Learning Center Resources

These articles are written by the AMCAW volunteer team. If you would like to write an article or offer an idea please contact us.

Use the filter buttons or the search bar to find exactly what you’re looking for.

We have curated a third party collection of video resources to help you improve your skills. Click the button to visit this library.

Visit the Learning Center video resources

Metal Clay Overview

Would you like to know all about the basic information (foundation skills) for metal clay? Read more here…
Tools & Equipment

Want to get started with metal clay making but don’t know what tools and materials you will need. Start here…
Metal Clay Firing Methods and Equipment

There are many ways to fire different metal clays, this article talks you through what works with the different types of clay.
Safety, Metal Clay, and You

Working with metal clay is safe but it’s always good to follow safe practices. Learn all about good safety practices here…
Forms of Metal Clay

Want to know about all the different types of metal clay from lump to syringe? Start here…
Differences Between Silver and Base Metal Clays

Metal clay comes in a wide variety of metals, so it can be a little confusing to understand the differences. Find out more here…
Understanding Sintering in Metal Clay

When you fire metal clay it needs to sinter to be successfully fired. Here we cover the whole process of sintering…
Planning Your First Class

This article gives you a detailed plan to follow to help make planning a class easy.
Working With Metal Clay

Each form of metal clay has distinct properties that can be utilized in a variety of ways. Read more here…
Rehydrating Metal Clay

Out of the package metal clay is malleable but it can quickly dry out. Find out more here…
Finishing Metal Clay Jewelry (pt 1)

There are many techniques you can use to create a professional-looking piece. Read more here…
Setting Fire In Place Stones

This article is an overview of the types of stones that can be set into metal clay and setting techniques.
Metal Clay Glossary

If you are struggling to understand some of the terms used with metal clay then head over to our glossary.
A Brief History of Metal Clay

Learn the history of metal clay and how it all started. Read more here…
Is Teaching Right for Me?

Have you ever wanted to teach but are not sure if it would be a good fit or where to start? Read more here…
Pricing Handmade Jewelry

Pricing products is one of the most important aspects of any business, gets some tips here…
Calls for Entry

This article outlines the details that are needed for ‘Calls for Entry’ or any submission opportunity.
Overcoming Artist Block

We all get stuck occasionally. Check out this article to find ways to overcome that block…
Embedding Metal in Metal Clay

Want to know more about embedding different metals into metal clay, then read on...
Dancik On Design

Everything in our world is designed, either by people, animals, natural phenomenon, or some force.
Ten top tips for a green workspace

Here are our ten top tips that will help you make your workspace greener.
About Patina

This article describes a few ways to patina metal which work well with metal clay.
Online Teaching

With recent events in 2020 learning the skills to teach online are essential.
Finishing Metal Clay Jewelry (pt 2)

Learn to polish your work in a range of different ways.
Using Enamel

Learn all about enamelling, the different types, prepping and application.
Mixed Media Creations

There are so many ways of adding color to your metal clay...
Working with Gold

Learn all about Gold, the different types and how to use them...
Setting Stones After Firing

The options for setting non-fireable stones is much greater than fireable stones, and in many cases, more desirable
Metal Clay and Glass

Read about how to use glass cabochons and fuse them in place during firing
Ceramics in Metal Clay

Silver Clay can be used to mount and/or embellish ceramics in the same way as glass. Read about the options here...
Introduction to Base Metal Clay

This article is a basic introduction to base metal clay.
Organising the Workspace

Whether you work on your kitchen table or you rent a studio, organising your tools and work area is essential to maximise your productivity...
Don’t bail out on bails

Paying attention to bails will help lift your design. Take a look at these bail options for your next piece...
Dry Construction

There are many ways to attach metal clay to metal clay. Attaching dry clay to dry clay is ‘dry construction.’
Putting the Right Finish on Your Work Linda Kaye-Moses

Linda Kaye-Moses talks you through her finishing techniques, from traditional treatments to her own processes...
Dial Controlled Kilns

In this article Pam East demystifies dial controlled kilns...
Mold Making for Metal Clay

This article explores the advantages of a number of different mold making materials to help you make the right choice for the items you want to recreate in metal clay.
Selling Metal Clay Jewelry In Person: A Beginners Guide

Do you want to start selling and don't know what to do? Check out this article about selling in person...
Metal Clay and Beads

Incorporating beads into or alongside your metal clay creations is a great option, read more...

Learning Center Blog

Magnetic Finishers And Their Variables

Oct 13, 2022

I always use a magnetic finisher to burnish my...

Making Your Own Flexible Metal Clay

Aug 11, 2022

Make Flexible Metal Clay There are dozens of...

Silver Metal Clays – Which is the right one for your needs?

Jul 29, 2022

It's hard to believe that, in little more than...

« Older Entries