Our process · Step 4 of 5
Kiln firing
How kiln firing fuses your printed designs permanently onto the ware – the final step that makes your decoration last.
The process
About firing ceramic ware
Firing onglaze transfers onto fine bone china is a specialised decoration process that happens after the glaze firing. A relatively low-temperature firing fuses the printed or painted design onto the already-glossy glazed surface.
- Happens after the ware has been glazed and fired
- A relatively low-temperature firing
- Fuses your design permanently into the glaze
Colour
How firing can change the colours
Ceramic printing is always an interpretation of your artwork, and the kiln plays a part in how the final colours come out.
Colour matching
Some pigments change slightly during firing, so testing is often needed.
Gold, platinum & silver
Precious metal transfers need even more controlled firing, as they're delicate and prone to discolouration.
Firing atmosphere
An oxidising environment is preferred to maintain colour integrity.
Reference
Firing temperatures
Firing temperatures vary depending on the ware you're using – see below for reference.
| Ware | Firing temperature |
|---|---|
| Earthenware | 800–820°C |
| China body (thick) | 820–840°C |
| Bone china (thin) | 820–840°C |
| Porcelain | 840–890°C |
| Stoneware | 840–890°C |
Built to last
Once fired, your transfer is set into the glaze and won't fade like some other printing methods. It will be dishwasher and microwave safe, providing the ware itself is. Gilded decoration is the exception – see our Decorating page for care advice.
Good to know
Firing FAQs
Why might colours look different after firing?
Some pigments change slightly in the kiln, and gold, platinum and silver are particularly sensitive. Ceramic printing is always an interpretation of your artwork – our designers adjust colours where needed to get as close as possible. See our Design page for more.
Is a fired design permanent?
Yes. Firing fuses the design into the glaze, so it won't fade like some other printing methods, and it's dishwasher and microwave safe providing the ware itself is. Gilding is more delicate and should be hand-washed.
What temperature is bone china fired at for decoration?
Thin bone china is typically fired at 820–840°C for onglaze decoration. See the table above for other ware types.
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