Matt colors are opaque and are usually used for backgrounds, in which
case they are usually applied by the dusting process, although they may
be used exactly as china colors are. After being fired the surface
assumes a velvety effect and looks like unscoured gold. Sometimes they
are used with ordinary colors. They can be mixed with them but when
used in this way they are inclined to lose some of the natural
dullness. These colors will stand an unusual amount of firing without
fading.
Matt colors can be mixed with white and used the same as oil colors.
If a fine bronze effect is desired, it may be had by stippling gold
over fired Matt colors.
It frequently happens that after these colors have been fired, they
will rub off, especially, if they have been laid on too thick. In this
case make a mixture of a small amount of vitrifiable china tint and the
Matt color, making a light wash, and this will fasten the ground. This
wash may be blown or stippled on. It may be applied with a shader if
the colors are not too soft.
Paste and gold may be applied over fired Matt colors. Roman or unfluxed
gold may be used over paste, but unfluxed gold must be used if applied
directly on the color.
As these colors are opaque no design will show through when fired.
Consequently if any design is to be applied to these colors, it must be
cut out. (See cutting out.) Vitrified china colors are used over fired
Matt tints—and silver can be used over Matt colors.
These colors cannot be used successfully on such articles as table
ware, as they will not stand a great amount of washing. They retain
grease, etc., and would soon lose their beauty.
Matt colors are made by adding a certain amount of oxide of zinc to
china colors. A little experimenting will tell the decorator what
proportions to use. Grind these well together with turpentine—and dry
before using. Different makes require different proportions.
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