How to Make a Gold Leaf Ornament
PMC, or precious metal clay, is a type of clay that is made of either gold or silver. You can shape it like you do regular clay, or paint it on an object with a brush to make a replica of the object, such as a gold leaf. Gold PMC is gold powder mixed with an organic binder. The binder burns away when the item is fired leaving only the gold behind.
Things You'll Need
- PMC gold
- Paint brush
- Distilled water
- 1 large leaf
- Jewelers torch
- Soldering pad
Instructions
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1
Choose a leaf that is not too dry, otherwise it will crumble while you are working it with the PMC. A leaf with obvious veins and ribs will transfer those details to the finished ornament.
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2
Mix the PMC gold with the distilled water until a slip is formed. Carefully paint the PMC over the leaf. Allow to dry completely then paint another coat of PMC on the leaf. Complete this process three to four times, adding more distilled water to the PMC as needed. Flip the leaf over and apply three to four coats of PMC to the back of the leaf. Allow the PMC to dry overnight.
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Gold PMC needs to be fired to burn off the organic material in the clay. This also burns away the leaf on the inside, leaving behind a delicate gold leaf ornament. It is recommended to fire PMC in an electric kiln at 1650F for 10 minutes. However, for most PMC hobbyists a kiln may not be available. If a kiln is not available, torch firing is the next best option.
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To torch fire, set the PMC covered leaf on a soldering pad. Heat the PMC evenly until it reaches a red glow. Maintain the red glow and hold the temperature for at least 4 minutes. Allow the piece to cool.
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You can now buff and polish your gold leaf ornament as you would any delicate gold piece and string it up if you wish.
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Tips & Warnings
You can reconstitute dried, unfired PMC with distilled water.
Wear goggles and protective gloves when firing with a torch. Do not touch PMC after firing until it has completely cooled.
