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5 common mistakes made when working with metal clay and how to fix it!

Writer's picture: Emma-Louise RoyEmma-Louise Roy

When embarking on a new and exciting hobby, it's easy to get swept up in enthusiasm and overlook crucial steps that can enhance your experience with metal clay. 


Here are five common mistakes beginners frequently make when working with silver clay, along with helpful tips to avoid or correct them:


#1. Not enough or too much release agent!Mistake: at the risk of sounding like Goldilocks it’s important to get this just right!

Not enough release agent will make your clay stick to your cutters and textures.

Too much ( especially olive oil) can contaminate your clay and make it all crumbly. Just a light coating of clay ( we are not cooking fries or auditioning for magic mike!😜) 

NB

some rubber mats can be a little on the clingy side so may need a little more than wall paper samples  for example

Fix: if not clay is sticking just use a little more lubricant 

If you have accidentally used too much ( you won’t be the first and certainly won’t be the last , we have all done it!) add your crumbly clay to a little fresh clay and rehydrate with a tiny amount of water. 


# 2. Opening the clay too soon Mistake: Some beginners tend to get excited, and open the clay packet before they know what they would like to make. Or hold it in their hands which can  make the clay dry out .


Fix:  Preparation is key, plan out what you want to make first Work the clay just enough to shape it, and avoid excessive manipulation. If the clay becomes too dry while you’re working, you can mist it lightly with water ( on your finger and tap on to clay, then fold it using plastic wrap to rehydrate it.


# 3. Inadequate Drying TimeMistake: Rushing the drying process can result in cracks or incomplete drying, which affects the final piece.

Fix: Allow your pieces to dry completely before firing. Depending on the thickness and size of the piece, this can take several hours to overnight. Use a fan or a heat source like a dehydrator on low to speed up the process, but ensure it’s not too hot. And turn your pieces as they dry.


# 4. Incorrect Firing Temperature or TimeMistake: Beginners might not follow the firing instructions accurately, leading to underfiring or overfiring.


Fix: Always refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines for the specific brand of silver clay you’re using. Use a reliable thermometer and ensure your kiln or torch is set to the correct temperature. If you’re using a torch, practice your technique on test pieces first.


# 5. Neglecting to Plan for ShrinkageMistake: Many beginners forget that silver clay shrinks during firing, which can lead to issues with fit and proportions.


Fix: Factor in a shrinkage rate of approximately 10-15% depending on the brand of clay when designing your pieces. Create a prototype with less expensive material or scale your design accordingly to ensure the final piece is the desired size.


### Bonus Tips:- Practice and Patience: Working with silver clay can take time to master. Don’t be discouraged by mistakes; they’re part of the learning process.-


Safety First: Always work in a well-ventilated area, especially when firing, and follow safety guidelines for tools and materials

By following these tips, beginners can enhance their silver clay experience and create beautiful, successful pieces!


To avoid the common pitfalls when starting out I highly recommend taking an in person workshop with an experienced teacher to help guide you and get you started on your silver clay journey, our taster workshops at the Silver Clay Academy are perfect for this and designed to get you started on the right track saving you money, time and frustration! Here are the full list of workshops for you! https://www.silverclayacademy.co.uk/workshops


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Registered Office: The Old Telephone Exchange, Long Lane, Hermitage, Thatcham Berkshire RG18 9QS

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