Texturising clay work

So, you make a wonderful piece, but realise, once it’s died that it could look even better with a texture...what do you do?

Simple! Use these simple techniques:

1.       CARVING

Carve dried metal clay with a woodcarving or linoleum gouge to create a unique pattern of your choice – Due to the high proportion of binder original PMC works best with this method

2.       FILING

Files can be used on dry metal clay pieces to form gouges, depressions, and other interesting surface textures.

3.       DRILLING

Some interesting surface textures can be created by drilling depressions (or even holes) in the dry clay.

4.       WATER DECAL* (time consuming but the results are brill!)

Applying a non-water-soluble resist, such as nail polish or wax, onto a dry metal clay piece and then removing clay from the exposed areas by wiping with a damp sponge or moist towelette (e.g., Wet Ones) produces some wonderful etched effects
 

(*a terrific how-to article about this technique called "Water Works" in the September 2006 Art Jewellery Magazine)