How to Make Metal Tags for Crafts
Thanks to the invention of metal art clay, everyday crafters can make metal shapes and accessories at home. Metal art clay is essentially moldable clay that contains particles of metal and water. Once fired, the moisture in the clay evaporates to leave behind a dense metal mass. Metal art clay is available in silver, gold, copper, and bronze. Silver art clay, in particular, is a popular medium for creating simple metal tags or pendants for various craft projects.
Things You'll Need
- 20 grams low fire silver clay
- Mini letter stamps or decorative stamps
- Wet clay roller
- Exacto knife
- Playing cards
- Plastic wrap
- Nonstick surface
- Thin straw
- Sandpaper
Instructions
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1
Determine the desired thickness of the metal tag and approximate the same thickness with a stack of playing cards, about four to six cards high. Make two identical stacks, one for each end of the wet clay roller.
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2
Place the art clay on a nonstick surface and lay one of your card stacks on each side.
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3
Lay a sheet of plastic wrap over the clay to prevent the roller from sticking. If you don't have plastic wrap handy, grease your roller with cooking oil instead.
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4
Gently roll out the clay with a wet clay roller. Use the playing cards to gauge the thickness of your clay, assuring yourself of its evenness, and to steady the roller.
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5
Cut the clay into the shape of a tag using an exacto knife. You can prepare a cardboard template ahead of time to carve around if you don't feel comfortable with freehand.
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6
Punch a hole at the top to the tag shape with the end of a thin straw.
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7
Press mini letter stamps or decorative stamps into the face of the carved tag to apply a design.
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8
Follow the instructions included on the metal clay packaging for adequate drying time and firing instructions. In many cases a gas stovetop or gas torch can be used in place of a kiln.
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9
Polish the completed tag with sandpaper to remove the outer crystallized layer and bring the silver to the surface.
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Tips & Warnings
Study the packaging on the metal art clay before purchase so you fully understand the firing process and plan appropriately. Small jewelry kilns can be purchased through craft stores if necessary.
Keep a spray bottle of water nearby in case the clay dries out during handling. Mist the clay with water to keep it moist.
Store any unused clay in an airtight plastic bag immediately after opening the original packaging.
