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                                            Metal Clay

About Metal Clay:

    What is metal clay? Metal clay is silver particles, binder and water, not to be confused with sterling silver, which contains silver and another metal usually copper. Metal clay is available in 6 to 45 grams, and price is market-based.* When metal (lump) clay is taken out of its package it is soft, moist and grey in color. It air dries so there is a limited time to work it, however, there are techniques to keep it moist longer. While the clay is still moist it can be stamped, reshaped, sliced, cubed, or rolled into a shape that is desirable, including rings. Then it is either air-dried overnight or forced dried via a food dehydrator or a hair-dryer, which removes any remaining water. After drying, the piece has only the binder and the silver left. At this point it can be sanded, refined and carved. Firing the piece in a kiln or with a small butane torch removes the binder. With the binder gone, what is left is pure silver (.999) and a one of a kind masterpiece! It truly is simple and easy, however, be aware - it can be extremely addicting.

*Example: 9 grams of metal clay can be purchased at approximately $12.00


Metal Clay Introduction:

    While metal clay is easy to work with there are some in and outs that will come in handy and hands on experience is helpful!

    Learn the various techniques and types of metal clay, how to fire with a small butane torch, where to get metal clay at the best prices, find out which organizations will suit your needs. Leave this class with a pendant or charm. Metal clay has the reputation of being “too expensive”; it does not have to be. Costs can be minimal and once set up with the basics making a one of a kind pure silver piece can be done in a matter of hours. Handouts come with the class. Books and samples are made available for study. Tools and supplies provided by instructor.


Metal Clay and the Naturals:

    Metal clay also comes in a paste form (used to join lump clay onto itself or other pieces), which can be used to cover organic objects. For example: leaves, paper, clay cork, paper clay, insects, etc. Clay cork or paper clay can be formed into a 3-D subject and covered with paste. The images are endless!


                                            Polymer Clay

    Polymer clay is made up of polyvinyl chloride and plasticizers. Once conditioned, it can be worked into just about anything; it is baked (in a toaster over) and finished. This is a very inexpensive and easy to learn craft.

Faux Polymer Clay Techniques:

    Polymer clay can duplicate just about anything. This class concentrates on the faux looks of leather, jade and raku. The leather can be made into a bowl or even a bookcover; the jade can be made into a stone and placed in a bezel; the raku can cover a switchplate or a small lamp. It can be placed in sterling silver or metal clay. It is endless. Supply list made available upon registration. Some stamps provided by instructor.