Underglaze decals for ceramics are specialised decorative transfers used to add intricate designs, patterns, or images to ceramic pieces and to provide the upmost durability.
These decals are applied to the surface of the bisque ceramic piece (it is usually necessary to coat the decorated area with a biscuit filler prior to application). The decal is then fired to "harden on", followed by the application of the glaze and the further glost firing.
The main benefit of underglaze decals is their durability. As the glaze completely seals the colour, the process gives the ultimate resistance to continuous use.
The same restrictions of the ceramic colour palette apply to this type of ceramic decal. Bright pinks and vivid turquoise colours for example are not attainable. The underglaze colour range is also found to be the least extensive of all the ceramic colour decal systems.