Metal Clay
What is Metal Clay?
Silver metal clay is perfect for enameling. After firing, it turns to nearly pure silver. Gold metal clay is more costly than others. It gives a marvelous color and depth. Many designers use gold metal clay to place accents on other metal pieces such as silver. Unique solid gold items can be created using this clay.
Many sculptors, hobbyists and crafters make jewelry, beads and tiny sculptures using metal clay. Metal clay is made of tiny particles of metal that is mixed with a binder and water. Tiny metal particles may be silver, platinum, copper or gold. Bronze and steel are also available. Shaping of this type of clay is rather easy as it is soft. Upon drying, there are various techniques used in firing. Kilns, gas stoves or gas torches can be used for firing. Binders burn up during firing. This leaves a metal that is pure. There is some shrinking of the metal clay during the process.
Lump metal clay is available in sealed packages to maintain moisture and workability. Silver clay choices are usually a softer paste that comes in a syringe, jars of slip or sheets. Moisture has been removed from these selections.