Just shortly after Metal Clay became available for jewelry artists I knew I had to try this new medium. I really wasn't fond of cutting the metal sheets into forms as silversmith's do; but I knew I would enjoy working with a clay that I could sculpt and texture with my hands and a few simple tools.
When Metal Clay was first introduced to the market it was known as PMC or Precious Metal Clay. The precious metals being fine silver and gold. Fine silver was the first Metal Clay I used and I was so thrilled with the results I obtained I went on to try Bronze Clay and Copper Clay when they were introduced.
Metal Clay is made up of tiny particles of metal suspended in an organic binding material. When fired to the proper temperatures in a kiln or with a torch the binding material burns away leaving pure metal. The clay can be worked with the hands to create a vast array of forms and surfaces which is not obtainable with traditional techniques.
To get started with Metal Clay you should have these few simple tools on hand.
A clean work surface. I use a plastic mat.A clean dish of water.Sculpting tools such as a knife and texture tools.Stainless steel wire brush is good.A small low fire kiln or jewelry torch.A rotary tumbler will polish the metal giving a professional touch.Simple circular and square shapes which are classic for jewelry design.A plastic roller for getting the clay smooth and the desired thickness.A deck of plastic playing cards.
As you can see you don't need a lot of expensive equipment to try your skills with metal clay as you would in traditional methods of working with metals. Working with the clay gives the artist more of a chance to express themselves and be unique in their designs.
Once you have mastered the skill of working with the clay you will probably want to move on to more exciting things such as creating bezels and mounting high fire stones in your pieces. It is just like Christmas morning when your kiln cools down and you lift the lid and see all your works of art sitting there.
If you want to be unique with your designs I hope you will give Metal Clay a chance. There is an abundance of information online and if you really want to do it, you can! All the best in your endeavours and I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.