Create a Leaf Pendant or Charm Using PMC Slip.

Tools required: small paintbrush, workboard, PMC Slip.

1. Select a suitable leaf - it should be fairly sturdy, and non hairy. Don't
go for too large a leaf, as it may become too fragile as you work, curling
and cracking and slip. Don't forget a pointy leaf will create a pointy, and
possible sharp, charm. You're going to use the back of the leaf where the
veins are more pronounced, so feel the underside leaf for a nice texture.
Don't worry about little holes made by insects as this will add extra
"charm".

2. Take the ready mixed PMC Slip, or mix your own in a mixing pot or
egg-cup. To do this, combine a small amount of paste with a few drops of
distilled water, and mix to the consistency of nail varnish. Then apply a
layer of paste to the underside of the leaf with a small paintbrush - you
don't have to use an expensive brush, a childrens one will be fine, just
make sure you remove any loose hairs before you start.

3. Give the paste enough time to dry naturally. Move the board somewhere
out of the way where little fingers and drafts won't knock it onto the
floor.

4. Apply additional layers of paste and repeat the drying process until you
have made up at least 5 layers of paste. If the leaf doesn't feel heavy
enough then repeat the process a few more times.

5. Make a hanging bail by rolling and cutting out a small rectangle of PMC3.
Wrap this rectangle around an oiled wooden skewer, leaving a flat edge.
Remove from the skewer, leave to dry and attach this to the back of the
pendant, using a little more paste as slip as "glue".

6. When you fire the leaf it will burn away. Simply fire the the pendant
with a torch until it goes orange color and hold at this temperature for
about 3 minutes, as usual. Or, of course you can use a kiln. If you torch
fire, as the leaf burns away, it will create more smoke than usual - but
this is normal.

7. Once cool, use a wire brush to give it a little shine followed by the PMC
polishing papers to make it really shiny!