The newest formula of Art Clay Silver Clay combining the best features of the original Art Clay Silver 650 formula and the Art Clay Silver Slow Dry formula.
This magical medium consists of finely ground pure silver mixed with non-toxic binders and water. The excellent sculpting properties of this off-white, malleable clay means it can be worked into unique and personalised jewellery or ornaments, and once fired, the binders burn away leaving pure, 99.9% silver which can be hallmarked ‘.999’ at any UK Assay Office.
The new Art Clay Silver Clay formula has a longer working time than the original Slow Dry clay, is less sticky, and retains and accepts moisture more easily than the original Art Clay Silver metal clays. When dried it can be filed, drilled or carved with less effort and a smooth finish is readily achieved.
The clay is then fired on a gas stove, with a torch or in a kiln for 30 minutes at 650°C or 5 minutes at 800°C (see our blog post Firing Art Clay Silver Clay for further information) to become pure silver. .
Available in 7g, 10g, 20g and 50g packs (the 50g pack contains 2 individually wrapped 25g blocks of clay). Shrinkage after firing is 8-9%
We asked artist and jewellery designer Joy Funnell to test the new formula Art Clay Silver clay and you can read her expert opinion on our blog post New Formula Art Clay Silver Clay – Tried & Tested. Our photograph here shows a ring made from the new Art Clay Silver with enamelling by Joy.
Resealable packet in a range of weights.
Work Smart and Plan
Take care when working with Art Clay Silver to get the most out of it with little waste. Here are some tips:
Once opened, the moist binder in these small quantities of silver clay will begin to dry out. Increase working time by not exposing the clay to air until you are ready to use it. Keep wrapped in cling film and place in an air-tight container with a piece of damp sponge. Warm temperatures and hands will reduce working time.- Plan your project before you start. Work out how to make the item as efficiently as possible, calculating quantities and measurements.
- The clay can be shaped by hand or in a mould made from silicone. Detailed original shapes can be created from polymer clay, which when baked and cooled, can be pressed into the silicone to replicate the shape. The silicone mould kit contains a 2 part moulding putty which when combined takes just 30 minutes to set into a flexible and reusable mould.
- Rub a little olive oil into your fingers before handling the clay as this will help to stop it drying out.
- Ensure the clay is thoroughly dried before firing as damp clay is likely to crack.
- Recycle powder left over from filing by adding a little water to make silver paste which can be used for repairs or for joining pieces together.
Once opened, the moist binder in these small quantities of silver clay will begin to dry out. Increase working time by not exposing the clay to air until you are ready to use it. Keep wrapped in cling film and place in an air-tight container with a piece of damp sponge. Warm temperatures and hands will reduce working time.
