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Butane Torch Tips
New metal clay artists normally start by using a butane torch for firing. This set of tips will help you get the best from your torch.... |
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Why is newly fired silver metal clay white?
This is the surface of the silver before burnishing. If you could look at it under a microscope you'd see lots of peaks and valleys. This uneven surface doesn't allow the light to reflect so it appears dull white. ... |
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How do I get an iridescent patina on metal clay?
Liver of sulphur mixed with various other things will give wonderful patina to your finished work. Katherine Palochak has a recipe for iridescent patina on Ganoksin. You can also use liver of sulphur mixed with brewed (not instant) coffee. This has been used to create some wonderful colours.
Sometimes the quality of the water you use can also affect the outcome of your patina. Different minerals in the water can create some wonderful effects. ... |
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How can I reconstitute metal clay?
The great thing about metal clay is that if you don't like what you've created before you fire it, you can reconstitute the dry clay and make it workable again. This article from Maggie Bergman tells you one method for doing this.... |
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Where can I buy fine silver findings to use with my metal clay?
Using fine silver findings with your metal clay means you can enbed and fire them without risking fire stain or oxidisation that requires pickling after firing. Using sterling silver findings is possible but you will have to pickle them after firing. ... |
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Polishing
Tip on how to get a tumble polished finish without buying a tumbler.... |
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Which training course should I choose?
This is a difficult question to answer quickly. There are many training providers throughout the world, many of which have not had any formal training to train others. This doesn’t mean they’re bad teachers though. There are lots of very good teachers who have been working with metal clay for many years and have a wealth of knowledge to pass on to students. ... |
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What are the problems associated with quenching hot metal clay?
If you want to refire, enamel or solder on a piece of metal clay that has been quenched, you may find that moisture has got trapped in the metal. When you heat it again, especially if you heat it fast, the moisture turns to steam and may cause a blister on the surface. You need to dry the piece thoroughly if you have quenched the metal following the initial firing.It is also important to remember that you should not quench a piece which has glass or stones as part of the design. The sudden change in temperature from the firing to the cold water may cause shock and the stone or glass could be damaged or break entirely. Leave your piece to air cool, it should only take a few minutes.... |
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