Beginners Metal Clay

Learn modern alchemy in this class packed with hints and tips designed for beginners.

This exciting day is designed especially with beginners in mind to give you the chance to learn new techniques and experimenting with this amazing material. 

Metal clay is a clay-like substance made of 100% recycled silver (reclaimed from X-rays, the photographic industry and more), an organic plant-based binder and some water. It can be moulded and shaped like clay and can be fired with a torch (a creme brule torch will do!) or in a kiln. The process of firing sinters the metal - forming it into a solid piece of hallmark quality silver. It really is like magic! 

One of the great advantages of working in metal clay is that it is easy to continue working at home after the class without a big investment as you don't need many tools or equipment. It is also good for those who have dexterity issues and may struggle with sawing, for example. Clay is much for forgiving on the hands!

Techniques covered in this class include:  

• Rolling out the clay to a consistent thickness  

• Texturing and cutting out shapes  

• Sanding, polishing and drilling  

• Basic stone setting  

• Making your own moulds for making silver charms

• Torch firing and basics of kiln firing  

We generally follow three projects throughout the day which include: 

• A small stone set pendant 

• A small charm using moulding compound  

• A pair of earrings 

However, there is also lots of flexibility in terms of design and experimentation. By the end of the day, you will have the skills and confidence to go away and start making and firing your own gorgeous designs at home. 

All materials are included in the class as well as full class notes.  

What you need to bring to this class: 

For this class you don't need to bring anything but yourself, as everything is provided. 

General Info: 

As with all of our classes, all materials are included in the cost of the class as well as plenty of tea, coffee and luxury biscuits! The classes are all run by expert tutors with years of professional experience who are friendly, knowledgeable and approachable. The size of the classes is kept small to allow plenty of one-on-one attention and the maximum number of students for this class is 8. 

We take an hour break for lunch and there are plenty of local shops to get food from, or you can always bring a packed lunch to eat in the studio. If you have any questions regarding this or other courses please don't hesitate to get in touch.