# Metal clay (PMC)

> Metal clay mixes silver or gold powder with a binder; it is hand-modeled and fired into solid metal. A modern, accessible technique.

- Source: https://www.711grados.com/en/metal-clay/
- Language: en
- Note: This entry was drafted with the help of AI and is pending review by the author.
- Published: 2026-09-23
- Updated: 2026-09-23
- Translation (es): https://www.711grados.com/es/arcilla-metalica/
- Author: Sandra Sánchez
- Site: 711 Grados (https://www.711grados.com/)

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Metal clay (PMC, Art Clay…) is a paste of silver, gold or copper particles with an organic binder and water. It is modeled like clay and, when fired, turns into metal.

![Steps of the technique: Knead, Model, Dry, Fire, Cool, Finish](https://www.711grados.com/media/diagrams/arcilla-metalica-steps.en.svg "Summary of the steps")

## How it is done

1. The paste is modeled by hand or with molds and left to dry.
2. It is filed and smoothed when dry.
3. It is fired in a kiln or with a torch: the binder burns away and the particles sinter into metal.
4. The piece is polished like any other.

## Shrinkage

The piece shrinks when fired (between 8 and 30% depending on the brand); design it a little larger.

## Origin

It was developed in Japan in the early 1990s and brought silver jewelry to people without a casting workshop.

## Advantages

No soldering or casting is needed; it takes textures, stamps and molds.

## Step by step

1. **Knead.** Keep the clay moist as you work.
2. **Model.** Shape by hand or with molds.
3. **Dry.** Let it dry completely.
4. **Fire.** Sinter in a kiln or with a torch.
5. **Cool.** Let it rest.
6. **Finish.** Brush, burnish and polish.

## Tools and materials

- Metal clay (silver or copper)
- Kiln or torch
- Modeling tools
- Brass brush and burnisher

## Common mistakes

- Poor drying: it cracks when fired.
- Not allowing for shrinkage (12-30%).
- Firing at the wrong temperature.
- Reusing clay that has already dried.

## See also

- [Jewelry oven](https://www.711grados.com/en/jewelry-oven/)
- [Silver](https://www.711grados.com/en/silver/)
- [Metal ingots and casting grain](https://www.711grados.com/en/metal-ingots-and-casting-grain/)