How do I start?? PMC metal clay

[Yogy]

Hiiii all metal clay experts!!!

I want to take a step ahead in jewelry making and thinking of trying metal clay. I do not know where to start. I understand it is not cheap to buy. I am really lost as to what should I buy or order along with clay to baby start it.

There are tons of resources online but nothing simplified. I'm apprehensive in buying an expensive clay and not end up using it. Also, what the basic tools one should must have using metal clay.

Would really appreciate any help/direction in this matter. :)

Thanksssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssss!

Yogy

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[Anna Stassen]

Hi Yogy

I went on a PMC 1 day course and they recommended we have the following:

• Small bag of PMC (9g bag) http://www.chunungatree.com/contents/en-ca/d4.html
• Badger Balm (to stop clay sticking to your hands and roller) 
• Plastic roller (to roll out your clay) http://www.chunungatree.com/contents/en-ca/d103_Essential_Clay_Tool...
• A non-stick work mat 
• Various tools which you can use to shape your clay (rubber tipped clay tool set)
• You can use stuff you have around the house to texturise your clay like wallpaper etc
• Sharp knife (craft knife)
• Blow torch to fire the PMC (or small jewellery kiln will also work)

I'd say it might be worth you seeing if your local adult education centre offers a 1 day taster course in PMC as then you can try to see if you like it without buying all the kit. 

Anna x

[Ley Holloway]

Anna's probably right about a class if you can find, or afford, one, I just bought some and leapt in. I bought art clay slow drying 650. Slow drying is a relative term, it doesn't dry out instantly! I also bought a wire mesh to fire on a gas stove and a brass brush. Come to think of it might have been a beginner's kit, I already had an acrylic roller I used for Fimo, I know, contamination and all that, but if you clean really carefully shouldn't be a problem. I was really pleased with my first piece. Best advice, prepare your working space really carefully, have a design really fully worked out before you start and then go for it. Allow the piece to completely dry before firing, in fact put it in the oven as low as it will go for 1/2 hour, anything not fully dried out explodes on firing! Have fun and don't be afraid to fail. I've attached a pic of my first piece made using silicone moulds from natural objects.