Silver Metal Clay – half-day taster workshop

Silver Metal Clay – Half-Day Taster Workshop

Come and discover the fascinating process of creating jewellery with silver metal clay at The Studio. This unique material is made of microscopic particles of pure silver mixed with water and a non-toxic binder. It handles just like ceramic clay, but once it is fired, the binder burns away, leaving you with a piece of solid, hallmark-quality fine silver (99.9% pure). Creating with silver clay is great fun and pretty magical when you see the fine silver suddenly appear after firing.

During this taster workshop, you will learn how to design, shape, and fire your own unique pieces. This session covers the basics of the craft, showing you how to texture the clay and use simple hand tools to create gorgeous pieces of silver jewellery.

What to Expect

This session is a creative and satisfying morning where you will create precious metal jewellery. After a short demonstration to show you how the material behaves, you will begin working on your own designs:

• Design and shaping: You will learn how to roll the clay to an even thickness and use cutters or freehand techniques to create your shapes.
• Adding texture: We will use various mats, stamps, and natural objects to press beautiful patterns into the wet clay.
• Refining: Once your pieces are dry, you will learn how to sand and tidy them to ensure a perfect finish after firing.
• Firing & Polishing: You will watch the transformation as we fire the pieces. Once cooled, you will brush and polish the silver to bring out its natural shine.

What’s Included

The workshop fee is all-inclusive, so you don't need to worry about any hidden costs. I provide all the professional tools and materials required to complete your projects.

• Materials: A 7g starter pack of silver metal clay is included in your fee.
• Tools and equipment: Full use of the studio kiln (or torches), all tools and textures.
• Safety equipment: I provide aprons and safety glasses for your use throughout the workshop, but please bring your own if you’d prefer to use those.
• Consumables: Sanding pads and polishing cloths, and kiln supplies.
• Jewellery Findings: A selection of basic findings (such as jump rings or cord) to turn your silver pieces into wearable jewellery.
• Tuition: Step-by-step guidance in a small group setting to ensure you get plenty of individual support.
• Refreshments: Drinks and homemade cake are always at The Studio!

What to Bring

I recommend you bring the following:

• A notebook and pen: To jot down design ideas, shrinkage rates, and polishing tips.
• A packed lunch: (For full-day workshops only). There are also local cafes nearby if you prefer to pop out for a break.
• Your own safety equipment: I have aprons and safety glasses available, but feel free to bring your own if you’d prefer.

What you will take home

By the end of the workshop, you will have designed, refined, and fired your own fine silver jewellery pieces. Because the firing process is relatively quick, you will be able to wear your new jewellery as you leave The Studio.

• Your jewellery: You can expect to make one or two pieces, or if you are making small charms, then you may be able to make several out of the metal clay that you are provided with.
• The secret of the 'magic' clay: An understanding of how this amazing material works and how to handle it at every stage, from wet clay to solid metal.
• A sense of calm: Working with silver clay is a quiet, tactile, and mindful activity. The focus required to texture and shape the clay provides a wonderful creative escape from daily life.
• Creative inspiration: You’ll gain the confidence to continue making at home, knowing how to achieve beautiful results with just a few simple hand tools.
• Great memories: A fun and social experience shared with a small group of fellow makers in a beautiful setting.

When            Saturday 4^th April

Duration        Half Day (3 hours)

Price             £75

Skill Level      Beginner / No experience required. Also suitable for more experienced jewellers wanting to try metal clay

Materials       7g of fine silver metal clay and silver findings

Take Home    Several silver charms or a pendant and earrings