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| Enamelart |
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Jane is the creative force behind Enamelart. A self taught
painter, she began a
four year enamelling course at the Bristol School of Art.
Enjoying making enamelled wall art and encouraged by the enthusiastic response
of visitors
to her studio she decided to concentrate on making these unique
pieces. Later including the light switch covers and
jewellery. Jane is a Craftsman of the Guild of Enamellers.
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Barley Wood Walled Garden Studios |
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| What is enamelling? |
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Enamelling is the technique of fusing coloured glass powder
onto a metal surface and firing in a kiln to high temperature.
It is possible to achieve a depth of colour and luminosity not
found in any other medium. Enamelart light switches combine beauty
and functionality, colour and design in a practical object which
we all use. The exquisite jewel like colours of the enamelled
surface will enhance and complement any existing colour scheme.
It will never fade or wear and the surface is smooth and easy
to wipe clean.
Enamel (glass) is crushed to a powder; the powder is applied
by one of several methods to a metal surface. It is then heated
in a kiln at 700-800 C. Further coats of enamel, usually in different
colours are applied and fired, sometimes up to 10-20 firings are
required. There are many different colours and each has its own
specific firing characteristics making this a demanding and unforgiving
medium.
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Firing the light switches in the kiln
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| About the light switches |
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The light switch consists of enamelled copper,
attached to a British Standard 1 gang or 2 gang single light switch
(84 x 84 mm), ready to fit in place of your existing switch. The
enamel is kiln fired onto the copper which has been hand cut to
size. Dimmer switches will be
available soon.
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Hand cutting the copper to size
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| Fitting the light switches |
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| Ensure the power supply is off. Remove your existing
light switch and replace with your Enamelart switch. You fit your
Enamelart switch exactly as you would when replacing any normal
shop bought switch but if you are unsure about any aspect of your
electrical light switch, you should consult a qualified electrician.
Remember enamel is glass; the glass surface is strong but care should be
taken when fixing, so as not to chip or break the enamel at the
screw holes.
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