Invented in the early 1990s, “Metal Clay” is a relative newcomer to the jewelry making scene. The original version, “PMC” (or “Precious Metal Clay”) by Mitsubishi was made of fine silver, but these days there are several manufacturers of metal clay who offer the material in a variety of metals, including bronze, copper, steel, and more. My (current) personal preference is working with bronze and copper metal clay, but that can always change at a moment’s notice!
So what exactly IS metal clay? Quite simply, metal clay is a combination of fine metal particles, an organic binder, and water. It can be sculpted, carved, molded, and shaped like earthen clay, but the end result is very different!
Once metal clay is formed into the desired shape, it is dried and then fired in a kiln. During the firing process, the binder burns off and the remaining metal particles “sinter”, or fuse” together, resulting in a piece of solid metal!
After the firing process, the metal clay pieces are cleaned, patina is applied, and they are polished.
Metal clay is an incredibly versatile medium to work in. You can be as intricate and detailed or as simple and basic as you want. You can make pendants, earrings, rings, bracelets, sculptures…the only limitation is your imagination and design style.
My current approach to metal clay is to create affordable components that lend an artistic flair to finished jewelry designs without overpowering the finished piece.
My reason behind this is multifold: I love metal clay, but I also love beads and beaded jewelry, and I wanted a way to bring the two together. And, I find the meditative nature of “production work” to be very calming; while my hands create my metal clay components, my mind is free to explore creative avenues. My next “favorite” project idea often comes to me while I’m at my metal clay work table!
That was really interesting, Amy. I always wondered about metal clay and how it works. Do you need a kiln to fire the pieces? I actually have a couple of your pieces. Although I have them for quite a while, I haven’t made anything out of them yet. I just haven’t found the right beads to use. Keep on with the blog. I enjoyed it. Hope you have had positive comments about it.
Hi Sharon – I apologize for the delay in responding! Fine silver clay (PMC) can be torch-fired, but I don’t recommend it; it’s too easy to either over- or under-fire the piece, plus breathing heavy metal fumes isn’t healthy. The other metal clays do need to be fired in a kiln. I’m sure you’ll find the right beads soon 😀 !!!