Custom Decals on Enamelware: How Your Design Becomes a Fired-On Pattern

Short answer: Most patterns and logos on enamelware are decals. The design is printed on decal paper, applied to the product by hand and fired at high temperature, so it fuses into the enamel surface and lasts for years of use and washing.

Flowers on a casserole, a bird on a kettle or a logo on a camping mug are usually decals. For buyers who want their own designs, decals are the most flexible way to make enamelware unique.

What is an enamel decal?

An enamel decal is a printed transfer made with heat-resistant inks. After the product’s base and color enamel have been fired, the decal is soaked, slid onto the surface and smoothed by hand. The product then goes back into the furnace, where the decal is fired on.

How the process works

1. Artwork: you send your design or choose from existing patterns.
2. Color separation and proof: the design is prepared for decal printing and a proof is made.
3. Decal printing: the decals are printed on decal paper.
4. Hand application: each decal is positioned and smoothed by hand.
5. Drying and firing: the product is dried, then fired so the decal bonds with the enamel.
6. Inspection: each piece is checked for position, bubbles, missing areas and color.

See where decals fit in the full process in how enamelware is made.

Why fired-on decals last

• The design is fired into the surface, not stuck on top.
• It resists normal washing and daily use.
• It allows full-color artwork, fine detail and small text.

Where decals can go

Decals are used on mugs, casseroles, milk pans, kettles, storage jars, bowls and plates, and even on lids and handles. A design can be one small logo, a full wrap-around pattern or a matching set across several products. See examples in our enamel pots and enamel kettles.

How to prepare your design

• File format: vector files (AI, PDF or SVG) work best. High-resolution images can also be used.
• Colors: give Pantone codes for important colors.
• Size and position: tell us where the design goes and how large it should be. Curved surfaces need some adjustment, so we will send a proof.
• Body color: decide the base color, because it affects how the decal colors look.

Approve a sample first

Decal colors can look slightly different after firing, so always approve a fired sample before mass production. It becomes the standard for the whole order.

Sourcing enamelware for your store or brand?

Ningbo Yongjie supplies enamel cookware, kettles, mugs and tableware to importers, retailers, brands and gift companies in more than 20 countries. We offer 3,000+ styles, Pantone color matching, custom decals and packaging, and FDA, LFGB or other tests required by your market.

Browse our enamel casseroles and stock pots, enamel kettles and enamel mugs, or contact us for a quote.