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.
