How to apply gold luster
Undoubtedly, many of you have embarked on your ceramic journey and, at some point, been captivated by that radiant gold adorning certain pieces. It’s an enchanting color that beckons you, impossible to resist.
After delving into research, you discover it's called luster and, intriguingly, it contains real gold.
Luster is a product made with real gold and that’s the secret behind its breathtaking beauty. While completely safe post-firing, it's essential to note that in its raw state, luster is extremely toxic.
Throughout my pottery journey, I’ve learned a lot about applying luster and I’m going to share that knowledge with you.
SAFETY
Safety is paramount when working with this material. Clockmakers historically used to go crazy using gold and although today’s gold luster is not nearly as toxic, it never hurts to be safe.
Here’s what you need:
Respirator Mask: Opt for one that covers both organic and inorganic vapors and particles (if you also want to use it for powder substances). This provides comprehensive protection, and you won't detect the strong odor of the luster when the mask is properly fitted.
Plastic Globes: Protect your hands and prevent fingerprints on your pieces.
Brushes: Use brushes exclusively for luster. Ensure they are new for your first application, and don't mix different lusters. Each brush has its designated luster.
Cotton Balls and Alcohol: Clean pieces from dust before applying gold. Also, use them to clean the brushes.
Luster Thinner: This liquid aids significantly in brush cleaning. While alcohol works, luster thinner is more effective.
Plastic tablecloth: Cover your work surface to prevent any luster spots.
Always wear safety gear!
APPLYING LUSTER
Once geared up and secure, applying luster is a straightforward process. Dip the brush into the bottle and paint. However, the challenge lies in finding the right balance—too thick or too thin can yield undesirable results. Tricky, isn't it?
When in doubt, especially for first-timers, thicker is better.
If the layer is too thin, gold luster may turn purple or metallic once fired. A thicker application consistently imparts a more golden tone. Expect a bit of trial and error, but with practice, you'll master the technique.
Ensure you're working in a well-ventilated area to avoid lingering odors.
FIRING LUSTER
There's not much mystery to firing luster, except that it's typically recommended to fire it at cone 019. However, it's crucial to ensure your kiln is located in an extremely well-ventilated area, as the fumes released during firing can be toxic. Also, make sure your pets aren't in close proximity during this process.
Happy firing!