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Polymer clay, on the side please.

October 9, 2008 by Wendy

That’s the way it is for a lot of polymer clay artists. Those of us with some type of physical illness or limitation know exactly what I mean by say by saying “on the side please”. I can personally say that it’s not because we don’t want to clay. It’s due to , say the pain, or grogginess, lol. You know, the put the milk in the cupboard and not the fridge. You really wouldn’t understand unless you’ve been there.Hmmm…..you might understand, not fully tho. Well, I’m trying to get my ducks in out of the fog and start bringing some fun around here, I don’t think you come here just to see eye candy. You expect some opinions and smart aleck comments RIGHT ? ? Oh yeah, there’s gonna be…. prizes :):):):) There are also some other changes happening around here in the blog. But, I’m not sure i can elaborate on those details yet.

So, I’m going to take a couple, maybe three days off to pull everything together, But I hope you can understand, life certainly can put you down for the count on some occasions. I’ve had new meds added to the growing list and they don’t want to play nicely. It’s just a gotta get used to them thing. Well, lets hope the fight ends favorably, MY favor, that is !

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Comments

  1. Cindy Lietz, Polymer Clay Tutor says

    October 11, 2008 at 10:35 am

    Wendy I sure hope the medications start cooperating for you soon, so you can get back to the fun of polymer clay! And on the subject of smart alicky comments… that’s exactly why I come here! 🙂

    Take care of yourself, Cindy

  2. Mary Kaye says

    October 12, 2008 at 7:45 am

    Wendy, I was wondering what the heck happened to you! I’m so sorry you’re ill but glad you’re on the upswing; I hope the new meds help, not only so you can get back into the PC but back into everything else that had to sit to the side while you weren’t feeling quite right (yep, it’s something I *do* understand).

    Looking forward to your full, smart-alecky return :),

    Mary Kaye

  3. Wendy says

    October 12, 2008 at 9:55 am

    Thanks Ladies ! I appreciate the warm thoughts more than you know. What would I do without online “friends”. They’re the best ones, they aren’t at your home all the time, lol!!!!

    **Oh, and I am also glad you guys like my smarty pants attitude 🙂

    I’ll be back Monday, ready and raring to go !

  4. Shannon Williams says

    October 13, 2008 at 8:35 pm

    Hi Wendy,

    I totally understand. I started “claying” about 8 years ago, but have done next to nothing the last couple years. My heart was in it, but my body wasn’t. I suffer from back and joint pain, due to arthritis, and actually had to have major back surgery this summer. So, I know. I so hope to get back to it very soon. I really miss it.

    I hope you are able to get back into the swing of things, too!

    Hugs,
    Shannon

  5. Wendy says

    October 20, 2008 at 3:32 pm

    Oh Shannon! That’s tough. I hope the best for you and that you have someone with you there. It’s tough to be at a hospital without a loved one.

    Bless you and I hope you have a speedy recovery.

Have you read?

DIY Metal Clay: How to Make Your Own Silver and Copper Clay at Home

If you’ve ever dreamed of turning powder into precious jewelry with your own two hands, metal clay is pure magic. Imagine taking fine silver or copper powder, mixing it with a binder, shaping it like clay, and then—poof!—after firing, you’re left with solid metal jewelry.

While you can buy ready-made packs of silver clay, they’re pricey. The good news? You can make your own at home, and it’s easier than you think. In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to make homemade silver and copper clay, tips for success, firing methods, and a handful of inspiring project ideas.

What Exactly Is Metal Clay?

Metal clay is a mix of fine metal powder (silver, copper, bronze, even gold), an organic binder, and water. It looks and feels like soft pottery clay, but once it’s dried and fired, the binder burns away and you’re left with solid metal.

Think of it as sculpting in clay with a shiny, wearable reward at the end. Unlike traditional silversmithing, there’s no sawing, soldering, or hammering required—just shape, dry, and fire.

Why Bother Making Your Own?

  • Cost savings: Store-bought silver clay can cost $50–$70 for a tiny 15g pack. Homemade clay is far more affordable, especially for bigger projects.

  • Creative control: You decide the texture, flexibility, and firing strength by adjusting your recipe.

  • Sustainability: Making your own lets you experiment with reclaimed metal powders or even recycled filings.

  • Satisfaction: There’s something deeply rewarding about making the medium itself, not just the jewelry.

Materials and Tools

Here’s your basic shopping list for DIY metal clay:

  • Metal powder: Fine silver, copper, or bronze powder. Look for mesh size 325 or finer for best results.

  • Binder: Options include CMC powder (carboxymethyl cellulose), methylcellulose, or gum tragacanth. These help the clay stick together until firing.

  • Distilled water: Keeps impurities out of your mix.

  • Optional additives:

    • Glycerin for longer working time.

    • Tools: Ceramic or glass mixing bowl, silicone spatula, airtight containers, plastic wrap, and a small kitchen scale.

Safety gear: Wear a mask when working with fine powders and gloves if you have sensitive skin.

Step-by-Step: How to Make DIY Metal Clay

Step 1: Weigh Your Ingredients

A good starting ratio is 90% metal powder and 10% binder by weight. If your clay feels crumbly later, you can adjust by adding more binder.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Combine your powder and binder thoroughly. Sift if needed to break up clumps.

Step 3: Add Water Gradually

Using a dropper or spoon, drizzle in distilled water while stirring. The mixture should come together into a soft dough.

Step 4: Knead and Test

On a non-stick surface, knead the mixture like bread dough until smooth. Press a small ball flat—if it cracks, add more water. If it sticks, dust with a touch more binder.

Step 5: Store Properly

Wrap the clay in cling film and place in an airtight container. Refrigerate if storing for more than a day. Homemade clay dries out faster than store-bought.

Working with DIY Metal Clay

  • Keep it damp: A spritz bottle of distilled water is your best friend.

  • Use release agents: Olive oil, balm, or cornstarch stops clay from sticking to stamps, molds, and tools.

  • Texture play: Press lace, leaves, or rubber stamps into your clay for beautiful natural patterns.

  • Dry thoroughly before firing: Air-dry 24 hours or place on a warming plate until bone-dry.

Firing Homemade Metal Clay

This is where the magic happens—your clay becomes solid metal.

Firing Silver Clay

  • Torch firing: Suitable for small pendants, charms, or earrings. Use a butane torch and heat until glowing orange (approx. 650–800°C). Hold for 2–5 minutes.

  • Kiln firing: Best for larger or thicker pieces. Fire at 800–900°C for 30–60 minutes.

Firing Copper or Bronze Clay

  • Needs a kiln and activated carbon (to prevent oxidation).

  • Place dried pieces in a stainless-steel container, bury in activated carbon, and fire at 900–950°C for 2–3 hours.

Tip: Always fire a test strip first to check shrinkage and strength.

Finishing Your Pieces

After firing, your pieces will look matte and a bit dull. That’s normal! To bring out the shine:

  1. Brush with a brass wire brush.

  2. Burnish with a steel tool for a glossy finish.

  3. Tumble-polish in steel shot for a mirror shine.

Optional: Add patinas (like liver of sulfur) to bring out textures and shadows.

Project Ideas for DIY Metal Clay

Here are a few creative starter projects:

  • Name pendants – Stamp children’s or grandchildren’s names into small silver bars.

  • Nature impressions – Press real leaves, flowers, or lace into clay for organic textures.

  • Fingerprint charms – Perfect keepsakes for new parents or grandparents.

  • Beads and buttons – Shape little rounds for custom jewelry or sewing projects.

  • Earring drops – Roll thin sheets and cut with mini cookie cutters.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

  • Cracking while drying: Clay too dry. Add more water and knead again.

  • Warping: Clay dried unevenly. Always dry pieces flat on a non-stick surface.

  • Weak after firing: Not enough binder or under-fired. Increase temperature slightly next time.

  • Excessive shrinkage: Too much binder or too little powder. Stick to the 90/10 ratio.

Safety Tips for DIY Metal Clay

  • Always wear a dust mask when handling powders.

  • Work in a well-ventilated space.

  • Don’t use kitchen tools for food after mixing clay. Keep them separate.

  • Let fired pieces cool completely before handling.

Where to Buy Supplies

  • Online jewelry suppliers (look for “fine silver powder” or “325 mesh copper powder”).

  • Pottery and ceramic shops (for binders and carbon).

  • Craft stores (some carry small packs of CMC powder).

Making your own silver or copper clay at home is part science experiment, part craft therapy. It saves money, gives you full control over your materials, and opens up a whole new world of jewelry making. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll find yourself experimenting with textures, firing techniques, and even combining metals for unique results.

Metal clay is one of those crafts that bridges the gap between ancient tradition and modern DIY. So grab your powders, roll up your sleeves, and let a little alchemy happen right at your kitchen table.

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