Additives: Threads and Frit

 Glass threads, buttons, beads and frit: 

• Another way to get pattern is by using glass buttons and threads on top of your enamel. 
• Apply Klyr-Fire, then place the glass threads on top, and fire. 
• If you work with fused glass, you can also use some of the glass frit from that as well. 
• Buttons, threads, and frit have a higher flow temperature than the enamel, so they will be raised after firing. You can stone these down if you wish.
• Glass beads can also be fired in the same way. Seed beads in particular work well. 

Firing gemstones into enamel:

• Firing stones tends to change the color or crack the stones unless they are good quality, clean stoens that can withstand the temperature needed to fired enamels. Stones marked as cast-in-place are good stones to use. 
• The cracking and color change can give interesting results. Crushing cheaper stones or rough cut stones can get a great textured surface in the enamel.  
• Have a base layer fired. Klyr-Fire your piece and place or sprinkle stones over the surface. Fire. When the enamel gets to firing temp, the stones will sink slightly down into the surface which holds them in place once the piece cools. 
• In addition you can wet pack or sift extra enamel over the stones to further secure them. 
• Make sure to keep an eye on the thickness of the enamel- too thick can yield cracks and flaking.