Clay Air

Top 10 Tips for Beginners to Precious Metal Clay Jewellery

Imagine making a creation in clay and then being able to turn it into a piece of fine silver? Well this is what you can achieve with precious metal clay (PMC). Developed in the 1990s PMC consists of a combination of binders and metal particles, which when heated, the organic binder burns away leaving only the metal behind. This process works best with purer forms of metal such as fine silver and gold as these resist the formation of oxides most readily.

The emergence of PMC to the consumer market allows one to produce fine pieces of metal jewellery without the need for a vast range of expensive tools or knowledge of traditional silversmiting methods. However there are a few pointers that all beginners to this craft medium must be aware of:

1. Working with metal clay should NOT be likened to working with polymer clay. PMC needs to be kept moist to work with, however once exposed to the air it dries out easily, resulting in limited working time. Therefore it is advisable to plan your designs carefully before you expose the clay to the air. Working out your piece on paper and in polymer clay can help reduce any unnecessary mistakes.
2. Ensure you are not working in a draft or using materials that will draw moisture from the clay such as paper or cardboard.
3. Apply olive oil or organic oil to your hands, the roller and surface upon which you are working, this will help to seal in moisture and avoid sticking.
4. To roll out metal clay use a length of plastic pipe coupled with spacers on either side to ensure uniform thickness. Playing cards are excellent spaces although you can purchase purpose made spacers from most PMC suppliers.
5. Don’t neglect the back of your jewellery, rolling out your clay onto a leather sample will ensure a consistent back texture to your item.  Clay likes texture and attempting to create a perfectly smooth surface is one of the hardest to achieve when working with PMC.
6. To achieve the neatest edge PMC should be cut with a knife, a tissue blade works best, although not suitable for use by children.
7. Remember that once e you fire your piece it will shrink as the organic binder burns off, so take this into consideration when designing your item.
8. There are many different types of PMC with different properties ( see later article for more information) relating to shrinkage and firing needs, make sure you follow the correct instructions for the type you are using.
9. Once you have completed your basic design, the clay should be dried in the oven or ona hot plate, after which you are able to sand edges and refine your design before firing.
10. Never throw away any metal clay even dried out clay can be re-hydrated or reused. Dust from sanding should be collected and used to make slip (clay and water solution used  to adhere joints; create texture; or repair cracks)

About the Author

Charlie Mclean owns and runs an online gothic boutique selling a range of gothic jewellery and accessories alongside Inflikted, Charlie’s own brand of handmade gothic jewellery and wedding accessories. Visit  gothic designs to view my creations or read my blog.

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