Abstract: A method of producing ceramic articles with a relief image comprises the steps of providing a ceramic article formed with a relief image thereon, providing a planar transfer decal having an image corresponding to the relief image, perforating the transfer decal to form a plurality of perforations through the transfer decal, applying the perforated transfer decal to the ceramic article, and firing the ceramic article with the perforated transfer article in a kiln. A pin tool comprising an array of pins is used to perforating the transfer decal. The relief image of the ceramic article can be formed in a mold or by an impressing roll such that an internal angle formed by each element of the relief image with respect to a surface of the ceramic article is less than 50 degree, preferably less than 45 degree. Pressure is applied to the perforated transfer decal against the surface of the relief image of the ceramic article manually or mechanically prior to the firing step.