties of paint, brushes and green ware, the beginner would do well to invest in a few classes. Always buy the best paint you can afford. Joining an interest group will also give you access to helpful advice.

Kaolin clay is the main ingredient in porcelain. The process was first developed in Asia. Eventually manufacturers in England and on the continent began to add pulverized bone. The resulting product became known as bone china. Originally, color and decoration was added to hide imperfections.

The paint is often powdered and then mixed with oil to form a thick consistency. It must not be applied too thickly as it will chip. It is better to apply several layers and fire each. A vast range of effects is possible from translucent to opaque hues. Metallic and iridescent effects are possible.

The original design is sketched out with markers. These lines burn off when the item is fired. Squared or tapered brushes are used for various processes and both come in a range of sizes. To prevent contamination of one color with another, brushes must be cleaned before changing color. At the end of a painting session, a special cleaner is used to remove all traces of paint.

The oil used in the paint depends on the effect required and the composition of the article. Choice of oil is important. It needs to wet the brush enough to allow the paint to flow. Once applied, the paint is allowed to dry off a little. It is then fired. If it is not allowed to dry off there is the danger that the colors will run when heated. You can buy premixed mediums for both mixing and painting.

Fashions have changed over the years. Whereas the style was once highly controlled with formal and restrained subject matter, the more modern method is more akin to painting with oils. Colors are blended and there is much emphasis on light and thin washes of color. Whichever style you prefer, painted china will bring you much pleasure.




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