Metal Clay Books

On this page you’ll find some of our favourite books. If there’s a book you particularly like, send us a review and let everyone know what you like about it. You can send your review from the contact page. Hover over the title to see more information from the books available from Amazon. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Some books on this page are only available from the author or specialist websites.

Content checked June 2021. All links open in a new window.

Allison Croat – Making with Metal Clay – UK Amazon link
Allison Croat – Making with Metal Clay– US Amazon link

If silver is your colour, you’ve found the right book! Making with Metal Clay has all the projects you need to start making your own stunning silver jewellery.  Projects range from the colorful Tutti Fruity Ring from silver clay master Lesley Messam to spring brooches and beautiful flowered pendants. There are pieces here that would make fabulous gifts, though you’ll have to make two since you’re sure to want to keep one for yourself.  So whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned silver clay artist, there are projects here to thrill you.

Barbara Becker Simon – Metal Clay Beads: Techniques, Projects, Inspiration (A Lark Jewelry Book) – US Amazon link
Barbara Becker Simon – Metal Clay Beads: Techniques, Projects, Inspiration – UK Amazon link

Fantastically detailed book. A must have if you love making hollow forms.

Bradford M Smith – Broom Casting for Creative Jewelry and Metal Work – US Amazon link
Bradford M Smith – Broom Casting – UK Amazon link

Some jewelry making skills require considerable time and practice to master, but others are quite the opposite. They can be learned quickly, produce beautiful results, and are just plain fun to do. A prime example is broom casting. It can be mastered in a couple hours to produce intriguing geometries that spark the imagination and challenge your creative mind, just begging to be designed into finished jewelry. Great way to use your fired disasters!

Carol Babineau – Metal Clay Beyond the Basics – UK Amazon link
Carol Babineau – Metal Clay Beyond the Basics – US Amazon link

Brilliant book covering 24 advanced projects. Great for increasing your metal clay skills.

Cece Wire – Creative Metal Clay Jewelry: Techniques, Projects, Inspiration – UK Amazon link
Cece Wire – Creative Metal Clay Jewelry: Techniques, Projects, Inspiration – US Amazon link

Great book for beginners to advanced levels. Lots of projects, clear instructions and good photos.

Cece Wire – New Directions in Metal Clay: 25 Creative Jewelry Projects – US Amazon link
Cece Wire – New Directions in Metal Clay: 25 Creative Jewelry Projects – UK Amazon link

Another great book from Cece. Well worth investing in.

Celie Fago – Keum Boo on Silver

The definitive book on Keum Boo, an ancient Korean technique for fusing thin gold sheet to silver. This book has been updated by Celie and is a perfect introduction to Keum Boo for beginners. A great resource for more experienced artists too.

Cindy Thomas Pankopf – Absolute Beginners Guide: Making Metal Clay Jewelry – UK Amazon link
Cindy Thomas Pankopf – The Absolute Beginners Guide: Making Metal Clay Jewelry: Everything You Need to Know to Get Started– US Amazon link

Anyone who has ever wanted to give metal clay a try will enjoy this third book in the popular Absolute Beginners Guide series. The first book in this series, Stringing Beaded Jewelry, won the 2010 IPPY award. Making Metal Clay Jewelry follows the same signature format as its predecessors, positioning readers to learn by doing as they take on simple metal clay jewelry projects that gradually increase in difficulty level. Now is a perfect time to introduce readers to metal clay with this signature series that focuses on positive results.

Cynthia Thornton – Enchanted Adornments: Creating Mixed-Media Jewelry with Metal Clay, Wire, Resin, and More – Amazon UK link
Cynthia Thornton – Enchanted Adornments (See all Metal Work Craft Books) – Amazon US link

Presented in the style of an artist’s journal, the book includes watercolor illustrations and enchanting design sketches by the author and is richly infused with quotes, tips and tricks. Discover the secrets behind new and innovative techniques for creating mixed-media jewelry with resin, PMC, polymer clay, wire, and more.

Deric Metzger –Natural Gemstones in Metal Clay. a Bench Resource Manual – UK Amazon link
Deric Metzger – Natural Gemstones in Metal Clay. A Bench Resource Manual. (See all Crafts & Hobbies Books) – US Amazon link

Natural Gemstones in Metal Clay Quick Field Guide is a guide book for Metal Clay artists. Inside, this pocket sized book details 107 unique natural gemstones and dozens more varieties of each.

Elizabeth Bone – Silversmithing for Jewelry Makers: A Handbook of Techniques and Surface Treatments – UK Amazon link
Elizabeth Bone – Silversmithing for Jewelry Makers: A Handbook of Techniques and Surface Treatments – US Amazon link

Amazon blurb – “A comprehensive guide, Silversmithing for Jewelry Makers details techniques, surface treatments, and innovations specifically designed for all jewelry makers working in silver, and especially focuses on the needs and interests relevant to metal-jewelry artisans. Explore basic skills as well as specialist techniques, including filigree, chasing, annealing, engraving, etching, casting, and much more.

Plus, profiles of contemporary practitioners are included in every section, along with galleries illustrating a range of beautifully crafted finished works. The handy resource section also features a how-to for selling jewelry in the contemporary accessories market. Experienced jewelry makers interested in either exploring silver for the first time or taking their silver jewelry to the next level will love this harmonious marriage between expert silversmithing advice and a jewelry artisan sensibility.

Gordon Uyehara – Metal Clay Fusion (Metal Clay Master Class) – US Amazon link
Gordon Uyehara – Metal Clay Fusion (Metal Clay Master Class) – UK Amazon link

Amazon blurb – “The first entry in the new Metal Clay Master Class series features the world’s leading artist in this versatile medium, which can be molded like clay, but after firing is pure metal. Gordon K. Uyehara will inspire jewelry makers everywhere with his working methods, expertise, and designs. He offers detailed instructions for 22 original projects using several types of metal clay, including silver, bronze, and copper. A handsome gallery of work demonstrates Uyehara’s skill and the extraordinary possibilities of the material.

Hadar Jacobson – Architectural Jewelry in Metal Clay – available now from Hadar’s website

128 pages, full color, soft cover, spiral bound.

The introduction to the book says – “To many of my students, “architectural jewelry” sounds intimidating. However, this book teaches easy ways to create the illusion of perspective, and shows how to construct complex pieces without using measuring tools. Indoor and outdoor scenes are created using techniques of hollow forms and low relief. Two projects – “A Room of My Own” and “Transamerica Ring” – are presented in great detail, so it is recommended to make them before proceeding to further pendants and rings.”

Hadar Jacobson – The Handbook of Metal Clay: Textures and Forms

The second edition of this book is out of print. This is a CD version of the book.

Over 40 step-by-step projects, 128 pages, full color.

The first edition of this book was sold out in less than three years. Since a lot has happened in the field of metal clay since then, this second edition was created as a revision and expansion of the first edition, to accommodate these changes. It is brand-free, and suitable for beginners and advanced users of both precious and base metal clay. The CD version is an exact replica of the print version. Each project is presented in PDF format, as are the title page, Table of Contents, and Index.

Hadar Jacobson – Metal Clay Practice

Over 55 step-by-step projects, 128 pages, full color, soft cover, spiral bound.

The book relies heavily on Hadar’s previous books: The Handbook of Metal Clay: Textures and Forms, Silver and Bronze Clay: Movement and Mechanisms, Mixed Metal Jewelry from Metal Clay, and Pattern of Color in Metal Clay, as well as on her blog and Instruction Manual.

Hadar Jacobson – Mixed Metal Jewelry from Metal Clay

The first edition of this book was sold out in less than three years. Since a lot has happened in the field of metal clay since then, this second edition, in the form of a CD, was created as a revision and expansion of the first edition, to accommodate these changes. It is brand-free, and suitable for beginners and advanced users of both precious and base metal clay. Each project is presented in PDF format, as are the title page, Table of Contents, and Index.

Hadar Jacobson – Patterns of Color in Metal Clay: Canes, Gradients, Mokume-Gane

55 step-by-step projects, 128 pages, full color, soft cover, spiral bound.

For a full description please download this excerpt, which contains the Introduction (“How to Read This Book”) and the Table of Contents.

The book relies heavily on her previous books: The Handbook of Metal Clay: Textures and Forms, Mixed Metal Jewelry from Metal Clay, as well as on her blog and Instruction Manual.

Hadar Jacobson – Movement and Mechanisms in Metal Clay Revised and Expanded 2nd Edition

Over 45 step-by-step projects, 128 pages, full color, soft cover, spiral bound. The first edition of this book was sold out in less than three years. Since a lot has happened in the field of metal clay since then, this second edition has been revised and expanded to accommodate these changes. It is suitable for beginners and advanced users of both precious and base metal clay. 

Hattie Sanderson – Contemporary Metal Clay Rings – US Amazon link
Hattie Sanderson – Contemporary Metal Clay Rings – Available in the UK from Craftworx

This comprehensive text is clearly the ultimate word on metal clay, particularly as it is used in the creation of rings. Over 700 photos illustrate the tools, pro- cesses, and stunning results available to aspiring artists. The instructional text would be a weighty book all by itself, but that text is augmented with 21 projects by the author and scores of rings made by craftspeople from around the world. Check out this video about the book.

Helen Breil – Shapes: 25 Inspirational Jewellery Designs in Polymer Clay

Written for all skill levels, this 180 page PDF book (20 MB) features clear step-by-step instructions and images that will help you master these 25 exciting and dynamic shapes (plus 37 variations!). With the same attention to detail as Helen has demonstrated in her tutorials and magazine projects, the multitude of images helps readers whose first language is not English.

Irina Miech – Classic Style, Fresh Look: Sixty Jewelry Designs to Make and Wear – US Amazon link
Irina Miech – Classic Style, Fresh Look – UK Amazon link

Classic and contemporary jewelry – both are showcased in Irina Miech’s amazing new book. A perfectly executed example of how the same technique can create two distinctly different styles, Miech clearly shows how the materials used determine the final look and feel of jewelry. Readers of all skill levels will enjoy 30 classic projects and 30 “fresh” variations – 60 projects in all! – using simple stringing and wirework techniques. The 30 beautiful jewelry projects in this book showcase a cool, elegant, classic piece and a fun, fresh, contemporary piece. Irina Miech shows how to create two distinctly different styles from the same simple technique for every project, making “Classic Style”, “Fresh Look” the ultimate “2 for 1”!

Irina Miech – Metal Clay for Beaders – UK Amazon link
Irina Miech – Metal Clay for Beaders – US Amazon link

Highly recommended book for anyone interested in making metal clay beads.

Irina Miech – Irina’s Metal Clay Collection for Beaders – UK Amazon link
Irina Miech – Irina’s Metal Clay Collection for Beaders: A Master Instructor’s Favorite Projects – US Amazon link

Irina Miech chooses her favorite projects from her four, successful metal clay books in this “best of” collection. She is also adding value with three new projects to the book, for a total of 23 great projects. Pendants, rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings are made from precious metal clay and combined with gemstones, pearls, crystals, and beads to make beautiful jewelry pieces. Easy-to-follow step-by-step instructions, detailed process photography, and Irina’s signature style set this book apart. Everybody will jump at this second chance to discover these wonderful designs, all in one book!

Irina Miech – More Metal Clay for Beaders: 18 Innovative Projects – UK Amazon link
Irina Miech – More Metal Clay for Beaders: 18 Innovative Projects – US Amazon link

Follow up book to the first beaders book. Great resource.

Irina Miech – Inventive Metal Clay for Beaders: Exciting Projects for All Levels – UK Amazon link
Irina Miech – Inventive Metal Clay for Beaders: Exciting Projects for All Levels – US Amazon link

Irina’s latest book, highly recommended by those who bought the first two books.

Irina Meich – Metal Clay Rings: Silver Jewelry Inspired by Nature– US Amazon link
Irina Miech – Metal Clay Rings: Silver Jewelry Inspired by Nature– UK Amazon link

No metalsmithing required! Easy-to-use metal clay makes the creation of fine silver jewelry possible to a huge audience of crafters and beaders. Metal Clay Rings presents step-by-step instructions for making 18 beautifully designed, wearable rings. Irina Miech applies techniques from her popular, earlier books to ring making and shares all-new project ideas. You will be amazed by the wide repertoire of skills you can develop as the projects move from easy to challenging.

Jackie Truty – Metal Clay: The Complete Guide: Innovative Techniques to Inspire Any Artist – UK Amazon link
Jackie Truty – Metal Clay The Complete Guide: Innovative Techniques to Inspire Any Artist – US Amazon link

Great book for beginners and the more advanced too. The format of this book allows it to open flat so you can keep it open on your bench while you follow the instructions. Covers all the main things you want to know and some you didn’t know you needed!

Jackie Truty and Sabine Alienor Singery – Bijoux en pâte d’argent : Techniques et création – UK Amazon Link
Jackie Truty and Sabine Alienor Singery- Bijoux en pâte d’argent : Techniques et création – US Amazon Link
Jackie Truty and Sabine Alienor Singery – Bijoux en pate d’agent: Techniques et Creation – French Amazon Link

Souple comme de la pâte à modeler, la pâte d’argent a la formidable capacité de devenir dure ” comme du fer “. une fois cuite. Grâce à cet ouvrage de référence, vous apprendrez à travailler ce matériau d’exception, du choix du matériel à la création de bijoux uniques. L’auteur vous guide progressivement dans l’apprentissage des techniques. Elle vous initie aux bases : moulage, sculpture, séchage, ponçage, cuisson et polissage. Puis vous révèle des techniques plus poussées : sertissage de perles, réalisation d’apprêts, mélange et assemblage à d’autres métaux (cuivre, laiton, or), association de l’argent à d’autres matériaux (verre, émaux, pâte polymère, céramique, perles, résines…). Au-delà de la pâte d’argent, ce sont toutes les pâtes de métal qui sont abordées, notamment la pâte d’or. En fin d’ouvrage, quatre réalisations de difficulté croissante sont détaillées pas à pas.

Jeannette Landenwitch – Setting Stones in Metal Clay – US Amazon link
Jeannette Landenwitch – Setting Stones in Metal Clay – UK Amazon link

This book by Jeanette Landenwitch, Executive Director of the PMC Guild in the USA is available from Amazon. It is packed with information about setting all kinds of stones in metal clay. Lots of great illustrations too.

Julia Rai – Making Metal Clay Jewellery – UK Amazon Link
Julia Rai – Making Metal Clay Jewellery – US Amazon Link

Silver metal clay is an accessible, easy to use material that allows unique, hallmark-quality jewellery to be made at home with simple tools. This practical book introduces the various forms of silver metal clay and their relative merits. Packed with images; seventeen step-by-step projects; full instruction and advice, Making Metal Clay Jewellery is an invaluable resource for all jewellers who want to learn and develop their skills with this versatile material.

Kate McKinnon – Sculptural Metal Clay Jewelry: Techniques and Explorations– Amazon US link
Kate McKinnon – Sculptural Metal Clay Jewelry – Amazon UK link

Beginning with an overview of the properties of metal clay, including safety information and metalsmithing terms, this thorough resource offers detailed procedures for creating a variety of components, settings, findings, attachments, 3-D forms, and textured effects. Each technique is shown with step-by-step photography to make it easy for jewelry makers at the advanced beginner to intermediate levels to learn the art of metal clay, while the enclosed DVD offers the opportunity to see the author’s signature style in action. The 12 unique projects within have multiple components made from metal clay, including clasps, chains, and settings; moveable and removable pieces; unusual textures and patinas; and unique construction and engineering. Creative tips on incorporating beads are also included. This handbook offers jewelry artists the design inspiration needed to create gallery-level pieces that are truly wearable art.

Katie Baum, Judi L. Hendricks – Silver Clay Keepsakes: Family-Friendly Projects – UK Amazon link
Katie Baum, Judi L. Hendricks – Silver Clay Keepsakes: Family-Friendly Projects – US Amazon link

Making jewelry ia fun and satisfying, and one needn’t be a silversmith to create great pieces. Silver Clay Keepsakes shows crafters and DIYers how to replicate the look of fine silver through a method that’s far easier to master than traditional metalwork — and that uses a material that’s both easier to obtain and easier on the wallet. The book’s 24 projects celebrate the spirit of life: a silver baby spoon, a silver-painted piggy bank, personalized cake-serving utensils, cufflinks and money clips, a fashionable take on the dog tag, a Celtic knot pendant, a birthstone bracelet, and other elegant, meaningful tokens for new parents, grandparents, teens, graduates, newlyweds, and even the family pet. Illustrated with 400 easy-to-follow color instructions, the book covers the basics of working with metal clay, along with info on necessary tools, firing and drying schedules, torch and stove-top firing, online resources, and much more.

Kristal Wick – Metal Clay 101 for Beaders: Create Custom Findings, Beads, Embellishments & Charms – UK Amazon Link
Kristal Wick – Metal Clay 101 for Beaders: Create Custom Findings, Beads, Embellishments & Charms – US Amazon Link

Beaders eager to add metal clay to their arsenal of crafting techniques will find this second entry in the 101 for Beaders series perfectly designed to meet their needs. Kristal Wick, one of the best names in craft jewelry, explains how to use copper, silver, and bronze metal clay to create simple customized embellishments, findings that match their beads, and a variety of spacers, bead caps, dangles, and links. In addition to the basics of forming, firing, and finishing the clay, more than 20 inspiring projects combine metal clay components with gorgeous beads.

Linda Kaye-Moses – Pure Silver Metal Clay Beads: Techniques and Inspiration for Making Pure Silver Beads (Jewelry Arts Workshop) – US Amazon link
Linda Kaye-Moses – Metal Clay: Techniques and Inspirations for Making Pure Silver Beads (Jewelry Arts Workshop) – UK Amazon link

Precious metal clay (PMC) is an innovative material that combines the workability of clay with the beautiful finish and durability of precious metals. The material is easy to manipulate and shape by hand to make beads for bracelets, necklaces, and other jewelry. This book contains fifteen projects for creating fine silver beads and a design gallery of 25 additional jewelry pieces. Intro chapters include information about tools and techniques. Projects are organized workshop-style, to build skills cumulatively.

Lisa Barth – Designing From The Stone: Design Techniques for Bezel Setting in Metal Clay Using the Stone as Inspiration – US Amazon Link
Lisa Barth – Designing From The Stone: Design Techniques for Bezel Setting in Metal Clay Using the Stone as Inspiration – UK Amazon Link

Designing From the Stone defines the technique of bezel setting with metal clay and teaches how to “listen to the stone” before you design the setting. Design principles are applied and illustrated to help you learn to think like a designer and respond to what is inherently offered in the stone. The goal is to create harmony and unity between the stone and the metal setting.

Louise Duhamel – Metal Clay Jewelry: Projects, Techniques, Embellishments – UK Amazon link
Louise Duhamel – Metal Clay Jewelry: Projects. Techniques. Inspirations. – US Amazon link

Great beginners book covering all the basic techniques with clear instructions. Projects are well illustrated and easy to follow.

Marlene Richey – Profiting by Design: A Jewelry Maker’s Guide to Business Success – US Amazon link
Marlene Richey – Profiting by Design: a Jewelry Maker’s Guide to Business Success – UK Amazon link

This book comes highly recommended for anyone interested in making their jewelry hobby into a business.

Marthe Le Van – 30-Minute Bracelets: 60 Quick & Creative Projects for Jewelers (30-Minute Series) – US Amazon link
Marthe Le Van – 30-Minute Bracelets: 60 Quick & Creative Projects for Jewelers – UK Amazon link

We live in a hurry-up world-so busy crafters will find these quick, inventive ideas for creating spectacular jewelry a godsend. The newest entry in the popular 30-Minute Series offers 60 exciting designs for bracelets, bangles, and cuffs, all featuring easy-to-follow instructions with no more than ten steps. Showcasing everything from pink pearls and sterling silver to nontraditional and repurposed materials, these varied projects are fresh, fantastic, and fun.

Mary Wohlgemuth – Metal Clay and Color: Inventive Techniques from 20 Jewelry Designers – US Amazon link
Mary Wohlgemuth – Metal Clay & Color: Inventive Techniques from 20 Jewelry Designers – UK Amazon link

Metal Clay & Color explores adding color to metal clay jewelry in novel ways. Twenty top designers are working with all kinds of metal clay, various forms of silver, bronze, and copper, and adding different elements to add color to the projects. The 25 projects in this book include color with polymer clay, colored ceramics, patinas, resin, gemstones, seed beads, enamel, and more. All techniques are presented with step-by-step instructions and photographs. These well recognized contributors bring an eye-candy appeal to metal!

Melanie Blaikie – Silver Clay Workshop – UK Amazon link
Melanie Blaikie – Silver Clay Workshop – US Amazon link

If you love silver jewellery but don’t have the time or patience to learn traditional silver-smithing techniques, then the exciting medium of silver clay will open up a whole new range of possibilities to your jewellery making. Boasting all the same properties as modelling clay, it is 99.9% pure silver, meaning that you can make high-quality jewellery using the easiest of techniques. This handy new book is perfect for anyone taking their first steps with this rewarding craft. Get stuck in to the varied series of 22 projects that show perfectly the versatility of silver clay. Shape, roll, cut, mould and indent your way through them, learning the basics as you go with the help of a jargon-free techniques section. From pendants and bracelets to rings and statement beads, there will be something for everyone.

Nana V Mizushima – Fine Silver by Hand – Introductory silver jewelry projects using low-fire metal clay – UK Amazon link
Nina V Mizushima – Fine Silver By Hand: Introductory Silver Jewelry Projects Using Low-Fire Metal Clay – US Amazon link

Fine Silver By Hand is a compact 72 page book to slip into the toolbox of those new to metal clay. Illustrated with hundreds of color photos and filled with concise information, the book introduces the easiest way to work with fine silver using only handtools and portable firing methods (no electricity needed!) Featuring five beautiful projects – “Ancient” Coin, Teardrop Pendant, Textured Ornament, Molded Objet D’art and Silver Leaves. The techniques, materials and tools are all presented for anyone with no jewelry experience. Nana has also taught on the popular Jewelry Making Show on the DIY television network. See diynet.com for current show listings. Detailed information on techniques, suppliers, resources and websites are also included.

Nana V Mizushima – Metal Clay Magic: Making Silver Jewelry the Easy Way – UK Amazon link
Nana V Mizushima – Metal Clay Magic: Making Silver Jewelry the Easy Way – US Amazon link

This book has a chapter on making origami jewelry using metal clay sheet.

Natalia Colman – Silver Clay with Style – UK Amazon link
Natalia Colman – Silver Clay with Style: 22 Unique & Stylish Silver Clay Jewellery Projects to Make, Wear & Enjoy! – US Amazon link

Amazon blurb – “This book is aimed at anyone who wishes to make jewellery using silver clay and to be inspired with a wide variety of different projects using a whole host of new and interesting techniques. Projects range from simple, easy to make jewellery aimed at the complete beginner, to more complex projects that will challenge anyone who already has experience of working with metal clay. Each project is accompanied by full step-by-step instructions and each step is fully illustrated with beautiful photographs by professional photographer, David Airey.”

Natalia Colman – Metal Clay Jewellery  – UK Amazon link
Natalia Colman – Metal Clay Jewellery – USA Amazon link

This gorgeous guide to metal clay jewellery, written by jewellery designer Natalia Colman, features silver, copper and bronze clays. The book is divided up by technique, such as ‘Making connections after firing’, ‘Setting stones’ and ‘Working with colour’. It contains 17 jewellery projects including rings, pendants, earrings, bracelets and decorative clasps: it is thorough enough to lead a beginner through the process from start to finish, but innovative enough to inspire even experienced jewellery-makers. Many of the projects include ideas for adapting the project or producing it in other metals. Natalia uses the clays in often new and innovative ways, such as using hand-drawn scratch-foam reliefs to create texture, oven-bake enamel to create colour, and, for those who like to adapt their jewellery according to their mood, she uses nuts and bolts to create a stunning ring with interchangeable heads. The book also contains a reference section at the back including firing guides for a large range of gemstones, ensuring that the reader is well-equipped to go on to design and make exactly the kind of jewellery they want.

Natalia Colman – Metal Clay Animal Jewellery: 20 Striking Projects in Silver, Copper and Bronze – Amazon UK Link
Natalia Colman – Metal Clay Animal Jewellery: 20 striking projects in silver, copper and bronze – Amazon USA Link

This gorgeous guide to metal clay jewellery, written by jewellery designer Natalia Colman, is innovative, inspiring and easy-to-use. It guides the reader through the process of making 20 animal-themed pieces of jewellery from silver, copper and bronze clay. The book contains a mix of rings, pendants, earrings and bracelets and is divided into five animal-themed sections: ‘Perfect Pets’, ‘In the Jungle’, ‘Feathered Friends’, ‘Beneath the Ocean Waves’ and ‘Other Beautiful Creatures’. It features stunning designs incorporating household favourites such as cats, dogs and rabbits, as well as featuring fashion-forward pieces such as a swallow ring, a bull pendant and a swan brooch.

Pam East – Enameling on Metal Clay: Innovative Jewelry Projects– UK Amazon link
Pam East – Enameling on Metal Clay – US Amazon link

Great book focusing on enameling on metal clay. This is the only book covering this subject and is a basic and comprehensive introduction to enameling.

Patricia Kimle – Perfectly Paired: Designing Jewelry With Polymer and Metal Clays – US Amazon link
Patricia Kimle – Perfectly Paired: Designing Jewelry with Polymer and Metal Clays – UK Amazon link

Each stunning project in Perfectly Paired: Designing Jewelry with Polymer and Metal Clays explores the interplay of textures and colors by combining two beautiful media: polymer clay and metal clay. Clear, concise writing and thorough step-by-step photos make rich inspiration for aspiring polymer or metal clay artists. The elegant jewelry pieces laid out here include pendants, necklaces, earrings, bracelets, pins, and charms. More than 20 sophisticated projects include variations and ideas that showcase each medium at its best.

Patrik Kusek – Woodland Chic: Metal Clay Jewelry As Nature Intended – US Amazon link
Patrik Kusek – Woodland Chic: Metal Clay Jewelry As Nature Intended – UK Amazon link

Award winning jewelry designer, metal clay artist and Rio Grande Senior Instructor, Patrik Kusek, shows step-by-step how to create sophisticated, nature-inspired jewelry with metal clay. The book highlights some of Patrik’s most favorite projects in metal clay, all based on the “Woodland Chic” theme: a sophisticated blend where forest meets high fashion. There are a variety of different projects in “Woodland Chic”, ranging from simple yet stunning projects suitable for those new to the art of metal clay, to more complex projects for the seasoned artist. You’ll learn many valuable metal clay jewelry making techniques with the projects and numerous bonus features. Plus, readers can find videos of inside information and tips about metal clay and Woodland Chic projects at the Woodland Chic website. Discover how satisfying it is to make beautiful metal clay jewelry with “Woodland Chic” style.

Pretty Pendants – US Amazon Kindle Edition
Pretty Pendants – UK Amazon Kindle Edition

Let your personality shine with Pretty Pendants! Each of the pieces featured in this book will bring a bit of bling to your beaded creations. With projects from expert beaders, you will be guided along with step-by-step tutorials that lead to a stunning finished piece, perfect for a necklace, earrings, or even brooch.  No matter your beading fancy, be it wirework or polymer clay, you will find something to love in Pretty Pendants.

Ray Hemachandra and Kristina Logan – 1000 Beads (500) – UK Amazon link
Ray Hemachandra and Kristina Logan – 1000 Beads (500 Series)– US Amazon link

Celebrate the innovation and creative inspiration of contemporary beadmakers from around the world! This gorgeous volume in the popular Showcase series presents 1,000 unique beads, all handcrafted from a dazzling array of materials—including glass, polymer clay, ceramics, metal, paper, fiber, plastic, wood, and stone. Each one is a magnificent piece of art, whether on its own or in a piece of jewelry or other ornamentation.

Robert Dancik – Amulets and Talismans: Simple Techniques for Creating Meaningful Jewelry – UK Amazon link
Robert Dancik – Amulets and Talismans: Simple Techniques for Creating Meaningful Jewelry – US Amazon link

This masterfully written in-depth guide is virtually like owning two books in one. Robert’s hands-on and personal approach to teaching shines through in his soon to be released paperback.  Not only will you be given the guidance and insight to create jewelry that is embedded with personal meaning, but Amulets and Talismans also features extensive instruction on a wide variety of cold-connection techniques that can be applied to any style of jewelry making.. He offers suggestions on incorporating found objects, personal mementos and more into one-of-a-kind pieces of art.

Sabine Alienor Singery – Bijoux créatifs en pâte d’argent – UK Amazon link
Sabine Alienor Singery – Bijoux Creatifs en Pâte d’Argent – French Amazon link

Découvrez la magie de la pâte d’argent avec une passionnée qui vous présente les différentes techniques pour réaliser vous-même tous vos bijoux en argent pur : parure, pendentif, bracelet, bague, bijou de sac, broche, cabochon, croix celtique… Page après page, découvrez les matériaux et outils, les étapes de la fabrication, du modelage, du gravage, du séchage, de l’affinage, de la cuisson, de la finition en passant par les multiples combinaisons qui feront de vos créations des pièces uniques!

Sabine Alienor Singery – La magie des bijoux en pâte de métal : (Argent, bronze et cuivre) – UK Amazon link
Sabine Alienor Singery – La magie des bijoux en pâte de métal ; argent, bronze et cuivre – US Amazon link
Sabine Alienor Singery – La magie des bijoux en pâte de métal ; argent, bronze et cuivre – French Amazon link

Tous les secrets de création d’une experte en pâte de métal pour faire des bijoux inspirés du monde celtique, féerique et elfique. Par l’auteur de “Bijoux créatifs en pâte d’argent”, le premier du genre en français. De nombreux pas à pas illustrés vous guideront dans la réalisation de vos bijoux. Un livre très complet avec de nombreuses créations.

Sally Spencer – Jewellers Quick Reference Guide to Working with Gemstones

Covering familiar stones such as amethyst through to the more unusual such as sillimanite, each gemstone has information about its durability and whether it might survive a swipe from a file or abrasive wheel, the pickle pot, repairing or resizing, polishing or cleaning using steam or an ultrasonic cleaner.

Sara Dutton – Metal Clay Magic– UK Amazon link
Sara Dutton – Metal Clay Magic – US Amazon link

This book introduces beginners to the basic techniques of using metal clay, showing how to roll and cut out shapes, set stones and findings, plus how to fire, burnish and polish your silver. Once you are familiar with these simple techniques you can try the exciting range of projects to create your own striking pendants, brooches, bracelets and rings. With clear instructions and step-by-step photographs, this inspiring book makes it easy to enjoy this fantastic craft and to greatly expand your jewellery collection.

Sarah Jane Cole – Metal Clay Origami Jewelry (Lark Jewelry Books) – UK Amazon link – Metal Clay Origami Jewelry: 25 Contemporary Projects (Lark Jewelry Books) (See all Jewelry Craft Books) – US Amazon link

Combining the allure of metal clay jewelry with the three-dimensional dynamism of origami, the pieces in this guide from noted artist Sara Jayne Cole are riveting. Cole offers up the know-how to fold metal clay paper sheets using surprisingly easy techniques, and a gallery of inspirational work is sure to have crafters of all skill levels eager to start on the 25 contemporary projects.

Sherri Haab – The Art of Metal Clay: Techniques for Creating Jewelry and Decorative Objects – UK Amazon link
Sherri Haab – The Art of Metal Clay (with DVD): Techniques for Creating Jewelry and Decorative Objects – US Amazon link

Nicely illustrated book with a range of projects for all levels of ability. Covers tools and supplies, firing, finishing, different types of clay and goes into making a variety of different things. Rings, boxes, stone setting, it’s all here. The US book also has a DVD.

Sherri Haab – Metal Clay and Mixed Media Jewelry: Innovative Projects Featuring Resin, Polymer Clay, Fiber, Glass, Ceramics, Collage Materials, and More – US Amazon link
Sherri Haab – Metal Clay and Mixed Media Jewelry: Innovative Projects Featuring Resin, Polymer Clay, Glass, Fiber, Concrete, Collage Materials and More – UK Amazon link

Great book for mixed media. Lots of techniques explained.

Sherri Haab Jewelry Inspirations: Techniques and Designs from the Artist’s Studio  – Amazon USA link
Sherri Haab Jewelry Inspirations  – Amazon UK link

In Sherri Haab Jewelry Inspirations, jewellery designer, instructor and author Sherri Haab invites jewellery crafters into her home studio to learn all about what inspires her to create her fresh, charming designs, while also providing her signature comprehensive instruction on a variety of popular techniques. The book begins with an introductory section, “”In the Studio,”” which offers guidance on how to cultivate ideas and provides an overview of essential techniques, including wirework, polymer clay, metal clay, resin and image transfer, along with information on resin clay and an eco-friendly technique for etching copper. Sherri then shares her personal archives, collections and reminiscences in five chapters that each offer two sources of inspiration in 25 new projects.

Sian Hamilton – Metal Clay Jewelry Workshop: Handcrafted Designs and Techniques – Amazon UK Link
Sian Hamilton – Metal Clay Jewelry Workshop: Handcrafted Designs & Techniques Amazon USA Link

The art of handcrafted metal clay jewellery is a fun and accessible way to create a range of stunning pieces from the comfort of your home. In this comprehensive guide, there are 30 main projects, each with extra projects to complete a set or to complement the main design, plus there is a wealth of advice on tools, materials and techniques, making it the perfect book for beginners. Step-by-step instructions, clear step photography and handy tips throughout will ensure confidence grows until you’re happy to make alterations to suit, or to design your own masterpiece from scratch!

Sue Heaser – How to Make Silver Charms from Metal Clay – UK Amazon Link
Sue Heaser – How to Make Silver Charms from Metal Clay: 50 Exquisite Projects and Full Instructions for All Skill Levels – US Amazon Link

Charm bracelets are more popular than ever. These customizable pieces of jewelry are a wonderful way for the wearer to express themselves and show their personality. But buying or making the intricate silver charms can be costly.

Now it’s possible to create beautiful one-of-a-kind silver charms without the extensive cost– and no silver-smithing skills needed! In How to Make Silver Charms from Metal Clay, internationally renowned artist, author and polymer clay specialist Sue Heaser shows readers how to create intricate silver charms–from keys and padlocks to fairies and animals– using metal clay.

Sue Heaser – Magical Metal Clay Jewellery: Amazingly Simple No-Kiln Techniques for Making Beautiful Jewellery – UK Amazon link
Sue Heaser – Magical Metal Clay Jewelry – US Amazon link

20 projects well illustrated and with good instructions. Covers all the main techniques of working with metal clay.

Sue Heaser – Metal Clay Techniques: The Complete Guide for Jewellery Makers – UK Amazon
Sue Heaser – Metal Clay for Jewelry Makers: The Complete Technique Guide – US Amazon

Amazon blurb – Experience metal clay like never before. Going far beyond most other metal clay books currently available, Metal Clay for Jewelry Makers covers basics and much more. Inside, you’ll explore a range of techniques including forming hinges and beads; working with paper clay; adding gemstones, glass, and ceramics; and syringing, burnishing, texturing, and using patinas.

Susan Breen Silvy and Christine Norton – New Directions: Powder Metallurgy (Metal Clay) in a Sheet Metal World – Blurb link

This brilliant little book, published in July 2011, shows what metal clay can achieve in the right hands. Full of pictures and with a forward by Michael David Sturlin, this is metal clay work at its best. Featuring metal clay artists from around the world, some well known, some not so well known, you’ll find this a brilliant source of inspiration.

Read this review on the Rio Grande website.

Tammy Garner – Metal Clay in a Day – UK Amazon link
Tammy Garner – Metal Clay In A Day – US Amazon link

Great book for beginners. 25 projects are outlined.

Tammy Powley – Picture Yourself Creating Metal Clay Jewelery – UK Amazon link
Tammy Powley – Picture Yourself Creating Metal Clay Jewelry – US Amazon link

This book shows novice metal clay artists how to create unique wearable works of art, from concept to completion. The book also includes a 45+ minute DVD where Tammy demonstrates two bonus projects, talks about some of the tools and techniques. The book includes all the necessary basics of metal clay as well as fourteen hands-on jewelry projects.

Tim McCreight – The Syntax of Objects (revised) – US Amazon link
Tim McCreight – The Syntax of Objects – UK Amazon link

In 2005, Tim McCreight wrote The Syntax of Objects, his first foray into the genre called creative nonfiction. His elegant book consists of short musings on the relationship we have with the objects in our lives. As a maker of objects, he wonders out loud about the way our memories and senses relate to decisions about what we make and how we go about making choices in the studio and in our living material world.

The revised edition uses the same text, but packages it in a smaller and thicker volume. The new Syntax augments the text with pinhole camera images like the original edition, but this book includes more of them.

Tim McCreight – Working with Precious Metal Clay (Jewellery Handbooks) – UK Amazon link
Tim McCreight – Working with Precious Metal Clay (Jewellery Handbooks) – US Amazon link

Brilliant beginners book outlining the tools and techniques for working with metal clay. Simple illustrations and instructions.

Tim McCreight – Precious Metal Clay Techniques – UK Amazon link
Tim McCreight – PMC Technic: A Collection of Techniques for Precious Metal Clay – US Amazon link

This book has a different name in the UK and the US. The content is the same. Lots of wonderful work by leading metal clay artists offering how to guides for some of the more advanced techniques. A must-have book for the serious metal clay artist.

Tim McCreight – PMC Decade: The First Ten Years of Precious Metal Clay – UK Amazon link
Tim McCreight – PMC Decade US Amazon link

This book is packed with eye candy from some of the best PMC Artists working in the medium. Every page is inspirational. A wonderful coffee table book or just browse when you’re feeling uninspired – you’ll soon be drooling at the artistry and bursting with enthusiasm.

Vickie Hallmark – Birdwatching, a Metal Clay Adventure

This beautiful book is full of great pictures and is Vickie’s first attempt at using the Blurb bookmaking website. You can preview the book’s content online and order it directly from the website in hardback or paperback format.

Xuella Arnold – Precious Metal Clay: 25 Gorgeous Designs for Jewelry and Gifts – US Amazon link
Xuella Arnold – Precious Metal Clay: 25 Gorgeous Designs for Jewellery and Gifts – UK Amazon link

Wonderful book for inspiration and advice.

Yvonne Padilla – Bronze Metal Clay: Explore a New Material with 35 Projects – Amazon US link
Bronze Metal Clay (A Lark Jewelry Book) by Yvonne Padilla  – Amazon UK link

This book addresses how to use the original Bronzclay but the techniques and information are equally applicable to the other Bronze clays that are around. Just adapt the firing schedule for the clay you’re using.

I particularly liked the question and answer format for key information and the very good troubleshooting guide. The projects are varied and range from jewelry to dishes, door knobs and house numbers. They are clearly explained and nicely illustrated. The gallery of work has some really interesting pieces. Overall, if you like the look of bronze clay but were afraid to tackle it, this book will guide you in your first steps and encourage you to experiment with this new material.