Virginia, are the lusters you refer to the "Carefree Lusters" Thompson Enamels sells or the precious metal lusters like gold, platinum, etc.? Did you already know the Carefree Lusters are really mica powder in sheet form that you use like waterslide decals?

I've  used the Carefree Luster decals and mica powders on fused glass and on torch fired enamels. They give a muted, pearlized effect. The precious metal lusters are too shiny for me and remind me of fine china instead of enamels.

Hi Candy,

Yes, the "Lusters"  are from Thompson, and I was speaking about the Lusters in powder form that are in the same grouping with the decals. I have also used the decals.  I didn't realize that the Mica powder are the same thing as the Lusters in powder.  I thought they looked exactly alike in color and consistency.  I don't like the Lusters for the same reason you mentioned, so I thought the Mica would be a little muted.

Thanks for your reply Candy, and once again I have purchased another item that I won't be using much.  

Virginia

Virginia, I've seen a very tasteful use of the mica powders on the back of one of Jamie Bennett's enamel brooches: a fired brown enamel base layer painted with gold luster leopard spots with mica powder sprinkled over them, then fired. Most of the powder is loose and will come off after firing but some remains and mutes the gold luster. Keep meaning to try it but haven't yet.

Hello,

I was curious to hear if anybody uses mica powder in there enameled pieces.  I use the Lusters occasionally but found they are too vibrant for my taste.  So I bought the Mica powder to see what type of results they would give me.  

I am curious to hear if any of you have used, or use Mica in there work?

Thanks In Advance!

Virginia