PHOTO-CERAMICS WITH PYROfOTO

Pyrofoto is a process for firing photographic images and drawings onto ceramics and glass. Handle Pyrofoto sensitizer under dim room light, avoiding direct daylight. A safelight is not necessary, but for long periods of time as while the sensitizer is drying, near-darkness is preferred.

Pyrofoto works together with any liquid ceramic glaze. If using powdered glaze, first re-constitute the glaze with water to a thick consistency. Avoid watery glazes, since they will be too thin for adequate coating, or glazes with a low color pigment concentration as they will make a weak image.

Before use, mix one part of Pyrofoto with one part of glaze. Add water if too thick. Stir the mixture often during use.

Coat only on glazed ceramic or glass, as non-glazed surfaces like bisqueware will not develop cleanly.Scrub with powdered laundry detergent, rinse with hot water and dry. Brush or flow on a thin coat of sensitizer. After drying, apply one or more heavier coats. (Tip: also coat a few scraps to use as exposure test strips.) Dry thoroughly at room temperature, with a fan or hair dryer.

Expose through a high-contrast inkjet or laser transparency made on the “best” setting (see our website on making transparencies). As an alternative, a solid object such as leaf, key, etc. can be used to make a "photogram". Expose with a high-wattage halogen bulb like one shown on our website or a strong "work light" like those sold at home supply stores, or direct sunlight.

Normal exposure time is 5 to 15 minutes. Ordinary household-type incandescent bulbs will not give the needed wavelength and should not be used.

To develop the image, wipe or sponge gently with cool tap water to gradually dissolve away the unexposed areas. Do not rush this step by harsh brushing, as it may take several minutes for the image to appear. When fully developed, blot and dry. If desired, a second color can be applied and the process repeated before firing.

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