You’ve pictured it: a fused glass piece with a perfect, shimmering pattern. But cutting those fine details from solid dichroic glass can feel impossible, right? What if you could essentially paint with that color-shifting light instead? That’s the creative freedom you get with dichroic slide paper. These amazing decals let you add complex designs with total precision—think delicate swirls or sharp geometric borders. They are thin, metallic coatings on a paper backing that transfer directly onto your glass, letting you add that magical dichroic effect exactly where you want it.

Key Takeaways

• Gain creative control with decals: They let you add the beautiful, iridescent effect of dichroic glass to your projects with incredible precision, making it easy to create detailed patterns that would be difficult to cut from solid glass.
• Master the application process: For a perfect bond, always start with a completely clean glass surface. Use distilled water to float the decal into place and carefully press out all water and air bubbles before it dries.
• Experiment with your firing schedule: Since most decals have no COE, they work with nearly any fusible glass. Start with a standard schedule for your glass type, but test different temperatures to achieve your desired effect and always anneal properly to prevent thermal shock.

What is Dichroic Slide Paper?

If you love the stunning, color-shifting shimmer of dichroic glass but want more control over your designs, dichroic decals are about to become your new favorite tool. Think of them as specialized papers coated with a thin, metallic layer that perfectly mimics the look of dichroic glass. These decals let you add that vibrant, iridescent effect to your glass or ceramic pieces without needing to cut and shape expensive sheets of dichroic glass.

This makes them an incredibly flexible and accessible way to achieve complex and beautiful visual effects in your fused glass projects. You can add intricate patterns, lettering, or delicate accents that would be nearly impossible to create otherwise. Whether you’re working with COE90 glass or another compatible type, these decals fuse seamlessly to create a professional and eye-catching finish. They are a fantastic way to add a pop of color and a touch of magic to your art, opening up a whole new world of creative possibilities.

How Does Dichroic Slide Paper Work?

The best part about dichroic decals is how simple they are to use. The process is user-friendly and doesn’t require a lot of specialized equipment beyond what you already have in your studio. You can easily cut the decals into any shape you imagine using scissors, paper punches, or a craft knife. Once you have your design, you just apply it to your glass and fire it.

Inside the kiln, the decal begins to bond with the glass surface at around 1100°F. The paper backing cleanly burns away, leaving only the shimmering dichroic layer permanently fused to your piece. These decals are tough and can handle firing temperatures up to 1500°F and sometimes even higher, making them suitable for a wide range of glass fusing projects.

Why Add Dichroic Decals to Your Glass Art?

So, why might you reach for a decal instead of a sheet of dichroic glass? The biggest advantage is creative freedom. Decals give you an easy way to achieve the beautiful look of dichroic glass with incredible precision. You can cut out tiny, detailed shapes or lettering that would be a major challenge with solid glass.

Beyond that, you can get really creative by layering different decal shapes or cutting them into thin strips and twisting them to create unique patterns and textures. This allows for a level of personalization that can truly make your work stand out. They are perfect for adding a high-end, decorative touch to jewelry, plates, or art pieces made with slumping and draping molds. In short, they offer a cost-effective way to add intricate, shimmering details to your fused glass art.

What Kind of Dichroic Decal Do You Need?

Dichroic decals open up a world of creative possibilities. Think of them as special paper coated with the same shimmering, color-shifting material found on dichroic glass, letting you add that signature look to your glass pieces without cutting expensive specialty glass. They’re incredibly versatile, coming in different formats, colors, and patterns to suit any design. Whether you’re working with COE90 glass or COE96, there’s a decal that will work for you. Your choice will depend on your project’s needs and the final look you want. Let’s walk through the main types to help you find the perfect fit.

Should You Buy Sheets or Pre-Cut Shapes?

Dichroic decals are sold in two formats: full sheets or pre-cut shapes. Full sheets give you complete creative freedom, allowing you to cut any design you want. This is your best bet for a truly one-of-a-kind piece. On the other hand, pre-cut shapes offer convenience and consistency. If you need a set of identical circles or stars, pre-cuts save time and ensure every piece is perfect. They’re also a great starting point for beginners who want to get a feel for the process without the extra step of cutting.

Exploring Different Formats: Sheets, Scraps, and Frit

While full sheets give you the most design flexibility, you can also find dichroic decals in other forms that are perfect for adding unique touches to your work. Dichroic scraps, for example, are fantastic for when you just need a small pop of color. Instead of cutting into a brand-new sheet for a tiny accent, you can use these smaller pieces to create layered effects, add details to jewelry, or design intricate mosaic patterns. They’re a great way to be both creative and resourceful, letting you experiment with different placements and combinations without committing a full sheet to the idea.

For a completely different texture, you can also find dichroic material as a frit. This isn’t glass frit, but rather finely crushed bits of the dichroic coating that you can sprinkle onto your glass. This format is amazing for creating a scattered, stardust effect or for blending colors in a more organic way. Imagine adding a shimmering texture to a bowl you’ve created with a slumping mold or giving a pendant a sparkling finish. Combining these different formats—a precisely cut shape from a sheet, accented with scraps and a dusting of frit—gives you a full toolkit for adding that magical dichroic shimmer to your fused glass art.

Finding Your Favorite Colors and Finishes

One of the most exciting parts of using dichroic decals is the incredible range of colors. They are often categorized to make choosing easier: “warm” patterns feature rich golds and coppers, while “cool” patterns lean into vibrant blues and purples. If you can’t decide, “rainbow” sheets offer a beautiful gradient of multiple colors on one decal. Beyond solid colors, you can also find decals with intricate patterns, like swirls or geometric designs, giving you another layer of texture and interest to add to your fused glass art.

Popular Patterns and Color Combinations

Beyond the warm, cool, and rainbow color families, you’ll find an amazing variety of patterns. Geometric designs like checkerboards and stripes are perfect for creating clean, modern borders on plates or coasters. For a more organic feel, look for nature-inspired patterns like leaves, flowers, or even animal prints. Abstract designs, such as crinkles and swirls, add a dynamic sense of movement to any piece. Think about the mood you want to create. A gold swirl decal on a dark piece of COE96 glass can look incredibly elegant, while a rainbow floral pattern on a clear base feels playful and bright. Don’t be afraid to mix and match, either—layering a simple geometric pattern over a solid color decal can create surprising depth and complexity.

Which Brands Can You Trust?

When you start shopping, you’ll come across a few trusted names. ProFusion Studio is well-regarded for producing high-quality patterned decals that add a professional touch. They offer a wide variety of designs perfect for artists who want consistent, beautiful results. Another favorite is Dicro Slide. Its biggest advantage is that it has no COE, making it compatible with most types of glass. This flexibility makes it a forgiving option for artists. It’s also simple to use and can be cut with scissors, making it a great choice for beginners and experts alike.

Applying Your Dichroic Decals: Step-by-Step

Applying dichroic decals is where the magic really starts to happen. It’s a delicate process, but with a little patience, you can get a perfect application every time. The basic steps are simple: prepare your glass, apply the decal with water, and let it dry completely before firing. Think of it like applying a temporary tattoo, but for your glass art. Getting this part right is crucial for a clean, professional finish, ensuring the decal bonds smoothly without any bubbles or blemishes. Before you know it, you’ll be adding intricate, shimmering designs to all your fused glass projects. Let’s walk through the process step-by-step to make sure your decals look flawless.

Step 1: Get Your Glass Surface Ready

First things first, you need a perfectly clean surface. Any dust, fingerprints, or oils on your glass can prevent the decal from adhering properly, which can lead to bubbles or even cause the decal to flake off during firing. Start by washing your base piece of COE90 glass with soap and warm water, then rinse it thoroughly. For a final cleaning, wipe the surface with a lint-free cloth and some isopropyl alcohol. This ensures you have a pristine canvas for your decal. Make sure the glass is completely dry before you move on to the next step. This simple prep work makes a huge difference in the final quality of your piece.

Step 2: Cut and Place Your Decals

Now for the fun part. Cut your decal out from the sheet, leaving a small border around the design to make it easier to handle. Place the cut decal in a shallow dish of room temperature water. After about 30 to 60 seconds, the decal will loosen from its paper backing. You’ll know it’s ready when you can feel it slide around on the paper. Gently slide the decal off the backing and onto your prepared glass surface. You can use a small, soft brush or your fingertips to carefully position it. Once it’s in place, use a soft paper towel or a small squeegee to gently press out any water or air bubbles from underneath.

Does Your Water Quality Really Matter? (Yes!)

You might not think the type of water you use matters, but it can have a surprising impact on your final result. Tap water contains minerals and impurities that can get trapped under the decal. During firing, these minerals can react with the delicate dichroic layer, potentially causing discoloration or leaving behind a hazy residue. To avoid this common problem, it’s best to use distilled or purified water. This simple switch ensures a clean application and protects the vibrant, shimmering quality of your dichroic design. It’s an easy, inexpensive step that helps guarantee a beautiful, professional-looking finish for your artwork before it goes into the kiln.

Firing Your Decals: How to Find the Perfect Temperature

Okay, let’s talk about the magic part: firing your piece. This is where your design comes to life. The key thing to remember is that there isn’t one single firing schedule that works for every project. The perfect temperature and timing depend on your kiln, the type of glass you’re using, and the final look you want to achieve. Dichroic decals are wonderfully versatile because they don’t have a COE, meaning they can work with almost any type of fusible glass. Think of any firing schedule as a starting point. Your best friend in this process will be a notebook where you can jot down what works and what doesn’t. Experimentation is part of the creative journey, so don’t be afraid to run a few small tests to dial in your settings.

Try These Firing Schedules for Unique Effects

The effect you want determines how hot and how long you fire your piece. For a smooth, fully fused look where the decal melts completely into the glass, you’ll aim for a top temperature between 1450°F and 1490°F. If you prefer a textured, more dimensional finish, a tack fuse is what you’re after. This involves a lower top temperature, typically around 1350°F, which is just hot enough to stick the decal securely without flattening it.

A great way to get unique results is by layering decal pieces. You can create incredible depth and color shifts this way. Always start with the recommended firing schedule for your specific COE90 glass and adjust from there based on your test results.

Setting Up Your Kiln and Cooling Down

Proper kiln setup is just as important as the firing schedule itself. Before you even start, make sure your kiln shelf is clean and has a fresh coat of kiln wash or is lined with shelf paper. When you place your glass in the kiln, try to leave a tiny gap if you’re layering pieces, as this can help any trapped air escape and prevent bubbles.

Always check the user manual for your specific kiln to find the best practices and suggested settings. Once the firing is complete, the cooling process, or annealing, is critical. Rushing this step can cause your beautiful piece to crack from thermal shock. A slow, controlled cool-down ensures your glass is strong and durable.

Are You Making These Common Dichroic Decal Mistakes?

Working with dichroic decals is incredibly rewarding, but a few common slip-ups can get in the way of a perfect result. The good news is that they are all easy to fix once you know what to look for. Let’s walk through some of the most frequent mistakes so you can get a flawless finish on your next project.

Mistake #1: Skipping Surface Prep

Think of your glass as a canvas. If it isn’t perfectly clean, your decal won’t stick properly. Oils from your fingers, dust, or any other residue can prevent the decal from adhering correctly, leading to peeling or bubbles after firing. Before you even think about applying a decal, you need to clean the glass surface thoroughly. A simple wipe with isopropyl alcohol on a lint-free cloth usually does the trick. Taking a few extra moments for this step ensures the decal has a pristine surface to bond with, giving you a much cleaner and more professional-looking final piece. It’s a small step that makes a huge difference.

Mistake #2: Getting the Firing Temperature Wrong

Your kiln is where the magic happens, but the wrong temperature or schedule can quickly turn a project into a learning experience. One of the biggest mistakes is ignoring glass compatibility. Always make sure your decal and glass have a matching COE, whether you’re working with COE90 or COE96 glass. Firing incompatible materials together is a recipe for cracked or broken art. Another key point is to protect the decal’s delicate surface. The metallic side should never be directly exposed to a flame or placed face down on a kiln shelf without proper protection, as this can destroy the dichroic effect. Following a tested firing schedule for your specific kiln and materials is essential for success.

Mistake #3: Common Application Errors

How you apply the decal is just as important as how you fire it. A common issue for beginners is trapping air pockets between the decal and the glass or between layers of glass. These bubbles can expand during firing, distorting your design or even causing your piece to crack. To avoid this, make sure you squeegee out all water and air from under the decal. When layering, try to avoid sandwiching small decorative pieces between two large sheets of glass, as this is a common way to trap air. Taking your time to smooth everything out ensures a solid, even fuse and a beautifully clear design.

What to Look for When Choosing Dichroic Decals

Picking the right dichroic decals can feel like choosing the perfect accessory for an outfit. It’s all about finding something that complements your base and holds up under pressure. When you’re browsing, a few key factors will help you select decals that not only look beautiful but also perform perfectly in the kiln. Thinking about compatibility, creative potential, and durability from the start will save you from any firing mishaps and ensure your final piece is exactly what you envisioned. Let’s walk through what really matters.

Checking for Glass Compatibility (COE)

The first thing to check is whether a decal will play nicely with your glass. This all comes down to the Coefficient of Expansion, or COE. If you’ve ever had a piece crack during cooling, you know how important it is for everything to expand and contract at the same rate. The great news is that many popular decals, like Dicro Slide™, don’t have a specific COE. This makes them incredibly versatile and compatible with most types of glass, including both COE90 and COE96 varieties. This flexibility means you can experiment freely without worrying about thermal shock ruining your hard work. Always double-check the product description, but choosing a COE-flexible decal is a safe bet for almost any project.

Considering Size and Design Options

Your creativity shouldn’t be limited by the materials you use. Look for decals that give you plenty of room to play. Most dichroic decals come in sheets, offering a blank canvas for your ideas. You can easily cut them with scissors, craft knives, or even decorative paper punches to create intricate patterns, letters, or custom shapes. This flexibility allows you to move beyond pre-cut designs and add a truly personal touch to your work. Whether you’re adding a delicate border or a bold centerpiece, having a full sheet of decal material lets you tailor every detail to fit your artistic vision perfectly.

How Durable Are They? Checking Heat Resistance

A decal is only as good as its ability to withstand the heat of the kiln. You need a product that can handle high temperatures without fading, blistering, or disappearing entirely. High-quality dichroic decals are designed to be tough, often withstanding temperatures up to 1500°F or even higher. They typically begin to adhere to the glass around 1100°F, permanently fusing into your piece as the temperature climbs. This impressive heat resistance ensures that your vibrant, shimmery designs will survive the firing process and come out of the kiln looking just as brilliant as when they went in. Always check the manufacturer’s recommended firing temperatures to get the best results.

Creative Ways to Use Your Dichroic Decals

Once you’ve mastered the basics of applying dichroic decals, you can start exploring more advanced techniques. This is where the real fun begins. Moving beyond simple applications allows you to add unique textures, depth, and movement to your work. Think of decals not just as stickers for glass, but as a flexible design element you can manipulate. By layering, twisting, and combining them with other materials, you can create truly one-of-a-kind fused glass art. These methods will help you develop a signature style and bring more complex visions to life in the kiln.

Try Layering Decals with Other Glass

Don’t be afraid to treat your decals like any other design element in your studio. You can layer the decal paper or cut it into thin strips to create intricate patterns and textures. Try placing a decal over a background of colorful glass frit to add sparkle and dimension. You can also arrange thin strips of decals alongside glass stringers to build geometric designs or flowing, organic lines. Combining these materials adds a professional touch and visual interest that a single decal on its own might not achieve. Experiment with different combinations to see how the light interacts with each layer after firing.

How to Twist and Manipulate Decals for Cool Effects

For a more dynamic, fluid effect, try twisting and manipulating your decals before you apply them. After soaking the decal, you can gently twist the thin film to create swirls and unique shapes. Some artists even use a gentle flame to warm the surface of their base glass before application. This helps the decal adhere smoothly and makes it more pliable for manipulation. This technique is perfect for creating abstract designs, mimicking the look of flowing water, or adding a touch of controlled chaos to your piece. It’s a simple way to make the decal feel more integrated with the glass itself.

Beyond Glass: Applying Decals to Ceramics

Did you know that the magic of dichroic decals isn’t just for glass? You can use them to add that same stunning, iridescent finish to your ceramic pieces, too. The process is very similar. You’ll want to start with a finished, glazed ceramic piece. Just like with glass, you apply the decal to the clean, smooth surface using water, carefully squeegee out any bubbles, and let it dry completely. Then, you’ll fire the piece again in your kiln at a low temperature, just enough to fuse the decal to the glaze. This technique is a fantastic way to add intricate, shimmering details to pottery, tiles, or ceramic jewelry, opening up a whole new world of creative possibilities for your studio.

Project Ideas to Get You Started

Glass fusing is an exciting art form that lets you create stunning designs by melting glass pieces together in a kiln. Dichroic decals can make your projects stand out with their vibrant, shifting colors. If you’re looking for ideas, start small. Decals are perfect for making beautiful jewelry pendants, earrings, and cufflinks. You can also use them to decorate small dishes, coasters, or suncatchers using pre-made slumping molds. For a larger project, consider creating a decorative tile with a complex, layered decal design as the centerpiece. The possibilities are endless once you start thinking of decals as a versatile artistic tool.

Where to Buy Dichroic Decals (And What They Cost)

Once you’re ready to start experimenting with dichroic decals, the next step is finding the right supplies. Knowing where to look and what to expect for pricing can help you budget for your projects and find high-quality materials that bring your vision to life. Several reputable online stores specialize in glass art supplies, offering a wide variety of decal sheets, patterns, and pre-cut shapes. Whether you’re buying a single sheet for a special piece or stocking up for future creations, there are great options available to fit your needs and get you started on your next fused glass masterpiece.

How Much Should You Expect to Pay?

Dichroic decals are a specialty item, and their price reflects the stunning, color-shifting effects they bring to your work. Generally, you can expect a single sheet of dichroic decal paper to cost around $25 to $30. While it might seem like a small investment for one sheet, a little goes a long way. The vibrant, metallic finish adds a level of detail and professionalism that’s hard to achieve with other materials. Think of it as the perfect finishing touch that gives your fused glass art a truly unique and eye-catching quality, making the cost well worth it for a standout piece.

Understanding Sheet and Pack Sizes

Dichroic decals are typically sold in full sheets, which gives you the most creative bang for your buck. A full sheet is like a blank canvas, allowing you to cut out any shape or pattern you can imagine with simple tools like scissors or a craft knife. This is perfect for creating custom designs that are truly your own. Sizes can vary, but you’ll often find sheets in sizes like 4×4 inches or larger. Some brands even offer variety packs with multiple smaller sheets, which are great for experimenting with different colors and patterns without committing to a larger, more expensive sheet. This flexibility makes it easy to add detailed, shimmering accents to your COE90 glass projects.

Our Favorite Places to Buy Dichroic Decals

When you’re searching for quality dichroic decals, it helps to know where to start. Delphi Glass is a popular choice, especially for its Dicro Slide paper, which lets you create intricate designs without having to cut glass. Another excellent source is Melt Glass Art Supply, which offers decals that are compatible with most types of glass and are easy to cut with scissors or a craft knife. For more unique options, check out ProFusion Studio; they carry a beautiful selection of patterned decals perfect for adding extra flair and personality to your projects. These suppliers are trusted by artists for their quality and selection.

Looking for Deals and Special Offers

Since a single sheet of dichroic decal paper can run about $25, building a varied collection can feel like a big investment. A great way to explore different colors and patterns without committing to a full sheet is to look for sample packs. Many suppliers offer these smaller assortments, letting you experiment and find your favorites on a smaller budget. It’s also a smart idea to sign up for newsletters from your go-to art supply stores, including ours here at ArtGlassSupplies.com. This way, you’ll be the first to know about seasonal sales or special promotions, helping you stock your studio with beautiful materials without stretching your budget.

Thinking of Buying in Bulk? Here’s What to Know

If you find yourself using dichroic decals frequently, buying in larger quantities can be a smart move. Keep an eye out for sales and special offers from your favorite suppliers, as this can make it more affordable to stock up on your go-to patterns or try something new. Sometimes, retailers will offer discounts on larger orders. For example, stores like Rocky Mountain Glass Crafts have been known to offer great deals, so it’s always worth checking in with different retailers to see if they have any bulk purchasing options or promotions running. This is a great way to build your supply stash without breaking the bank.

Your Dichroic Decal Toolkit and Safety Guide

Before you start your next masterpiece, let’s talk about setting yourself up for success. Just like any art project, having the right tools on hand and following a few key safety practices makes the whole process smoother and more enjoyable. Think of this as your pre-flight checklist for creativity. It ensures your work with dichroic decals is fun, safe, and leads to beautiful results you can be proud of. When you’re prepared, you can let your imagination take over without any preventable hiccups along the way. Below, we’ll cover the essential equipment you’ll need, how to properly care for your decals, and some important safety tips for a perfect firing every time.

The Must-Have Tools for Applying Decals

The great news is you don’t need a lot of specialized equipment to work with dichroic decals. If you have a basic craft setup, you’re likely already prepared. You can easily cut decal sheets using standard scissors, paper punches, or a craft knife, which gives you incredible creative freedom. Some decals, like Dicro Slide™, have no coefficient of expansion (COE), making them compatible with most types of glass you might be using, from COE90 to COE96. This versatility means you can focus on your design without worrying about complex compatibility issues. Just grab your favorite cutting tools and your glass base, and you’re ready to create.

How to Store and Handle Your Decals

To keep your decals in perfect condition, a little care goes a long way. Store them flat in a cool, dry place, like in a folder or a shallow box, to prevent them from curling or getting damaged. When you’re ready to use them, remember that the shiny dichroic material is exposed on one side. It’s very important to never expose this side to a direct flame, as it can damage the delicate coating. Handling them gently and applying them with the dichroic side up (or as instructed by the manufacturer) will protect their beautiful finish and ensure they fuse perfectly in the kiln.

Simple Safety Tips to Keep in Mind

Safety is always the top priority in the studio. Before firing, double-check the placement of all your glass pieces to make sure everything is properly aligned on the base. If you’re stacking layers, try leaving a tiny gap between them. This simple trick allows trapped air to escape during firing, which helps prevent bubbles or even breakage. And of course, always follow general glass safety rules: wear safety glasses when cutting or handling stained glass, ensure your workspace has good ventilation, and use caution when operating your kiln. A safe process is a creative process.

Understanding Shipping and Handling Regulations

Once you’ve created a beautiful piece, you need to make sure it arrives at its destination in one piece. Shipping glass art can feel nerve-wracking, but proper preparation makes all the difference. The most important step is to use appropriate packaging materials. Think bubble wrap, sturdy boxes, and plenty of padding to protect your work from bumps and drops. For particularly valuable or sentimental pieces, it’s also a smart idea to look into art shipping insurance. This gives you peace of mind, ensuring you’re covered in the unlikely event of loss or damage during transit. Taking these precautions protects your hard work and ensures your art is enjoyed for years to come.

Beyond just packing your art securely, it’s also wise to be aware of any shipping regulations, especially if you’re sending your work across state lines or internationally. While some rules, like the ASTM D-4236 labeling standard, apply more to material manufacturers, understanding the basics of what you can and cannot ship is crucial. Different carriers have their own restrictions, and international shipments often involve customs forms and declarations. A quick check of the carrier’s guidelines and any relevant regulations can save you a lot of headaches later on. This ensures your package gets where it’s going without any delays or legal issues.

Finding Patterns and Project Inspiration

Sometimes the biggest challenge is deciding what to create. The great thing about dichroic decals is that they can be a source of inspiration all on their own. They open up a world of creative possibilities, allowing you to add intricate details that would be impossible to cut from solid glass. Try layering different decal shapes to build depth or cutting a sheet into thin strips to weave together a unique pattern. You can also combine them with other materials, like placing a decal over a bed of colorful frit to add extra sparkle. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different textures and combinations to see what new ideas emerge.

Inspiration can also come from the world around you. Look at the geometric patterns in architecture, the organic lines of a leaf, or the designs in fabric. You can translate these ideas into your glasswork using decals. Simple tools like craft punches can create perfect, repeatable shapes like stars or circles, which are great for making jewelry or decorative borders. You can even look to other art forms, like the beautiful patterns found in traditional stained glass, and adapt those designs for your fused glass projects. Keep a small sketchbook to jot down ideas, and you’ll never run out of creative fuel.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the real difference between using a dichroic decal and a piece of dichroic glass? Think of it as the difference between drawing a design on paper versus cutting a shape out of colored paper. Dichroic glass is a structural component of your piece, while a decal is a decorative layer you add on top. Decals give you the freedom to create incredibly fine details, lettering, or intricate patterns that would be nearly impossible to cut from a solid sheet of glass. They are perfect for adding that shimmering finish with precision.

Can I use these decals on any type of glass? You mentioned some have “no COE.” That’s one of the best things about them. When a decal is listed as having “no COE,” like Dicro Slide, it means the metallic layer is so thin that it won’t cause stress or cracking when fused onto different types of glass. This makes it compatible with almost any fusible glass you have in your studio, including both COE90 and COE96. It takes the guesswork out of compatibility and lets you focus on your design.

What happens if my decal tears while I’m applying it? Don’t panic, it’s usually an easy fix. If you get a small tear while sliding the decal onto your glass, you can often use a soft, wet brush to gently nudge the edges back together. The seam will typically fuse and disappear in the kiln. If it’s a larger tear, you can either remove the piece and try again or get creative by patching it with another small bit of decal for a unique, layered look.

Will the decal have a texture after firing, or will it be completely smooth? This is completely in your control and depends on your firing schedule. If you want a perfectly smooth, glossy finish where the decal looks like it’s part of the glass, you’ll want to do a full fuse at a higher temperature. For a more dimensional effect where the decal sits slightly raised on the surface, a lower temperature tack fuse is the perfect choice.

Why did my decal design look faded or disappear after firing? This is a common issue that usually comes down to one of two things. The most frequent reason is that the decal was accidentally placed upside down, leaving the delicate metallic layer exposed to the full heat of the kiln. The other possibility is that the firing temperature was too high or held for too long, which can cause the thin dichroic coating to burn away.