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How to Heat Copper Powder

Melting copper powder on a metal is a process called enameling. A copper-colored powder used for this process is called enamel powder. Properly enameling the metal requires heat that can only be produced by using a kiln. The kiln is used to melt the copper-colored powder. To do this, you will require a metal and enamel powder you can obtain at most paint stores.

Things You'll Need

White paper
Liquid gum
Copper
Enamel powder
Sifter
Spatula
Nichrome wire tray
Bricks

Instructions

- 1
  Turn on the kiln and allow it to preheat to between 1,350 degrees Fahrenheit and 1450 degrees Fahrenheit. The kiln can take between 20 and 90 minutes to preheat.
- 2
  Place a sheet of white paper on a table or bench. Apply a coat of liquid gum to the metal with the brush.
- 3
  Set the copper on the sheet of white paper.
- 4
  Pour the enamel powder into the sifter, then sift the enamel powder onto the piece of copper. A thin layer of enamel powder should cover the metal.
- 5
  Lift the copper from the paper with the spatula and place it on the nichrome wire tray. Open the kiln door and place the nichrome wire tray inside. Observe the enamel as it begins to soften within three to four minutes of being placed into the kiln.
- 6
  Remove the nichrome wire tray when the enamel appears glossy. Set the wire tray on the brick to allow it to cool. The enamel will appear dark red and then change to its final color.
- 7
  Repeat this process to apply additional coats of enamel to the copper, if necessary.

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