Ask the Experts Firing Q&A

I want to make a bracelet that is not a bangle but one that doesn't touch each side. What can I use to mold and fire on?

- Melissa

Determine the size of the bracelet you want and factor in shrinkage during firing to ensure a good fit after firing. Art-Clay® shrinks an average of 8-10% and Prometheus® shrinks an average of 12-15%.

Translate that determined size onto the appropriate spot on a bracelet mandrel (most bracelet mandrels are not marked by size like a ring mandrel) and tape a piece of Teflon® sheet at the spot while it dries. You could also look around your house for a suitable form, such as a large light bulb, plastic soda bottle or other large enough item. This form will not be fired with the metal clay.

Note: Aluminum is not a good form to use since there is a chemical reaction between the clay and the aluminum that will not translate well in firing—as in, your piece will be ruined.

Once the design is complete, determine if the bracelet can lay on its side/edge. If so, can it lie flat on a kiln shelf or does it have too much detail and needs to rest on a fiber blanket or a bed of vermiculite?

Note: It is advisable to wear a dust mask when working with vermiculite.

Fill the opening of the bracelet with either a section of fiber blanket or dome the vermiculite inside the opening to help maintain the shape.

Note: It is advisable to wear a dust mask when pulling apart fiber blanket.

If the bracelet needs to remain vertical—and you have a kiln with a large enough interior space—consider filling a kiln-proof container (like an unglazed terra cotta pot) with either fiber blanket or vermiculite and place the bracelet in accordingly, so it is supported during firing.

- Tammy Honaman, Author, Jewelry-Making Expert and Educator