Metal Working Resources

Master the Art of Metalwork

Forming and shaping metal with a hammer is the beating heart of this art form. Metalworking runs the gamut from cold connections to hot soldering, using metal to create dazzling designs to last the ages. Let this fascinating material spark your creativity!

Learn How to Etch Copper with Saltwater

Etching copper with saltwater might sound like a magic trick, but it's actually simple science! Learn how to etch jewelry pieces with this video.

Hosted by Patti

Explore Metal Work Tips & Techniques

Keeping the Perfect Metal Clay Consistency

See how to keep metal clay the right consistency as you create jewelry by following these steps from award-winning mixed media artist Lisa Pavelka.

Video Length 3:33

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Finishing Metal Clay Pieces

See how to hand finish your Art Clay® silver metal clay jewelry components in minutes with this quick step-by-step tutorial hosted by world-renowned mixed media artist Lisa Pavelka.

Video Length 3:17

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5 Steps: How to Rehydrate Old Metal Clay

Has your metal clay gone bone-dry? We'll show you how to bring it back to life! LauraLynn demonstrates how in just 5 easy steps: break up, grind, sift, rehydrate and reform!

Video Length 7:17

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How to Use Molding Compound

Want to make replicas of some of your unique stations or duplicate hard-to-find vintage buttons.? Learn how to use molding compound to recreate even fragile items.

Video Length 6:12

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How To Anneal and Texture Metal

Join Patti to learn how to anneal and pickle different metal surfaces before texturing them with specialty hammers.

Video Length 26:18

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A Guide to Torches for Jewelry Making and Metalsmithing

Learn about the importance of torches in jewelry making and small metalsmithing projects including soldering, annealing, enameling and even firing metal clay. Follow along with Patti as she shows the different torches we offer and how to pick the best fit for your needs.

Video Length 10:00

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Firing Gemstones into Art Clay®

Adding gemstones to metal clay can increase the appeal of a piece, but it's important to know how the stones will react. This article discusses how to fire different stone types.

Tinning Copper Foil

Learn this "stained glass" technique that adds a silver rim to the edge of your glass, and is often referred to as tinning.

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How to Use a Disc Cutter

Save time and effort with metal disc cutters! Watch Michael show how to use these handy tools to shape metal for your jewelry.

Video Length 2:14

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Featured Design Inspiration

Model showing a necklace that is hand stamped

Design Idea D42N

Two-Piece Necklace and Earring Set

Karen Suarez's metal clay necklace, with its graceful lines and adjustable chain, is the stuff that dreams are made of! Featuring hand-sculpted designs that capture fine details, transforms the once malleable material into a stringing piece.

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Helpful Technique: A Guide to Torches for Metalworking

Learn about the importance of torches in jewelry making and small metalsmithing projects uncluding soldering, annealing, enameling and even firing metal clay. Follow along with Patti as she shows the different torches we offer and how to pick the best fit for your needs.

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Explore The Metalworking Gallery

Earrings

Bring together organic textures and timeless beauty with shell earrings crafted from hammered copper and zinc sheet, each cradling a cultured freshwater pearl.

Design Idea RD2E

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Single-Strand Necklace and Earrings

A cosmic collision of hammered metal, twinkling stars and cheeky rainbows—this necklace and earring set brings the magic of the night sky down to Earth.

Design Idea RJ2M

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Earrings

Dangly copper textured disc earrings that are simple, stunning, and sure to turn heads—featuring handmade copper components by mixed media artist Lisa Pavelka.

Design Idea K712

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Bracelet

Give dad a gift he'll cherish with this understated bracelet. The mix of black chain and bright copper gives off a masculine, industrial look.

Design Idea MH33

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Bracelet

Keep your loved ones close. Create a customized mother's bracelet with their birthstones or zodiac signs and add their names with custom-stamped components.

Design Idea NC22

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Earrings

Craft dainty earrings flowing with the cool, serene hues of the ocean. Monogrammed discs add a personal touch to enhance the beauty of this work of art.

Design Idea QD2G

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Gift Tags

Make your own personalized gift tags for an over-the-top presentation. This combination of macramé and wood components has a beautifully organic look.

Design Idea PA3V

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Single-Strand Necklace

"Here, Mousie, Mousie!" This adorable design by Michela Verani will capture your heart with its lifelike details, beautifully brought to life with metal clay.

Design Idea H21R

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Salt and Pepper Shakers

Exuding an air of regal sophistication, these artfully crafted salt and pepper shakers are sculpted using Art Clay® precious metal clay and adorned with sparkling faceted gems and cabochons.

Design Idea K11W

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Single-Strand Necklace

Metal clays let you turn any moment into bespoke jewelry! Ruth Baillie’s "Feed the Birds" pendant necklace does just that, with silver birds enjoying a delightfully detailed meal.

Design Idea A8AE

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