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[December 2000]
Old and New Printing Gives Special Effects on Ceramics
An unusual combination of screen printing and dye sublimation decoration is said to have achieved a stunning decorative effect that comes alive on a range of promotional ceramic mugs. Makers TMC Coaters & Decorators (Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent, England) have developed the designs on their heat sensitive 'Thermochrome' mugs. The designs show a plain colour at room temperature and then reveal a 'hidden' decoration or promotional message once a hot drink has been added.
One design - which became known as the 'Fire' mug - illustrates the potential of the combined decoration process particularly well. In this case, TMC started with a white ceramic mug which was given a Thermochrome coating, then a clear protective coat to accept dye sublimation inks. These coats were individually baked at specific temperatures before the application of a dye sublimation image in a simple heat press. The image was taken from a photograph of a real fire to give a stunning impression of flames. On top of the flames (which remain invisible at room temperature) was screen printed the bars of a fireplace.
At room temperature, the 'Fire' mug is a plain blue colour with an empty fire-grate and a promotional message. As hot liquid is poured into the mug, flames appear to grow from the base of the mug and spread quickly upwards to fill the 'fireplace' with a living fire. As the mug cools down to room temperature after the drink is finished, the fire is slowly extinguished and the mug reverts to its original plain appearance with a simple promotional message.
TMC says that the element of surprise is the key to the appeal of these forms of decoration. By combining TMC's colour change materials and coatings with dye sublimation based decorating, any computer-stored image can be reproduced in lifelike detail on an expanding variety of products - from coffee mugs and coasters to tiles and clock faces.
ENDS