Learning enamelling is essentially learning about how to create layers. What is the difference between transparent over opaque, opaque over opaque, transparent over opalescent, opalescent over opaque, opalescent over transparent?

The enamelist wants to build layers in such a way that the viewer can see light reflecting through.

A piece designed for mounting and framing by Averill Shepps. Photo by Anton Shepps.

It was done for Karen Cohen's book, "The Art of Fine Enameling", which shows a step-by-step process.

Used with permission.

Building layers of just the right thickness and firing then to just the right stage is of crucial importance. When the tiny grains of enamel are fusing (coming together) they are also coming apart, so if your coat is too thin, there will be holes in it. If it is too thick, it may flake, create high ridges or become cloudy (if it is transparent)

Enamelling is the practice of finding the correct balance.

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