Ask the Experts Solder Q&A

I want to "trim" the edge of a seashell with silver. I definitely do not want to just glue metal on. Is there some way to attach metal to a shell? Could I perhaps even use metal clay?

- Ashley

Our suggestion is to apply copper foil to the edge of your seashell and tin the foil with silver using solder and a soldering iron. If you used metal clay you would have to fire the piece and your shell wouldn't make it through the firing. You'd also have the metal clay shrinkage to deal with so your best bet would be soldering copper foil.

- Kristal Wick, Designer, Author and Jewelry-Making Expert