Branding Guide
Firing
A specialist branding method that uses high temperatures to permanently bond decorated artwork to suitable product surfaces for a durable, premium finish.
What is firing?
Firing is a specialist decoration process used on suitable products where the branded design is applied and then exposed to high temperatures.
During the firing process, the decoration bonds with the product surface, creating a durable branded finish rather than simply leaving a layer of conventional ink on top.
This method is particularly associated with suitable ceramic and glass products where Firing is specifically offered as a branding option.
How firing works
The artwork is first prepared and applied to the designated branding area using the appropriate decoration process. The product then passes through a controlled high-temperature firing process that permanently bonds the decoration to the surface.
- 1
Artwork prepared
The design is prepared according to the requirements of the firing process.
- 2
Decoration applied
The artwork is transferred or applied to the designated branding area.
- 3
Product fired
The decorated product is exposed to controlled high temperatures.
- 4
Branding bonded
The firing process bonds the decoration to the product surface to create the finished result.
Best for
- Drinkware & selected hard surfaces — Particularly suited to compatible products where Firing is specifically offered as a decoration method.
- Permanent branding — A strong choice where durability and longevity of the branded finish are important.
- Corporate merchandise — Creates a professional finish suitable for branded drinkware and gifting.
- Logos & graphic artwork — Suitable for artwork that can be reproduced within the colour and detail limitations of the specific firing process.
Benefits
- Highly durable — The high-temperature process bonds the decoration to the suitable product surface.
- Permanent finish — Branding becomes an integral part of the decorated surface rather than a conventional surface-applied print.
- Premium appearance — Creates a professional finish particularly suited to quality drinkware and corporate merchandise.
- Designed for suitable hard surfaces — Provides a specialist branding option for products specifically manufactured or approved for this process.
Things to consider
- Firing is a specialist branding process — It is only suitable for products and surfaces designed to withstand the firing process.
- Product compatibility matters — Not every ceramic, glass or drinkware product is suitable for Firing, so availability varies by product.
- Colour reproduction can vary — The high temperatures used during firing can affect colour reproduction, so the finished result may differ from conventional printed Pantone/PMS colours.
- Branding areas vary — Available positions, branding areas and colour capabilities depend on the individual product.
- Check the product options — The available branding methods, positions and print areas are shown on each product page.
Preparing artwork for firing
Clean vector artwork is generally preferred for logos, lettering and graphic designs.
Colour reproduction requires particular consideration because the decoration must withstand the high temperatures used during firing. Because firing uses high temperatures, colour reproduction can differ from conventional printing. Where colour matching is important, we recommend confirming the expected result before production.
Fine details and very small artwork may also be limited by the individual product and firing process.
Not sure if your artwork is suitable?
Send us your artwork and we'll help determine whether Firing is the right branding option for your chosen product.
Where can my artwork go?
Available Firing positions and maximum branding areas vary by product.
Explore products available with Firing
Browse promotional products in the Ecosource range that support Firing.