Working with Cork Clay

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Materials/Equipment: PMC+ Clay #67002 or Syringe #67017 Cork Clay #67011 Shader Brush #17101 Detail Carving Tool #68714 5 Piece Metal Clay File Set #69721 Micro Torch #6722050 and Fire Brick #64401 or Studio 8 Kiln Wire Brush #10301 and Polishing Block #67007

Directions:
1.	Form a shape with the cork clay. This can be any 3 dimensional form, reasonable in size as this is the base for your project. Press the carving tool into the "bottom" of the project, or in some other discreet area.
2.	Allow to dry thoroughly. This usually takes 12 hours or so as it is best to let it dry slowly. Any moisture left could potentially damage the project during firing.
3.	While holding the cork clay form by the carving tool, cover it in a layer of paste, or use the syringe to make "squiggles" all over the project to create an open filigree form. Allow to dry, then add additional layers as needed. (For a paste project you will need to build 12-15 coats of paste up on average to have a durable form.)
4.	File any sharp areas or malformed areas on the dry silver clay. Add paste to touch up as needed, and dry again.
5.	Once dry, place the project on your fire brick or into the kiln. The cork clay and tooth pick will both burn off during firing. If the project is any larger than a bead of ½" diameter we recommend kiln firing for your safety. Avoid torch firing anything that will produce a large flame and lots of smoke.
6.	Polish the project with your wire brush.
Additional Notes on Cork Clay: Keep all unused portions in an air-tight container such as a zip lock bag. Cork clay cannot be reconstituted. Store at room temperature. Dark spots (mildew) may appear, but will not affect the performance of this product. Cork clay will produce smoke as it burns. Always fire this product in a well ventilated area. Do not open the kiln during firing-the extra oxygen could cause the fire to "flash" and endanger anyone near the kiln. After firing you may notice a small amount of green ash or residue. This can be rinsed off with running water.

For More Detailed Instruction and Creative Projects See:
	Introduction to Precious Metal Clay #6289 This do-it-yourself guide by Mary Ann Devos provides all the information you need to get started and advance to a "master class" level. This easy-to-follow guide explains the clay and tools you will need, as well as showing step-by-step projects with detailed instructions and photos.
	Metal Clay Beads #6124 Combining metal clay and beading, this unique, comprehensive reference includes 22 outstanding projects. Internationally renowned metalworker and jeweler Barbara Becker shares time-tested, inventive techniques for making exquisite beads from metal clay. She emphasizes the most important advantage of this accessible jewelry-making material: creating hollow forms with sophisticated surface textures. An introductory section guides the reader through all the fundamentals, from forming and joining the clay to firing and finishing. Learn how to add gemstones, glass, and other objects; use molded and carved texture plates; etch photos into a surface; develop rich patinas; and more. From the Porcupine Pearl Bead to a Polygon Box Bead, the projects are both timely and sophisticated.