More Details
ASHLEY LOHR
TORCH-FIRED ENAMEL
ON COPPER
This Torch-Fired Enamel on Copper Premium Workshop introduces how to torch-fire enamel. Powder vitreous enamel is powdered glass that adheres to a metal surface when heated to 1500* Fahrenheit. Crafters will use copper as their metal and a butane torch to melt the enamel powder to the copper. Artist Ashley Lohr will walk through the steps of cutting out shapes from copper sheets, counter-enameling the “back” of copper shapes, cleaning fire scale, and designing torch-fired enamel jewelry and other pieces.
In the enamel workshop video, Ashley will introduce all needed materials, essential safety measures, preparation steps, and various options for creating unique designs. Each kit contains enough materials to make 50+ pieces depending on size and is designed to inspire the continued use of enamel in future projects.
WHAT IS ENAMEL?
Enamel is a powdered glass that is applied to metal, glass, or ceramics with high heat to create a decorative and durable surface. It's often used in jewelry making, providing vibrant colors and a glossy finish. The result is a smooth, hard coating that can be layered for intricate designs. Enamel is prized for its beauty, versatility, and the unique effects it can produce in various artistic projects.
TORCH-FIRED ENAMEL INSPIRATION
Torch-fired enamel on copper allows for the creation of a wide variety of stunning jewelry pieces. Artists can craft vibrant earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and rings, each featuring the unique, glossy finish that enamel provides. The torch-fired enamel technique involves applying powdered glass to copper and using a torch to fuse the materials, resulting in richly colored, durable designs. This method is particularly suited for making intricate pendants and brooches, where the enamel can be layered to produce detailed patterns and gradients.
Additionally, torch-firing enables artists to experiment with different textures and effects, ensuring that each piece is one-of-a-kind and highly customizable. Enjoy the process of creating beautiful, one-of-a-kind enamel, charms, magnets, wall hangings, mobiles, and more.
About the Artist: Ashley Lohr
Ashley Lohr, an artist and educator from Petersburg, Alaska, founded her jewelry business, TheRosieFinn, in 2019, creating handmade enamel earrings sold online and in Alaskan galleries. With a background in art education since 2008 and a master's degree in Studio Art from the Maryland Institute College of Art, Ashley's expertise spans painting and enameling. A pivotal 2019 workshop in Berkeley introduced her to torch fire powder enamel on copper, revitalizing her jewelry approach and saving her high school jewelry program by integrating enameling into the curriculum.
Ashley’s workshops in various U.S. locations focus on torch enameling techniques. Her jewelry has been featured in prestigious shows, including one with Andy Warhol artworks in Florida. She actively supports local galleries and maintains her school’s jewelry program. Outside her professional life, Ashley enjoys Alaskan outdoor activities with her family.
Through TheRosieFinn, Ashley aims to expand her reach and connect more people with the art of enameling. Her work can be followed on Instagram @TheRosieFinn and viewed on her website, TheRosieFinn.com.
We can’t wait to see how your enamel pieces turn out. Share your creative journey and finished creation with us by tagging @thecraftersbox + @therosiefinn in your social posts. Don’t forget to use #thecraftersbox so our community can also see your workshop come to life. Happy making!