Silver Precious Metal Clay, 16 gms, PMC3

I got this to try it out and make a gift for someone Christmas. I watched several videos and read a few articles to get a rough idea of what to expect. First, it did come out of the package quite sticky. This was a little unexpected, but after a few minutes it started to dry a bit and felt just like clay. I found it easy to use playing cards and a rolling pin to roll it out. I used olive oil to lightly oil a ziploc bag I cut to remove the zip and open up the sides so I could place the clay inside and roll it easily to the thickness I wanted. I read somewhere to use 5 cards. I used 5 cards on both sides of the clay so the rolling pin produced a uniform thickness. Next, I used a heart shaped clay cutter that I lightly rubbed with olive oil. It worked to get the initial shape. Next, I used a set of sewing needles, wiped with olive oil, to shape, cut, and add details to the piece. I the used some water to put two pieces of clay together. Whatever clay I wasn't using for the piece I made sure it was repackaged in the package it came in so it didn't dry out. The piece dried within a day. Then, I fired it with a butane torch. The torch I used worked, but I sort of melted it from the prolonged use. I'd probably try a propane torch next time which should be better built for prolonged firing. PMC3 works nicely. It is forgiving. If it dries out you can add water. The best thing I learned was to use olive oil and lightly coat any surface or tool the clay was going to contact. Otherwise, it would stick and produce unwanted results. I'd assume any cooking oil would work. I just used a napkin with a bit of olive oil on it to wipe surfaces and tools. I used in on the ziploc, and on the foil I laid down to work the clay once it was rolled. The foil worked but I am not saying it is a recommended surface. It was just what I thought to use to try PMC3 out.

not good

Precious Metal Clay is remarkable stuff, and because PMC3 can be torch fired,it's the perfect choice for those who don't choose to invest in a kiln. Though I am not a silver smith, do not know how to solder, and have never taken a jewelry making classes, with PMC3 I can make stunning, unique fine silver pieces. You will love the versatility of this ingenious product! If this is your first time buying PMC3, consider purchasing one or more smaller quantity packages. Using it does involve a bit of a learning curve, a little goes a long way, and unused metal clay tends to dry up quickly once opened.

love the product but you can buy this cheaper like $10 cheaper on firemountaingems.com. just fyi

Much, MUCH less product than I expected. I could barely make 2 small pendants, which is disappointing because I was hoping this would be a new hobby.

I've used "Art Clay Silver" prior to this, so I'm going to illustrate some of the differences: PMC3 has a gummier texture than Art Clay, which I actually like about it, Art Clay has a slightly thinner, more grainy texture, but I found the PMC slightly easier to model with. They both dry at around the same speed. PMC3 and Art Clay Silver will torch-fire the same way, I keep mine at a "peachy glow" for about 3 minutes and it always comes out solid, PMC seems to glow a little brighter even though I'm using the same temperature. I found the PMC warped slightly more than the Art Clay if I started with a flat piece. The warp wasn't drastic but it was noticeable. PMC3 shrinks significantly more than Art Clay. I press my silver clay into a silicone mold to get several pieces with the same design, and the PMC pieces are visibly smaller than the same piece in Art Clay, I'd say they're about 10% smaller. This isn't necessarily a disadvantage for everyone, just keep it in mind when you're working with it. Overall, I would use either product, but I have a slight preference for Art Clay Silver for the specific purpose I'm using it for. If you are freehand sculpting rather than using a mold, PMC3 might actually be better for you because of the texture.

I was initially reluctant to order a product with a stated 3 week lead time, but went ahead with the order based on the seller's rating. I was pleasantly surprised when I received the product after only a week and a half, meticulously packaged, and accompanied by a personal note from the seller wanting to make sure that everything arrived in order. If you are looking for a high quality product and reliable vendor, look no further.

One of the best Silver metal clays. PMC3 is popular due to it's low firing temp of 1110 F. That can be done stove top or using a kiln such as the PMC Silver Mini Pot Set . Please see my review on the PMC Silver Mini Pot Set available on Amazon as well. I've used PMC3 for years and the finished product looks and feels like traditional silver. It produces high detail and holds a fantastic polish.