Precious Metal Clay is a clay-like material made up of fine metal particles, an organic binder and water. Working with PMC is similar to playing with PlayDoh as it can be rolled, shaped, textured, molded, and carved to your imagination's delight. Pieces are fired in a kiln which burns-off the binder and melts the particles together into a solid metal finished work of art.
This class will review the basics of working with metal clay and will be comfortable for both beginners and intermediate PMC enthusiasts. On day one, a variety of ring styles will be discussed and design elements explored. Students will learn about clay shrinkage and how to size rings accordingly. Stone setting in PMC will be covered and a variety of crystals will be available to incorporate into pieces All participants will be able to create a number of different rings for over night firing. Day two will allow for discussion of the fired pieces and cover a variety of finishing techniques for them. Students should have time to continue working with their remaining clay and options for additional firing.
Details:
Instructor:Chris Eisenberg discovered beading while recovering from an accident and the resulting traumatic brain injury. Beading was her therapy and credits it for helping her become whole again. Chris has a doctorate in classical piano performance from the University of Northern Colorado and is a performance coach and collaborator at Central Washington University. She has previously taught workshops at the Autumn Artist Retreat and in the Iron Mountain Arts studio near Port Gamble.
