🎨 Powder Coating Meets Enamel: My Week at Arrowmont

This spring, I spent an unforgettable week at the Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, diving deep into the world of Powder Coating. The program was intensive, hands-on, and culminated in a certification that affirmed my understanding of this versatile technique in jewellery-making.

But I didn’t go just to learn the basics—I had a mission.

💡 My Goal: Bridging Powder Coating and Enamelling

Enamelling has always been my first love when it comes to adding colour to metal. Its vibrancy and depth are unmatched. But Powder Coating intrigued me for a different reason: it can be applied to almost any metal and requires significantly lower firing temperatures. I wanted to explore how these two mediums could work together—could enamel surfaces support powder coating? Could they complement each other in design?

🔬 The Experiments: Testing Techniques

Throughout the week, I tested a wide range of enamelling techniques/supplies with Powder Coat products. I pushed boundaries, asked questions, and got my hands dirty (well, not just metaphorically). The results were nothing short of amazing. I discovered new ways to layer, combine, and enhance both mediums—opening up a whole new world of creative possibilities.

✨ The Takeaway: Endless Potential

Powder Coating is a game-changer for jewellery artists. Whether used on its own or in tandem with enamel, it offers durability, flexibility, and a stunning finish. I left Arrowmont inspired, energized, and ready to incorporate these techniques into my own work.

💬 Final Thoughts

If you’re a maker looking to expand your toolkit, give Powder Coating a try. It’s not just functional—it’s beautiful. And when paired with enamel? The results speak for themselves.