Champlevé enameling – The chemistry of glass with metal

This ancient decorative technique, with origins stretching back to the Middle Ages, combines metalworking with brightly colored vitreous enamels to create intricate and captivating designs. During this course, participants will explore the history, techniques and creative possibilities of the Champlevé Technique.

Discover the rich history of the Champlevé Technique, a technique that has adorned artefacts, jewelery and decorative objects for centuries. Originating in the Byzantine era and flourishing in the Middle Ages, the Champlevé Technique involves the meticulous process of etching or carving intricate patterns into metal surfaces, filling the voids with colored enamels, and firing them to achieve a perfect fusion between metal and glass. This course provides an opportunity to bring this traditional art form back to life and blend it with contemporary artistic expressions.

Course Highlights:

This course explores the art of the Champlevé Email, guiding participants through a series of carefully crafted steps. Previous metalworking experience is required to ensure participants can get the most out of this advanced and intricate enameling technique. The course covers the following key aspects:

1. Metal processing by piercing:

Begin your journey by mastering the fundamental skill of metal cutting using stencil cloth. Learn how to work with various types of metals, select appropriate thicknesses, and practice precision cutting to prepare the base for enameling. Understand the properties of different metals and their behavior during the enameling process.

2. Welding Techniques:

Master the crucial skill of welding to join metal components perfectly. Gain knowledge about proper flame control, flux application, and achieving clean solder joints. Understand the properties of different solders

3. Cleaning Emails:

Enter the world of colored enamel powders. Discover the details of cleaning, washing and preparing enamels of different colors to ensure a flawless application.

3. Correct Application Techniques:

Learn the art of applying enamels to carved or etched areas of metal. Understands the importance of layering and achieving depth to create immersive visual effects.

4. Color palette:

Explore the captivating diversity of colors available in enamels. Gain knowledge about color theory and how different shades of enamel interact, allowing you to create harmonious and visually impressive compositions.

5. Combustion Process:

Master the essential firing process of your enamel piece. Understands the subtleties of temperature and time control to achieve the desired fusion between glass and metal while preserving the luster of enamels.

6. Finishing and Polishing Process:

Discover the transformative power of polishing and finishing. Learn techniques to enhance the luster of your enamel creations, bringing out intricate details and adding a professional touch.

We are waiting for you at the Champlevé Enameling Course from Artkimia to embark on a creative journey that reflects both tradition and innovation. Whether you are an aspiring artist, jewelry enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique creative experience, this course offers an opportunity to master an ancient technique and create timeless enamel pieces that reflect personal style.

**The techniques in this course are developed by Instructor Corina Gheorghe. The teaching methodology and the information about the design and creation of the pieces belong to ©Artkimia ™