Enameling is the art of fusing glass to metal at high temperatures. It is an ancient art form that has diversified from one technique to many over the centuries. Enriched by both artists and chemists, this is truly a remarkable art.

The word "enamel" has three meanings... the material itself, the process of using it, and the outcome of the process. In the words of the late contemporary enamelist Lilyan Bachrach, “You enamel enamel with enamel.”

There are many techniques that use this process, some defined by the way the enamel is applied to the metal, some by the materials used, and some by the metal preparation itself. The most well known technique is Cloisonné. While many incorrectly call all enameled objects Cloisonné, this is only one technique, although it is the oldest. See a glossary of enameling terms (as a.pdf file so you can view on-line, print or download for your personal use).

I have written three books ons enameling. Two are how-to books. The 2nd is a complete rewrite of the 1st. Read about The Art of Fine Enamleing, Second Edition, published in 2019.

I have also written the definitive book on enamel buttons: Enamel Buttons, An Essensial Resource for Collectors, published in December 2024. This book is essentially for non-enamelists. All the photos in the book are buttons, but the information is accurate for other types of enamelware, thus making it a good resource for non-collectors such as antique dealers. This is a teaching guide where each point discussed is illutrated by one or more button photos.

If you have any questions on enameling in general or enamel buttons, feel free to contact me.