Class #2 in Korean Chilbo (Enameling)

I am learning new techniques in Chilbo (Korean enameling) every week. Last week I learned how to cover the pendant with a base coat of enamel. A thin layer of some type of liquid is painted thinly onto the brass pendant and then powdered enamel is tapped over the entire pendant. There is definitely a touch to be able to turn the pendant with your fingertips while your fingertips are holding the pendant. I dropped two which had to be wiped clean before I could start again. My teacher is incredibly patient with me.

After the base coat, I dropped small shards of glass onto the pendant. The pendant was placed into the kiln and as it was melting, the teacher put a long metal rod into the peep hole of the kiln. The rod was bent at a 90 degree angle at the end with a pointed tip. When the pendant was melted, we quickly took the rod out, opened the kiln door and drew a circle through the enamel and closed the door. The rod was put into cold water immediately. The whole process took only seconds but it made a beautiful pattern on the pendants.


This is a blurry picture of the top pendant in the first picture before it went into the kiln. I've ordered an English book on enameling to help me better understand exactly what I am doing. This week I will learn how to apply silver leaf. I can't wait!