Create your own one-of-a kind chain using Art Clay silver. The necklace shown was made using 45 Art Clay silver squares and 45 Art Clay silver links; you can vary the length by changing the amount of squares and links you create.
Squares are 9/16 x 9/16 inches. The center of each square is 5/16 x 5/16 inches. Links are 1-1/2 x1/8 inches. Squares and links are 2mm thick.
STEP 1
Cut out a 9/16 x 9/16 inch square and a 5/16 x 5/16 inch square template using cardstock. Prepare your work surface and get all of your supplies ready.
Condition your clay then place it onto a non-stick sheet. Place the stacks of playing cards on either side of the clay. The cards will help maintain an even thickness as the roller rolls across their surface. Roll the clay out until it's 2mm thick. Cut out 45 squares using the 9/16 inch square template. Cut out a 5/16 inch square opening inside each square. Let all of the clay pieces sit until bone dry.
STEP 2
Using the 600-grit sandpaper, sand all the squares on all sides to eliminate any sharp edges, scratches or air holes.
STEP 3
Using the wax resist paintbrush, paint a small amount of wax on both sides of each square where the link will eventually touch it. Set the squares aside to dry.
STEP 4
Roll out a small amount of clay, to 2mm thickness. Cut a link 1-1/2 x 1/8 inches wide. Because the clay dries so quickly, it's important to complete each link before going to the next. Pay attention to clean cuts so sanding is minimal.
STEP 5
Take two squares and insert the link into the open area on each square. Fold the link across itself and insert a Popsicle stick between the back of the link and the front of the square. Use the wooden end of a paintbrush to press an indentation into the clay. Using the end of a paintbrush, press gently down on the link while pressing up on the Popsicle stick to create a rivet-like effect in the link. Remove the Popsicle stick and set the two squares and one link aside to dry. Once dry, gently sand the link with a damp toothpick along the edges of the link to clean and smooth out any imperfections.
Toothpicks make great cleaning tools with the clay when they are damp but not wet.
Using a makeup brush, remove the grains of clay made while sanding, and save them for making your own paste.
STEP 6
Repeat Steps 4 - 5 until all the squares are attached together. It is easiest to work two-by-two for the first round, then start linking the two-by-twos into four-by-fours, then the four-by-fours into eight-by-eights until finished.
STEP 7
The last link will connect the two ends together. Once the edges are cleaned, the necklace should be completely clean and ready to fire in the kiln at 1250 degrees Fahrenheit for 30 minutes. Let cool.
STEP 8
Once the necklace has cooled, brush the surface with the stainless steel brush. It is tedious getting into the crevices of the links. To assist with this, take the steel wool and wrap a small amount around a toothpick. Carefully scrape inside the links.
STEP 9
Use the agate burnisher to burnish the surface to a shining finish. Use Wenol® metal polish and a soft cloth for the final buffing.
The pieces featured in the Gallery of Designs are copyrighted designs and are provided for inspiration only. We
encourage you to substitute different colors, products and techniques to make the design your own.
Have a question regarding this design idea? Email Customer Service.
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