Wednesday, November 23, 2011

Understanding the Process of Enameling

!±8± Understanding the Process of Enameling

Different applications to art work has been developed through time, specifically to create unique textures and designs. A popular form that has been considered in art is enameling. This consists of a unique process that shapes glass and metals to create unique products. Defining the specific process of enameling as well as how it has developed through time is the beginning to understanding the uniqueness to enamel products.

Enameling has been traced throughout history, with some of the earliest remnants developed in Cyprus in the 13th century B.C. The enamel found consists of six golden rings that are formed around a glass material and which served as a decoration for the Mycenaean Tomb. Other early remnants of the inclusion of enamel became popular during the time of the Greek Empire in the 5th century BC. Gold jewelry that had glass enamel was popular during this time. The jewelry spread to Britain and other areas of Europe. By the 17th century, this was incorporated into artistic traditions, specifically with artists who incorporated it as a painting technique.

To create an enamel piece, one first has to have access to a powder that is developed out of glass. The glass is crushed into smaller pieces, all which create a powder that has a similar texture to sugar. The powder is used as the main substance on other types of materials, usually which is applied to metal surfaces that work as a mold for the enamel. After a specific shape or form is applied, then the enameling process begins. This includes heating the piece of materials at 1000 - 6000 Fahrenheit which is done with the assistance of a torch. This is done for 1-10 minutes after which time the materials cool to create the desired product.

The unique parts of enameling come from the artistic process that is associated with the making of the glass. There are several layers of the glass powder added into the main piece. These are applied with different layers of thickness as well as several types of colors. The enamel process is able to create the artistic works that are used and can develop into paintings, 3D objects, vases or jewelry.

The concept of enameling has been a main part of arts and crafts throughout the century. The process is one which creates a unique look to different pieces of materials. The process that is used with enameling is able to provide a specific contrast with the materials while allowing for an artistic display of different products.


Understanding the Process of Enameling

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Monday, November 14, 2011

The Best Cast Iron Cookware

!±8± The Best Cast Iron Cookware

In previous years the best cast iron cookware was the old traditional cookware that provided for long lasting pots and pans and with the proper care became family heirlooms. Cast iron cookware is not designed to be nonstick so you need to season it first before you begin to use it. They typically need to be seasoned with an oil baked at a low temperature.

This helps to ensure that the pan has oil deep inside the pores and therefore is less likely to have food stick. Some of the better cast iron cookware already comes pre-seasoned so they are ready to use right out of the box. The seasoning process tends to last for quite a while but needs to be repeated every so often.

However some things have changed since the old traditional cast iron cookware was introduced. Today some of the best cast iron cookware comes with an enamel coated surface. Many manufacturers of cast iron cookware offer them with a an enamel coating and in a variety of color choices.

Other advantages to the enameled versus uncoated cast iron is that the enamel coating makes cleaning easier and you do not have to perform the re-seasoning that you must continue to do for the uncoated cast iron. Also, unlike traditional cast iron, the enamel coating is a non-reactive surface so you can cook tomatoes, add vinegar and other acidic ingredients without worry and if nothing else the enamel coated cookware will not rust.

Another reason why this is the best cast iron cookware on the market today is that it is usually available in a variety of color choices for today's design-conscious kitchen. You can take this stylish enamel cookware right from the stove or oven and directly to the kitchen table or dining room because it is a great show piece, unlike traditional cast iron cookware which has a more rustic appearance to it.


The Best Cast Iron Cookware

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