A decal is a printed transfer that is applied to a glazed mug and then fired again so the design becomes part of the surface. Buyers usually hear two terms, on-glaze and in-glaze, without being told what the difference means for their product. The difference is the second firing temperature, and it decides how bright the colours can be.
On-glaze decal
An on-glaze decal is fired at about 800°C. At this temperature the widest range of ceramic colours is available, so on-glaze gives the brightest and most vivid result. It is the usual choice for logos, photographs and multi-colour artwork where colour accuracy matters most.
In-glaze decal
An in-glaze decal is fired at about 1,050°C. At this temperature the glaze on the mug softens again and the decal fuses into the clear glaze instead of sitting on top of it. Fewer colours can stand this temperature, so in-glaze designs are less vivid than on-glaze ones.
Side by side
| On-glaze | In-glaze | |
|---|---|---|
| Second firing | about 800°C | about 1,050°C |
| Where the design sits | on the glaze surface | fused into the glaze |
| Colour range | widest, brightest colours | narrower, less vivid |
| Typical use | logos, photos, bright multi-colour artwork | designs that should be sealed into the glaze |
Durability and safety
- Our decal mugs are dishwasher-safe and microwave-safe. The exception is gold and silver decoration, which should not go in a microwave or dishwasher.
- Our decals are printed with lead-free and cadmium-free pigments.
- The mug body is fired at 1,210°C and has low water absorption, so the glaze does not craze during the decal firing.
Where a decal can go
We produce every common decal type: a single logo, a full wrap around the mug, a whole-body design, decoration on the handle, decoration inside the mug, and gold or silver decals. We also do screen printing. A decal can be combined with other techniques on the same mug, for example a custom colour glaze with a decal logo.
Which one to choose
If colour brightness and an exact match to your artwork come first, choose on-glaze. If you want the design fused into the glaze and your artwork works in a narrower colour range, choose in-glaze. Send us the artwork and tell us how the mug will be used, and we will advise which method suits it.
Minimum order for decal mugs
The standard minimum is 5,000 pieces per decal design. For a new customer’s first trial order we accept from 2,000 pieces per design.
Quick answers
What is the difference between on-glaze and in-glaze decals?
The firing temperature. On-glaze decals are fired at about 800°C and give the brightest colours. In-glaze decals are fired at about 1,050°C, where the decal fuses into the glaze; fewer colours suit that temperature, so the result is less vivid.
Are decal mugs dishwasher and microwave safe?
Yes, our decal mugs are dishwasher-safe and microwave-safe, except those with gold or silver decoration.
Can a decal be placed inside the mug or on the handle?
Yes. We do full-wrap, whole-body, handle and inside decals, as well as gold and silver decals.
What is the minimum order for a decal design?
5,000 pieces per design, or from 2,000 pieces per design for a new customer’s first trial order.
Related guides
- Mug Decoration Methods Compared: Colour Glaze, Decal, Screen Print, Sublimation, Embossing and More
- Lead and Cadmium Testing for Ceramic Mugs: What Importers Need to Know
- Ceramic Mug MOQ Explained: Why Minimums Exist and How to Order Smart
Planning an order?
Send us your drawing, artwork or a reference sample with the size and quantity you need, and we will reply by email. Send an inquiry.