Metal Clay Heads

Last Chance My Valentine

2012-02-06T19:57:00.005-05:00

Check out this lovely MCHs team treasury created by Lynn Cobb. She handpicked a list of precious gifts just in time for your Valentine. Grab one before it's too late!

Congrats to Jennifer

2012-01-16T18:17:00.005-05:00

Who won our December blog giveaway! Jennifer will receive the beautiul Silver Fern Leaf Necklace from Janie of Life Art Designs. Thanks to all who entered. Stay tuned for our next blog giveaway!

Want to Know Who Won Our Sea & Sky Challenge?

2011-12-16T20:06:00.008-05:00

Who did you vote for? Did she win? Find out now! Here are the results:

By Popular Vote:
1) Night sky pendant -- Envydesignsjewelry with 13 votes
2) Sunset Necklace -- SparkleBeeDesigns with 9 votes
3) Amazonite Fine Silver Pendant -- Vaasvara with 5 votes

By Technical Vote:
1) Amazonite Fine Silver Pendant -- Vaasvara with 8 votes
2) Dream Cloud Silver Ring -- YorkAvenueStudio with 3 votes
2) Night sky pendant -- Envydesignsjewelry with 3 votes
2) Sunset Necklace -- SparkleBeeDesigns with 3 votes

Overall (based on percentage recalculation of the two above):
1) Night sky pendant -- Envydesignsjewelry
2) Amazonite Fine Silver Pendant -- Vaasvara
3) Sunset Necklace -- SparkleBeeDesigns

Congrats to Envydesignsjewelry! Who won by a slight advantage based on the popular vote! Vaasvara did a great job as a new challenger! Thank you for all who entered and voted. Don't forget we've a blog giveaway going on that you can enter and win:
http://metalclayheads.blogspot.com/2011/12/you-are-only-limited-by-your.html

You are only limited by your imagination and skill level. - Janie

2011-12-14T22:52:00.021-05:00

MCHs December featured metal clay artist is Janie of Life Art Designs.

Janie is a metal clay and polymer clay artist in one. Her special theme is nautical with lots of dolphins, sea turtles, palm trees and marine creatures. Her Etsy shop also offers a variety of polymer clay creations - buttons, canes, beads plus more. Following is a short interview with Janie. Enjoy!

Why did you pick the name Life Art Designs?
My work is mostly inspired by the marine life and nature found in my local environment. I live on a very small barrier Island in the Gulf of Mexico in the USA. There is much art to be found in the life around me. My favorite marine lives are the Dolphins. You can probably tell this by the different ones that I have in my Etsy shop.

What are the major challenges when creating metal clay jewelry?
Of course the first challenge is the design aspect of any piece and the process you go through to make it become “art”. Probably my biggest challenge though has to do with the nature of the clay itself. The fact that it dries out so fast can be an irritant especially if you are working on a complex piece.

What do you enjoy most about working in Metal Clay?
The design possibilities with metal clay are endless because it is clay and is malleable. You are only limited by your imagination and skill level.

What is your greatest ambition as a Metal Clay artist?
I would like to one day have my work published in Art Jewelry magazine. I have drooled over and been amazed at the work that is published in their magazine for years.

What is the biggest mistake you've ever made? What did you learn from it?
One time I had a custom order request for a very large pair of earrings of an exact design. After the client told me what she wanted, I explained to her that they would be quite heavy and very, very expensive. In fact, they were a $300 pair of earrings! She said she understood and wanted them anyway. I had her try one earring on before I finished them both. I figured if they were too heavy, I could still use the one as a pendant. After trying the one on, she was thrilled and wanted me to proceed. After the order was complete, the client was ecstatic with how they turned out and thanked me profusely. However, about a month later she contacted me. She said that although she loved the earrings, they were just too heavy to wear for any length of time. I ended up making a whole new pair of the same design only smaller and lighter. Now, she is really happy and wears them all the time. And I have two large pendants of the same design. What I learned from that is that sometimes you need to say no to a customer. Just because you can make something doesn’t mean you should.

Janie is giving away her Silver Fern Leaf Necklace to a lucky reader!. To enter the giveaway, here are the rules:

Every person is eligible to enter the blog giveaway with up to FOUR (4) entries. How can you get an entry? You can do any of the following and then let us know that by leaving a comment under this feature so we can keep track.

1. Follow our blog and post a comment here = 1 entry
2. Check out featured artist and post favorite piece under comment here = 1 entry
3. Heart featured artist’s shop and post a comment here = 1 entry
4. Follow featured artist on Facebook and post a comment here = 1 entry
5. Make a purchase and let us know here = 2 entries
6. Refer a friend and post a comment here = 1 entry
7. Tweet about the giveaway using key word metalclayheads and post a comment here = 1 entry
8. Share the Metal Clay Heads blog giveaway link on FB (Go to http://www.facebook.com/MetalClayHeadTeam and click Share) and post a comment here = 1 entry
9. If you voted and commented on our last challenge = 1 entry

The giveaway deadline is January 15. We will announce the winner on January 16th. Good luck!

Sea and Sky Challenge

2011-12-01T02:30:00.001-05:00

This is our last challenge of 2011 and boy-oh-boy, it is hard! I'm so thrilled to have so many fabulous entries from the MCHs. You rock! The challenge theme this time is Sea and Sky, with the required technical skill of using bezel or prong setting. Here are the beautiful entries:

Dream Cloud Silver Ring from YorkAvenueStudio

Fine silver Dream Cloud ring with genuine Citrine gemstone. I selected a delicate pale yellow Citrine gem because it was perfect to showcase the color and shine of this ring. I've antiqued the detail of the cloud to show darker contrast and used a rainbow patina for some blue hues on the prong setting. The Citrine gem reflects the blues which adds to the uniqueness of this design. More ...

Amazonite Fine Silver Pendant from Vaasvara

Sky, Water and Earth come together in harmony in this completely handcrafted fine silver pendant. Stylish and organic, the pendant is hand-sculpted, hand-textured, antiqued and polished. Hangs from a sterling silver rollo chain, punctuated with beautiful green color chrysoprase and sunstone beads. The texture is made from a mold of real coral, thus representing the deep seas. More ...

Sunset (Handmade OOAK Necklace with Hessonite Garnet, Oregon Sunstone, and Silver) from SparkleBeeDesigns

A glowing hessonite garnet sun pendant handmade in fine silver. This one of a kind pendant will remind you of the most beautiful sunset. Each ray of the sun was hand cut without any templates or guides. The half loop at the top is fine silver with a hammered texture. The pendant is suspended by two tiny high quality Oregon sunstones. More ...

Night sky pendant, handmade fine silver, red pearl, ruby, moonstone necklace - OOAK-Twilight from Envydesignsjewelry

Gazing out of the window on the night sky, the moon hanging low over the sea, with the red glow of Mars in the distance. This moonlight pendant is sculpted of recycled silver, from a lino-carving I made. More ...

From Sea to Shore - Dichronic Glass in Fine Silver Necklace from Lifeartdesigns

From sea to shore. A large blue dichronic glass cabachon set into a texturized fine silver pendant. This is one of my handcrafted fine silver pendants made from silver metal clay. A large round blue dichronic cabachon is the focal point of this fine silver pendant. More ...

Amethyst and Precious Metal Clay Necklace from Heartsabustin

February's birthstone set in sterling silver and backed by fine silver from precious metal clay. I created the back of the pendant from ArtClay SlowDry 650, a form of precious metal clay. I texturized it with a handmade texture plate I created from polymer clay, and fired it. I formed a bezel and edged it with more precious metal clay. More ...

Amethyst twilight mist silver necklace from StuckOnSilver

Amethyst cushion cut stone in a rustic fine silver prong setting. The lavender amethyst gemstone measures approx. 8x10 mm and the pendant with the bail measures approx. 10x20 mm. More ...

The public poll on the right is open for two weeks. The technical poll, also open for two weeks, is restricted to MCHs team members only. Enjoy and don't forget to vote! Please cast your vote on the right column; and if you post a comment, you will be automatically entered into our December blog giveaway. Polls will be close on December 14th.

Sea & Sky Challenge Technical Poll

2011-12-01T02:00:00.003-05:00

For MCHs only. Thanks!
View Survey

Gift Guide for Mothers

2011-11-28T17:54:00.003-05:00

Don't forget the most wonderful person on earth - your hardworking mother who deserves a nice gift this season as well!

Gift Guide for Nature Lover

2011-11-26T21:31:00.004-05:00

Season changes four times every year, but our love for nature never change! Enjoy this collection of nature inspired artisan handmade jewelry.

Gift Guide for under $50 from the MCHs

2011-11-25T16:19:00.008-05:00

Handmade artisan gifts for under $50. You will find something perfect for your F&F.

It's time of the year to celebrate and share.

2011-11-23T00:05:00.011-05:00

The Metal Clay Heads are busy spending precious time with their families, but also passing on the joy of sharing by offering great discount or free shipping or both to our lovely customers at the same time. All our metal clay pieces are handmade with recycled metal which is eco-friendly. Make someone feel special this Holiday by giving OOAK handmade metal clay items today!

Here are a list of participated MCHs offering discount/free shipping or both. Each shop offers different discount, please look for related info on the announcement section. Use promotional code "mchs2011" (or refer to individual shop for the code) while check out. Promotion offer starts Black Friday.

ArtisanSilver -- 10% off
Envydesignsjewelry -- 10% off
FacciaFelice -- Free US shipping
Fishbonesilver -- Free US shipping
Heartsabustin-- 20% off
HGWjewelrydesigns -- Free US shipping
KRINLOX -- 10% off
Lynncobb -- Free shipping and a free Sunshine polishing cloth for purchases of $50 or more.
PPennee -- 10% off
PrairieMudStudio -- Free US shipping
SeavBeach -- Free US shipping
SparkleBeeDesigns -- Free US shipping
StuckOnSilver -- 10% off
Willowandme -- 10% off
YorkAvenueStudio -- 50% off orders over $200

It's snoooooooooowing!

2011-11-02T21:05:00.005-04:00

Kathy from YorkAvenueStudio recently blogged about creative snowflake jewelry from the MCHs! Click on the link to her blog post -- Snowflake Jewelry - Frosty Fun Fashion Must Haves to drool!

Gorgeous pieces inspired by nature. Are you ready to feel the snow?

Congrats to AMIdesigns!

2011-10-28T13:54:00.005-04:00

YOU WON! Thanks for entering our October blog giveaway AMIdesigns, you won the beautiful Silver Coral Post Earrings from AliBaliJewellery! Please let us know your contact info so Ali can send you the pretties! Thanks to everyone who entered!

Inspired by Nature. Achieved by Metal Clay.

2011-10-13T10:00:00.001-04:00

MCHs October featured metal clay artist is Ali of AliBaliJewellery.

Across the Pond comes metal clay artist Ali Reid. Ali started out as a silversmithing student and achieved her goal as a full time artist creating metal clay jewelry in just a couple of years. Ali signature style is clean, simple lines, with much of her inspiration coming from the flora and fauna of Scotland. The rainbow patina she created on her jewelry is truly amazing! Let's grab a cup of tea and enjoy our interview with Ali.

When did you first become interested in Metal Clay? How long have you been designing jewelry using Metal Clay?
I first became aware of Metal Clay in 2007. I had just started a silver smithing evening class and ventured into the local bead shop to get some beads to adorn my designs. They were running metal clay classes and I decided to sign up for a three hour beginner’s course.

What was your first piece of Metal Clay jewelry?
The first piece I made was a heart shaped textured pendant and matching earrings. I made these at the course and was instantly hooked on metal clay! I attended a few more courses to learn to make rings and hollow objects. I’ve also been lucky enough to attend masterclasses by Sherri Haab and Gordon K Uyehara when they visited Scotland.

What inspires you?
My inspiration comes mainly from the flora and fauna of Scotland. Most of pieces are influenced by or created using natural objects.

Why did you design the giveaway piece? What is special about your giveaway piece?
My giveaway piece is inspired by beautiful coral rock pools which can be found on the Isle of Skye. I was attracted to the many colors in the rock pools and my coral range was designed with these images in mind. The little earrings I’m giving away are by far my best sellers, both online and at craft fairs. Fortunately I never get tired of making them and every pair is absolutely unique!

What do you enjoy most about working in Metal Clay?
I love texture and Metal Clay is just fantastic to work with, textures which would be impossible to produce in sterling silver, can be created with ease using Metal Clay. I carry a little amount of two part molding compound around with me, you never know when you might spot an interesting texture!

What is your greatest ambition as a Metal Clay artist?To continue to be fortunate enough to make my living as a metal clay artist! I started working full time as a metal clay artist in December 2009 and was lucky enough to hit the ground running as the Christmas rush kicked in! I’ve steadily built my business, expanding from just selling online and at craft fairs, to starting to supply shops and galleries. I will be doing my first trade fair in January 2012. That aside, I also want to organise myself sufficiently to create time to spend designing new and more challenging pieces, continuing to play and enjoy metal clay!

Ali is giving away a pair of her beautiful Silver Coral Post Earrings to a lucky reader!. To enter the giveaway, here are the rules:

Every person is eligible to enter the blog giveaway with up to FOUR (4) entries. How can you get an entry? You can do any of the following and then let us know that by leaving a comment under this feature so we can keep track.

1. Follow our blog and post a comment here = 1 entry
2. Check out featured artist and post favorite piece under comment here = 1 entry
3. Heart featured artist’s shop and post a comment here = 1 entry
4. Follow featured artist on Facebook and post a comment here = 1 entry
5. Make a purchase and let us know here = 2 entries
6. Refer a friend and post a comment here = 1 entry
7. Tweet about the giveaway using key word metalclayheads and post a comment here = 1 entry
8. Share the Metal Clay Heads blog giveaway link on FB (Go to http://www.facebook.com/MetalClayHeadTeam and click Share) and post a comment here = 1 entry
9. If you voted and commented on our last challenge = 1 entry

The giveaway will run for two weeks. We will announce the winner on October 28th. Good luck!

September Challenge Results!

2011-10-03T16:16:00.008-04:00

Our challenge theme this time is "In The Garden" and the technical requirement is adding colors to the metal clay piece. Here are the results:

By Popular Vote:

1) Down in New Orleans VI -- Stardust with 30 votes
2) Handmade Autumn Silver Dragonfly Necklace -- Envydesignsjewelry with 18 votes
3) Large Spider Earring -- AnnaSiivonen with 9 votes
4) Bronze Flower Necklace -- PrairieCoastArt with 4 votes

By Technical Vote:

1) Handmade Autumn Silver Dragonfly Necklace -- Envydesignsjewelry with 7 votes
2) Down in New Orleans VI -- Stardust with 4 votes
3) Bronze Flower Necklace -- PrairieCoastArt with 2 votes
4) Large Spider Earring -- AnnaSiivonen with 1 vote

Overall (based on percentage recalculation of the two above):

1) Handmade Autumn Silver Dragonfly Necklace -- Envydesignsjewelry (30%/50%)
2) Down in New Orleans VI -- Stardust (49%/29%)
3) Large Spider Earring -- AnnaSiivonen (15%/1%)
3) Bronze Flower Necklace -- PrairieCoastArt (1%/14%)

Jennifer of Envydesignsjewelry is our winner because she won 50% of the technical vote. Alice of Stardust was really close to winning, just 2% behind! We also have a tie on the third place. I can't wait to see what theme Jennifer will pick for our next challenge in November. Thank you for your participation!

September Challenge - In The Garden

2011-09-19T14:15:00.000-04:00

Before you even knew it, it's our September challenge time! This time it is more exciting than ever since we've many first timers and new members who has entered a piece of their amazing work! Our September Challenge Theme is "In The Garden". The technical requirement is add colors to your design. Here are the entries:

Down in New Orleans VI from Stardust

I'm not going to lay down in words the lure of this place. Every great writer in the land, from Faulkner to Twain to Rice to Ford, has tried to do it and fallen short. It is impossible to capture the essence, tolerance, and spirit of south Louisiana in words. —Chris Rose More ...

Bronze Flower Necklace from PrairieCoastArt

Beautiful handcrafted bronze flower pendant with patina finish. Antique brass 18" necklace. A striking combination of colors. More ...

Maple Seed & Garnet CZ Pendant from StuckOnSilver

These are nicer in a pendant where they behave themselves than in my garden! This pendant features a faceted garnet cz nestled in a cluster of those intrepid little "helicopters" that twirl from maple trees. The replicas are made from my own molds made from rascally seeds I picked up in my front yard. More ...

Mother Earth's Autumn Gift from Adornyourself

Raw Brass disc, Hadar J's copper leaf, enamels, and gold luster. Torch fired. More ...
Handcrafted Flower Necklace from Lifeartdesigns

A handcrafted flower necklace completed handmade from scracth out of fine silver metal clay and polymer. The focal point of this necklace is the flowers and floral theme. Yellow and purple flowers intermingle into a base of deep pink polymer clay. More ...

Princess Ai Heart Locket from Rainjewelry

I would use fine silver for the locket part (it would not open) and the lock, sterling silver chain wrapped around the locket and the necklace and a red cubic zirconium heart for the stone. I can tarnish the piece a mellow gold color. More ...

Large Spider Earring from AnnaSiivonen

One large spider single earring. Dangles with one leg piercing your ear and he´s hypoallergenic since his legs are made of titanium. Might be the coolest or creepiest earring ever, garanteed to make heads turn. More ...

Fine Silver Enamel Pendant Seed Bead Necklace from DesignsbyHarriet

This pure silver triangular shaped pendant has a raised circle in the center with swirls of aqua/green enamel. The swirl design on the triangle is oxidized to bring out the pattern.
The necklace is made of large green and yellow seed beads separated by small irridescent gold seed beads and clear long beads. More ...

Last Bud Pendant from Seavbeach

These are the last buds of summer. Made with steel clay and enameled buds. More ...

Handmade Autumn Silver Dragonfly Necklace from Envydesignsjewelry

A beautiful fall colored fine silver dragonfly, flitting through the garden...
I started by carving my design into a rubber block, pressed the clay into the design, then refined, set the gemstones and fired the dragonfly. Set into the pendant are 2 each of Yellow sapphire, alexandrite, and amethyst CZ's. I added a swirl and dots the the back of the piece as well. More ...

The public poll on the right is open for two weeks. The technical poll, also open for two weeks, is restricted to MCHs team members only. Enjoy and don't forget to vote! Please cast your vote on the right column; and if you post a comment, you will be automatically entered into our October blog giveaway. Poll will be close on October 2nd.

September Challenge Technical Poll

2011-09-19T14:14:00.002-04:00

Restricted to MCHs only.

&amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://3301821.polldaddy.com/s/in-the-garden-technical-poll"&amp;amp;amp;gt;View Survey&amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;gt;

This is where we turn our creative juice into juicy creations! Part 3

2011-09-02T15:28:00.004-04:00

MCHs Bench Roll Call Mini Series Part III

Storage Solutions in the Studio - Janie of Life Art Designs

I recently began reorganizing my studio. I work in different mediums such as silver clay, polymer clay, and sometimes resin. This can lead to a lot of disorganization due to all the different materials involved. I separated my space into three separate work areas. One area for polymer clay, one for metal clay, and a third area for tumbling, buffing and polishing, and assembling jewelry. More ...

Who won the FLY pendant?

2011-08-29T23:38:00.004-04:00

The result is in! Kathy of YorkAvenueStudio won our August blog giveaway! Congrats!

Thanks to our featured Metal Clay Heads Lesley of Thoughtfully Adorned who sponsored the giveaway. Our next blog giveaway has been scheduled for Octobler. Our featured artist will be AliBaliJewellery. Please stay tuned!

Coming up is our September challenge. Both public and technical polls should be up mid-September. Can't wait to see what wonderful creations the MCHs come out with.

Sprinkle Your Home and Self with Thoughtful Adornments

2011-08-11T18:37:00.029-04:00

MCHs August featured metal clay artist is Lesley of Thoughtfully Adorned.

Lesley described herself as "a thinker and lover of beautiful words and sayings." Her jewelry are beautifully adorned by positive words, affirmations, and positive symbols -- which would inspire or touch you in a positive way.

Why did you pick the name Thoughtfullyadorned?
I decided to call my shop "Thoughtfully Adorned" because I love making pieces of jewelry or art that either inspires or speaks something for the person wearing it. I have always loved words, quotes, positive symbols and things that I can see around me to remind me that all is good and to breathe! Thoughtful pieces ... I liked that ... so I added adornment and it just kinda felt right to me.

When did you first become interested in Metal Clay? How long have you been designing jewelry using Metal Clay?
I have been working with metal clay since about May of last year. I had a book about it for a couple of years and I kept looking at it thinking I would try it some day. So, one day, I just decided to start the process. I started buying supplies slowly and some PMC3. My first pieces were supposed to be leaf shaped earrings -- "supposed to be" lol. I torched them to death! I did not understand the torch process. I finally learned to do it in a darkened room so I could see the orange and to move the torch around! I was so thrilled when I made a real piece of silver jewelry. It was a round pendant with a bird on it with the words "FLY" I made it for my mother as she works at the local tiny airport and actually took flying lessons in the past. She loved it! I used polymer clay first to figure out how to construct it!

What do you enjoy most about working in Metal Clay?
I guess what I love most about working with metal clay is that it is a clay and can be molded, shaped, cut and designed and there are hardly any limitations. I love all the processess and techniques that one can learn. I love cracking the code of new processes -- but it can take me a while to do that! LOL

Would you tell us your creative process?
My creative process starts with an idea and may stay in my head for weeks to months. I have a copper elephant right now that has been fired and is awaiting a silver overlay -- something I have never done. So, I get a little overwhelmed with a new process and I have to read about it-see videos-talk to other metal clay artists on line and get some courage. I'm not advanced at all in this medium -- I find it hard to find the time to learn everything I want to learn since I work full time as a Registered Nurse/marketer in healthcare.

What inspires you?
I am so inspired by the many artists that you can find on the internet -- not just jewelry artists but mixed media, photographers -- so many! I am inspired by heart warming stories of people who do what they love and love what they do.

Why did you design the giveaway piece? What is special about your giveaway piece?
I'm giving away the "FLY" pendant that is like the one I gave my mother. I hope that whoever wins it is inspired to take off and "Fly" and be free to do what they love and push on! Thanks so much for featuring me on this blog. All of the artists here just amaze me!!!

To enter the giveaway, here are the rules:

Every person is eligible to enter the blog giveaway with up to FOUR (4) entries. How can you get an entry? You can do any of the following and then let us know that by leaving a comment under this feature so we can keep track.

1. Follow our blog = 1 entry
2. Check out featured artist and post favorite piece on the blog = 1 entry
3. Heart featured artist’s shop = 1 entry
4. Follow featured artist on Facebook = 1 entry
5. Make a purchase = 2 entries
6. Refer a friend = 1 entry
7. Tweet about the giveaway using key word metalclayheads = 1 entry
8. Share the Metal Clay Heads blog giveaway link on FB (Go to http://www.facebook.com/MetalClayHeadTeam and click Share) = 1 entry
9. If you voted and commented on our last challenge = 1 entry

The giveaway will run for two weeks. We will announce the winner on August 29th. Good luck!

This is where we turn our creative juice into juicy creations! Part 2

2011-08-11T18:12:00.009-04:00

MCHs Bench Roll Call Mini Series Part II

Room to Think (Studio Makeover) - Jennifer of JKistlerStudios

I love garage sales (AKA yard sales). I love scoring a great deal on something I need or can use that otherwise I couldn't afford to buy. A few weekends ago I saw a dining room table that just shouted "work table!" to me. As in, "I would feel like such a professional working at this table!" It's dark wood, one piece (no annoying opening for leaves), and has a bit of successful-CEO-desk vibe to it (at least compared to my other studio tables). More ...

Jennifer Wins Our July Challenge

2011-08-04T17:03:00.005-04:00

Congrats to Jennifer of Envy Designs Jewelry who won our July Magical and Mysterious Challenge.

Here are the results:

By Popular Vote:

1) Egyptian 'Book of the Dead' pendant from Envy Designs Jewelry with 31 votes
2) Tiny Secret Fine Silver Real Maple Leaf Necklace from York Avenue Studio with 19 votes
3) Secret Door Locket from Seavbeach with 16 votes

By Technical Vote:

We've a tie this time:

1) Tiny Secret Fine Silver Real Maple Leaf Necklace from York Avenue Studio with 3 votes
1) Alutiiq Petroglyph Bracelet from Stuck on Silver with 3 votes
2) Secret Door Locket from Seavbeach with 2 votes
2) Egyptian 'Book of the Dead' pendant from Envy Designs Jewelry with 2 votes

Overall (based on percentage recalculation of the two above):

1) Egyptian 'Book of the Dead' pendant from Envy Designs Jewelry
2) Tiny Secret Fine Silver Real Maple Leaf Necklace from York Avenue Studio
3) Secret Door Locket from Seavbeach

Jennifer will pick a theme for our next challenge in September. Our August blog feature + giveaway is coming soon, please stay tuned! Thanks to all who's voted and supported the MCHs!

This is where we turn our creative juice into juicy creations!

2011-08-01T19:43:00.005-04:00

MCHs Bench Roll Call Mini Series Part I

It could be the kitchen countertop ... it could be an old hand-me-down desk ... it could be an iron desk from the corner office ... No matter what it is, we jewelry artists call it the bench -- our little piece of heaven where we spend hours after hours perfecting our jewelry. It could be neat and tidy but many times it's quite messy.

Let's show you where we turn our inspirations into reality!

My Fabulous Work Station! -- Dawn of DaVoria Jewelry

I fell in love with this hoosier cabinet when my husband and I were browsing in an antique shop a few weeks ago. I had been wanting one for the longest time to use as my work station. More ...

Magical and Mysterious Treasury

2011-07-28T08:26:00.004-04:00

heartsabustin created a Treasury with the theme Magical and Mysterious to showcase the entrants in our hinge technique Design Challenge.

http://www.etsy.com/treasury/NjAxODMyOHw1MDM4OTg4NTE

Go give us some love!

July Challenge - Magical and Mysterious

2011-07-20T13:57:00.017-04:00

Ah ... it's Summer! And I guess many of us Metal Clay Heads are busy with vacation, activities and sunbathing; therefore, we have less number of entries this time. But they're of much higher craftsmanship than ever before! Our theme this time is set by last challenge winner Anise of Seavbeach -- Magical and Mysterious. The technical challenge is using hinge(s) as part of the design. Here they are:

Tiny Secret Fine Silver Real Maple Leaf Necklace from York Avenue Studio

I used real Maple leaves for this design, which is a lovely pendant with a hidden treasure of gems on the back. The front is a gorgeous Maple leaf curled naturally with an antique silver finish. The back has two tiny Maple leaves on a hinge that lifts to reveal the secret stash of Alexandrite. More...

Secret Door Locket from Seavbeach

"When one door closes another door opens; but we so often look so long and so regretfully upon the closed door, that we do not see the ones which open for us."
-Alexander Graham Bell More...

Alutiiq Petroglyph Bracelet from Stuck on Silver

Hinged fine silver bracelet celebrating five expressive Alutiiq faces from petroglyphs found in the Kodiak, Alaska, archipelago. Approximately 27 grams of fine silver. 7"x 5.4" with jump ring and S-hook findings. More...

Egyptian 'Book of the Dead' pendant from Envy Designs Jewelry

This pendant is made from recycled silver to represent the 'Book of the Dead', and has the raised form of Anubis, the god of the afterlife, who after death would lead the deceased to the scales of justice, to weigh your heart against the 'feather of truth' to determine you worthiness (represented on the inside front page) to move on the the afterlife and meet with Isis and Osiris. More...

The public poll on the right is open for two weeks. The technical poll, also open for two weeks, is restricted to MCHs team members only. Enjoy and don't forget to vote! Please cast your vote on the right column; and if you post a comment, you will be automatically entered into our August blog giveaway. Poll will be close on August 3rd.

July Challenge Technical Poll

2011-07-20T13:50:00.005-04:00

This technical poll is restricted to MCHs only. Thanks!

Click here to take survey

Congrats to Beachshopgirl!

2011-06-30T14:39:00.004-04:00

You won our June blog giveaway! You will receive the Love Birds pendant from our metal clay artist Michelle of The Tarnished Halo. Please contact us with your info as soon as you can! Special thanks to Michelle who give away the beautiful pendant, you can check out her vintage and romantic art pieces here.

MCHs Need Your Vote to Win the Handmadelogy Top 10!

2011-06-23T13:21:00.003-04:00

Click on the list on top and vote for us today!

Hopelessly Romantic with a Vintage Flair

2011-06-15T12:42:00.016-04:00

MCHs June featured metal clay artist is Michelle of The Tarnished Halo.

After falling head over heels in love with precious metal clay, Michelle has created so many unique wearable art with a touch of vintage flair. Vintage is after all her first love besides her pal friends. Wonder why she picked the name The Tarnished Halo? Want to know what inspires her? Read on...

What is your greatest ambition as a Metal Clay Artist?
I think my greatest ambition as a Metal Clay Artist would be to be featured in a magazine, and be able to turn The Tarnished Halo into more than just a hobby. I would love the opportunity if it should present itself to be able to enjoy making really special pieces for people full-time. Everything about making individual pieces and custom pieces just simply fills me with joy!

What inspires you?
I’m inspired by nature, and human connections most of all. I’m a hopeless romantic, and believe in true love, and that it will conquer all. Like my love birds pendants, I believe that there is a soulmate out there for everyone. I love the shape of a circle, it is the happiest and friendliest shape, and a perfect symbolism that everything is connected, and that everything will always come full circle.

When did you first become interested in Metal Clay? How long have you been designing jewelry using metal clay.
I first became interested in Metal Clay on September 17th, 2010. I remember the day very clearly, I was working on stamping some silver disks when I ran across Metal Clay jewelry on Etsy.com. I was simply head over heels with it, and knew that I wanted to be able to make it, I just didn’t know how to begin! So, my husband and I went to the bookstore and I would eat, sleep and dream about being able to get to the point of making clay pieces. For Christmas my in-laws and my husband surprised me with a kiln, and a stock pile of clay supplies! It wasn’t until two weeks later that I mustered up the courage to try it, and wah lah…I simply fell head over hills in love with every aspect of creating really unique pieces of jewelry, and then I just kept moving forward!

Why did you pick the name The Tarnished Halo?
I was actually brainstorming with a friend of mine and trying to come up with something really unique. I love the description of “tarnished” and then it kind of took on a life of its own with a bit of a deeper meaning. I believe that when you really embrace that we are all imperfect, and perhaps a little tarnished and beat up on this journey that we call life, it adds character and strength to us. My jewelry isn’t perfect, and I think that is one of the beauties of making artisan jewelry is that it is as unique, and not commercial, but specially made for that special someone!

My first piece of Metal Clay jewelry was my bronze keyhole necklace. I was entirely too nervous to go with the silver for my first solo attempt!

Michelle is giving away the Eco-Friendly Tiny Love Birds necklace in recycled silver to a lucky winner this time!

To enter the giveaway, here are the rules:

Every person is eligible to enter the blog giveaway with up to FOUR (4) entries. How can you get an entry? You can do any of the following and then let us know that by leaving a comment under this feature so we can keep track.

1. Follow our blog = 1 entry
2. Check out featured artist and post favorite piece on the blog = 1 entry
3. Heart featured artist’s shop = 1 entry
4. Follow featured artist on Facebook = 1 entry
5. Make a purchase = 2 entries
6. Refer a friend = 1 entry
7. Tweet about the giveaway using key word metalclayheads = 1 entry
8. Share the Metal Clay Heads blog giveaway link on FB (Go to http://www.facebook.com/MetalClayHeadTeam and click Share) = 1 entry
9. If you voted and commented on our last challenge = 1 entry

The giveaway will run for two weeks. We will announce the winner on June 30th. Good luck!

Anise of Seavbeach Wins our May Team Challenge

2011-06-01T02:30:00.005-04:00

We'd absolutely stunning entries this time, thanks to all who participated and his/her great work! Here are the results by categories:

By Popular Vote:

1) Fairy House by DaVoria with 26 votes
2) Message in a Bottle by Seavbeach with 19 votes
3) Butterfly Chrysalis Necklace by Envydesignsjewelry with 13 votes

By Technical Vote:

1)Message in a Bottle by Seavbeach with 17 votes
2) Vila Queen by Stardust with 7 votes
2) Micro Bucket Bouquet Necklace by SparkleBeeDesigns with 7 votes

Overall (based on percentage recalculation of the two above):

1) Message in a Bottle by Seavbeach
2) Fairy House by DaVoria
3) Micro Bucket Bouquet Necklace by SparkleBeeDesigns

Congrats to Ansie of Seavbeach! It was a very closed call. Anise will have the honor of picking our next challenge theme! Thanks to all who voted!

Our June blog giveaway + feature is coming up soon, don't miss it!

Spring Awakenings with 3-D Technique

2011-05-18T10:00:00.000-04:00

MCHs Team May Challenge

I'm super psyched to see all the fabulous entries this time. These entries are entirely artistic inspirations from the special characteristic of precious metal clay - its versatility.

Here are the 12 entries from our very talented team members. The public poll is open for two weeks. The technical poll, also open for two weeks, is restricted to MCHs team members only. Enjoy and don't forget to vote! Please cast your vote on the right column; and if you post a comment, you will be automatically entered into our June blog giveaway. Poll will be close on May 31st.

Vila Queen ... OOAK Star Sapphire Pendant by Stardust

Vilas are said to be shamanic healing spirits, magical dancers, and woodland herbalists who guard women, animals, and the forest... more

Origami Cat with Silver Paper PMC by YorkAvenueStudio

Origami Cat with Silver Paper PMC - This cute snoozing kitty is in no rush to wake just yet. Spring is here and there is so much to explore, but still time for a little cat-nap! I folded this 3D kitty with Origami inspired by Master Tomoko's design and the kitty does stand up on her own! I added ... more

Solid Sterling Lambie Pendant by Rainjewelry

I sculpt this with fine silver and oxidize the face, feet and bow. I would make a simple loop bail... more

Daffodil Pin by Willowandme

I have been experimenting with combining bronze and copper and so decided to use both in this piece. Daffodils have always meant spring to me as they are the first to bloom in my garden and brighten it with the first colors of the year... more

Micro Bucket Bouquet Necklace (with Labradorite and Yellow Sapphire) by SparkleBeeDesigns

A very tiny handmade fine silver bucket with beautiful blue and yellow glass enameled flowers. HIdden inside the bucket are realistic polymer clay pebbles and "water" (clear resin) to keep the flowers fresh... more

Devil Rays by SweetleafSisterz

Well, this isn't exactly "spring", but the sea is the original site of new beginnings...

Copper Sculpted Flower Poppy Pendant Necklace by PrairieMudStudio

Copper metal clay has been sculpted into a simple poppy figure atop a rectangle base. The unique pendant hangs from a copper chain... more

Message in a Bottle by Seavbeach

This was hollow vessel with a floral design. The lid screws on and off to reveal a secret message inside. I started creating this piece especially for me on Mothers Day... more

Handmade Fine Silver Butterfly Chrysalis Necklace by Envydesignsjewelry

May the wings of the butterfly kiss the sun
And find your shoulder to light on,
To bring you luck, happiness and riches
Today, tomorrow and beyond.~Irish Blessing ... more

Spring Flip Flop Necklace In Fine Silver by Lifeartdesigns

Just in time for Spring and summer...This is a handcrafted flip flop necklace made from fine silver clay. Each flip flop was carved from fine silver clay and placed on an oval base also made from silver clay... more

Fairy House by DaVoria

This is the fairy house I made for the Fairy House Festival that takes place at Artpark in Lewiston NY this coming June. This pendant is made from pmc. I used a stamp that looks like stones for the floor... more

Silver and Amethyst Geode Egg Pendant by Somethingxtraspecial

This fine silver hollow egg, open at the top and filled with gorgeous amethyst coloured crystals is a unique way to wear a beautiful geode style pendant... more

Spring Awakenings Challenge Technical Poll

2011-05-18T09:53:00.004-04:00

This poll is open to MCHs members only.

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Capecodjewel Wins!

2011-05-07T09:58:00.006-04:00

Congrats to Linda/Capecodjewel who wins our April blog giveaway! She's also our #100 blog follower, thanks Linda for your devoted support! She will be receiving the Fancy Filigree pendant from Ghislaine of GS Creations.

Upcoming is our May team challenge and the theme is "3-D". Please stay tuned for our team members exciting creations and another chance to enter to our next blog giveaway in June.

Metal Clay Gives Free Reign to My Creativity - Ghislaine

2011-04-15T04:18:00.017-04:00

MCHs April featured metal clay artist is Ghislaine of GS Creations.

Ghislaine has been making bead jewelry for the past eight years. She started with beadweaving and now has ventured into precious metal clay, the new territory!

When did you first become interested in Metal Clay? How long have you been designing jewelry using Metal Clay?
I had read a little about it around three years ago and started working with it exactly one year ago in April! I had always used beads to make my jewelry and came to a point where I felt like I had learned all the stitches and techniques that I needed. I wanted a new challenge but something that I could still use my beads with (If you could see how many beads I have you would understand!).

Would you tell us your creative process?
I usually start out with a rough sketch of what I'd like to do. An idea will pop into my head at any time of day (or night when I'm desperately trying to fall asleep) so I always keep a sketch book with me. Often times though the piece will design itself. By that I mean that it starts out looking like the sketch and as I'm working new ideas start to flow into the piece. As new shapes take form and elements are added or removed the piece takes on a life of its own.

What inspires you?
These days I'm loving working with dichroic glass cabochons and they are a great source of inspiration. You will sometimes catch me sitting at my workbench just starring at my cabs or moving them around. Their shapes, colors, and designs "speak" to me.

What do you enjoy most about working in Metal Clay?
I love the freedom it gives me. You can mold it, you can carve it, you can even use water to shape it. It gives free reign to my creativity. I get great joy from being able to make a whole piece using a metal clay object as a centerpiece and beadweaving the rope.

What is your greatest ambition as a Metal Clay artist?
I would love to one day be able to live off my art. Making jewelry and art pieces has always been a passion but never as much as when I started to work with metal clay.

Ghislaine's creative art pieces can be found here. She's giving away this beautiful Fancy Filigree pendant to a lucky winner! The piece measures approximately 1.3" in height and width. And is adorned by a 3mm clear cubic zirconia.

To win the Fancy Filigree pendant, here are the rules:

Every person is eligible to enter the blog giveaway with up to FOUR (4) entries. How can you get an entry? You can do any of the following and then let us know that by leaving a comment under this feature so we can keep track.

1. Follow our blog = 1 entry
2. Check out featured artist and post favorite piece on the blog = 1 entry
3. Heart featured artist’s shop = 1 entry
4. Follow featured artist on Facebook = 1 entry
5. Make a purchase = 2 entries
6. Refer a friend = 1 entry
7. Tweet about the giveaway using key word metalclayheads = 1 entry
8. Share the Metal Clay Heads blog giveaway link on FB (Go to http://www.facebook.com/MetalClayHeadTeam and click Share) = 1 entry
9. If you voted and commented on our last challenge = 1 entry

The giveaway will run for two weeks. We will announce the winner on May 7th. Good luck!

Jennifer of EnvyDesignsJewelry Won Our March Challenge!

2011-04-06T01:01:00.007-04:00

Congrats to Jennifer of Envydesignsjewelry! Her The Sun shines through the Rain pendant swept us away and won both public and technical polls (with 22 public votes and 9 technical votes)!

Rain of Rainjewelry's Silver Ocean Waves Necklace came in second with 16 public and 5 technical votes.

Earth Goddess Amulet by YorkAvenueStudio came in third with 7 public votes.

Thanks to all members who entered and your vote, great job everyone! Jennifer will set the theme for our May challenge. Our blog feature and giveaway will start around April 15th, please stay tuned!

March Challenge - The Elements

2011-03-22T14:36:00.029-04:00

Our theme this time is The Elements - Water, Fire, Wind and Earth. The required technique is using syringe or snakes when creating the design. The theme and technique were set by our January challenge winner Ghislaine of GS Creations. Here are the eight stunning submissions from our talented members. Enjoy and don't forget to vote! Please cast your vote on the right column; and if you post a comment, you will be automatically entered into our December blog giveaway. Poll will be close on April 4th.

The Tree - silver pendant with tsavorite by Esmeralda of SilverBlueberry. The tree is one of our most powerful symbols representing Mother Earth, life, growth, stability and natural beauty. When faced with a team challenge from the MetalClayHeads team, where we had to make a piece of jewelry representing one or more of the elements (fire, water, earth and wind) I wanted to make a tree right away. Nothing represents 'earth' better than a tree.

Silver Ocean Waves Necklace by Rain of Rainjewelry. This fine silver barrel and tag pendant evokes the motion and fluidity of ocean water. I used syringe and snakes to make the swirly ocean look.I also used fire opals in the necklace so I guess it could be water and fire.

Wind pendant by Jennifer of JKistlerStudios. My element of choice was wind, on a stormy day. The wind was made using the syringe.

Copper Landscape Bracelet by Deb of PrairieMudStudio. This copper bracelet combines both earth and air elements as a tribute to wind energy as a new important "crop" in the rural Midwest. A landscape of modern wind turbines and the necessary gusts that move them contrasts with a subtle background texture created by cornhusks. It is part of the Cornstalk Series that was inspired by the rural landscape and my farming heritage.

Earth Goddess Amulet with Blue Sapphire Gemstone by Kathy of YorkAvenueStudio. I hand forged this pure silver pendant as a graceful feminine symbol of The Earth Goddess. Goddess Symbols can be seen throughout several beliefs and representations of the Elements, however, the most apparent aspect of the Goddess is the Earth Goddess. Her round belly represents motherhood and the fruits of nature. Her up stretched arms are holding a circle which represents the full moon. Her flowing locks of hair are made with the “snakes” technique and flow into spirals.

4 Elements pendant by Anise of Seavbeach. This piece reflects all four elements, air, fire, earth and water and the center within that brings it all together.

The Sun shines through the Rain fine silver necklace by Jennifer of Envydesignsjewelry. This piece was inspired by a favorite song by the rock band Cinderella, and was created for the Metal Clay Heads March challenge. The sun is shining through a rain drop, peeking out, wanting to come out.......
For this piece I rolled out a snake from the metal clay, shaped it into the rain drop, and let it dry. I then added the sun by using 5 layers of syringe clay. I filled in any gaps with more syringe clay and then sanded and filed till it was smooth. After everything was dry I added the sapphires, and a light blue spinel.

Silver Heart Pendant by Janie of Lifeartdesigns. A handcrafted fine silver heart shaped pendant with two silver scrolls and a smaller inset open heart in the center.

March 2011 Challenge Poll - Technical

2011-03-21T18:50:00.010-04:00

This poll is for MCHs members only. Please one vote per member. Thanks!

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Disaster Relief Effort for Japan

2011-03-18T09:36:00.003-04:00

The Metal Clay Heads are donating items for disaster relief efforts for Japan. Please stop by our Treasury on Etsy to help out!

http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4d834c787a4d6d915fa94dc5/metal-clay-heads-disaster-relief

Alexandra Digiorgio - You Won!

2011-02-25T14:21:00.008-05:00

Congrats to Alexandra Digiorgio who won our February Blog Giveaway! You will receive the Artisan Silver Horse Earrings made with earth-friendly silver from Kristan of SilverWishes.

Thanks everyone for their support. The MCHs team challenge is coming up next. Don't forget to come back and check out the amazing work from our team.

Alexandra, please contact us with your email so we can connect you with Kristan.

Life is Crazy Beautiful. - Kristan

2011-02-09T18:51:00.022-05:00

MCHs February Featured Artist Kristan of SilverWishes.

Metal Clay Artist Kristan's love for nature shines through her beautiful creations! Her style is nature-inspired and earthy -- leaves, trees, fishes, birds and her signature horses!

When did you first become interested/how long designing?
I became interested in silver clay when I read about a fascinating new material in an art magazine several years ago. I'm always eager to explore new techniques and art forms, so a friend and I took a class at the local art guild. I was hooked! I love exploring the many aspects of working with the clay; carving, sculpture, using leaves to make incredible impressions, design, form and function.

What was your first piece of metal clay jewelry?
Our first project for the class was a simple stamped charm. Of course, I had other ideas and launched into making beads! I eventually made a bracelet with them and it's still one of my favorite pieces to wear.

What is your greatest ambition as a metal clay artist?
To continually grow and challenge myself as an artist. Each new piece is my current favorite... until I start something new! I'm always challenging myself to try a new technique or style, sometimes discovering new methods and techniques in the process. My second greatest ambition is to keep our cats off of my worktables:)

What inspires you?
Everything! I'm always inspired by nature and horses, but I also find inspiration in random places; I keep a sketchbook and try to capture the ideas when they come. Often the original idea evolves into something much different. It's wonderful to look back through my book now and see all the ideas that have become beautiful pieces of jewelry! (And of course some ideas that will remain buried in the pages:)

Why did you pick the name SilverWishes?
That's one of those random flashes of inspiration! I'd spent days playing with different names only to discover that each was taken. It was getting pretty frustrating. One night I was mindlessly drawing in my sketchbook, thinking about art and the creative process and it just came to me. Divine inspiration!

What are the major challenges when creating metal clay jewelry?
Designing jewelry that is beautiful but also comfortable, durable and easy to wear. I can be pretty hard on my jewelry; I sometimes wear a piece for weeks or months at a time. I want it to be gorgeous and tough at the same time:)

Check out Kristan amazing work here today! Kristan is sponsoring our blog giveaway this month with her Artisan Silver Horse Earrings made with earth-friendly silver:

To win these unique earrings, here are the rules:

Every person is eligible to enter the blog giveaway with up to FOUR (4) entries. How can you get an entry? You can do any of the following and then let us know that by leaving a comment under this feature so we can keep track.

1. Follow our blog = 1 entry
2. Check out featured artist and post favorite piece on the blog = 1 entry
3. Heart featured artist’s shop = 1 entry
4. Follow featured artist on Facebook = 1 entry
5. Make a purchase = 2 entries
6. Refer a friend = 1 entry
7. Tweet about the giveaway using key word metalclayheads = 1 entry
8. Share the Metal Clay Heads blog giveaway link on FB (Go to http://www.facebook.com/MetalClayHeadTeam and click Share) = 1 entry
9. If you voted and commented on our last challenge = 1 entry

The giveaway will run for two weeks. We will announce the winner on February 25th. Good luck!

"My Favorite Place" Challenge Winner is ...

2011-01-30T15:32:00.007-05:00

Mother and Child Pendant by Ghislaine of GS Creations with 56 votes.

Palette Necklace by Dawn of DaVoria Jewelry came in second with 53 votes.

And Harp Necklace by Jennifer of Envy Designs Jewelry came in third with 31 votes.

Congrats to Ghislaine! Thanks to everyone who voted. The ones who posted a comment will be entered in to our February blog giveaway featuring Kristan of SilverWishes.

January Challenge: My Favorite Place

2011-01-16T09:28:00.000-05:00

Every other month we Metal Clay Heads do a challenge and the winner of a challenge sets the next. This challenge is: My Favorite Place, which was set by Jennifer of Envy Designs Jewelry. Our entries for the My Favorite Place challenge are below. Please vote for your favorite at the poll on the right side of the blog. Voting will end on January 29th.

Paris Earrings by Evelyn of Evelyn Pelati Jewelry: I wanted to go to Paris my whole life, and in 2008 I finally did! It was a dream trip and I loved it as much as I thought I would. I made these earrings featuring a tiny map of Paris in honor of that time.

Palette Necklace by Dawn of DaVoria Jewelry: For some reason when I see a painters palette it makes me feel so serene. It brings me to a place I love to be. It could be painting, drawing, quilting, giving a haircut accented with outstanding hilites, or, as of late, making jewelry with metal clay. To me the painters palette represents my creativity.

Mother and Child Pendant by Ghislaine of GS Creations: My favorite place is not a country nor a city, it is not a building nor is it a garden. My favorite place is wherever I can be with my son, especially snuggled up in the morning as he drinks his bottle. There, all my worries fade away and a certain calmness reigns over me. It is where I am the happiest and feel at peace with the world.

Sew Perfect Charm by Anise of SeavBeach Designs: My favorite place when I was a child was my mom's sewing box. It had many mysterious things inside. Bobbins, spools of thread, buttons, needles, vintage skeleton keys that went to locks in another land.

Fern Necklace by Esmerelda of SilverBlueberry: My favorite place is the forest and the garden, so I made two overlapping fern leaves soldered to a neck wire (clasp behind one leaf) and below hangs a beautiful idocrase drop cabochon, cut by Rod from FoxCabochons.

Pavillion with Persian Illumination by Laura of Zoeowyn: My favorite place is "far far away." I don't have a favorite physical location, it always tends to be "some place else" and definitely someplace ideal and perfect and exotic.

Mardi Gras Mask Pendant by Kathy of York Avenue Studio: My favorite place is New Orleans! There isn’t anywhere in the world that I would rather be than visiting the French Quarter. There are festivals almost daily for music, art, food, fun, history, etc Steering clear of Bourbon Street, I spend most of my visits there browsing unique shops that sell candles, art, perfume, jewelry and treats! There are so many amazing people that work and live there and I will never get bored of the jazzy sounds, the spicy smells of Cajun food, the Pecan Prailines, the Coffee Shops, the lush green foliage, even the muggy heat!

My Favorite Place Necklace by Lisa of Willow and Me Jewelry: When the challenge was set, I had just returned from a short family vacation at a beach in Alabama, that is one of my favorite places in the whole world. It has gorgeous white beaches, which are not packed with people, and warm Gulf of Mexico water. During this last trip, the beach was full of Portugese Man of Wars (Men of War?). Using a shell I found on this beach, I made a mold from which I made the base of this piece. Using texture, I tried to duplicate the look of a beach with shells, starfish and even a Portugese Man of War, made from a sapphire cabochon. The bottom portion of the pendant has been covered with resin to emulate the surf rolling in.

In the Garden Necklace by Erin of heartsabustin: In the dead of winter, I dream of my garden in the spring. The daffodils, the hydrangeas, and the lilies are all very special to me.

Harp Necklace by Jennifer of Envy Designs Jewelry: My favorite place is Ireland, where I spent my honeymoon, and returned to 7 years later. I fell in love with the people, the beauty, the music and the rich history Ireland is known for. The Harp is an ancient instrument that was used by the Bards of Ireland, whose history and stories were told with the accompaniment of beautiful harp music.

Bronze Flower Garden Pendant by Deb of Prairie Mud Studio: My favorite place has always been my family's farm - and this piece represents my mom's flower gardens and my dad's cornfields.

St. John Passion Pendant by Mary Lou of Sweetleaf Sisterz: The image on this pendant reminds me of St. John in the US Virgin Islands. It is one of my favorite places in the world. Sitting on the beach at night with rolling waves and the stars bright in the sky, there is no other place like it. This pendant of fine silver illustrates that vision. The surf is rolling below stars brilliant in the nighttime sky.

Please cast your vote on the right column; and if you post a comment, you will be automatically entered into our February blog giveaway.

How Cool is This!

2011-01-16T09:11:00.000-05:00

Thanks to Betty from Faccia Felice for her eagle eye! She found us as Blog of the Month in Beads and Beyond Magazine. This is so exciting! This blog is a team effort so we should all be very proud of ourselves!

Introducing: 14k Rose Gold Clay!!!!

2011-01-04T20:21:00.021-05:00

Exciting Precious Metal Clay Product of 2011

New Metal Clay Heads member, Michelle Glaeser, of mfglaeser has recently introduced 14k Rose Gold Clay to the Metal Clay community! We’ve asked her to provide some information of this exciting new product!

Why Rose Gold Clay? Why you?
There is silver clay, gold clay, bronze clay, copper clay, white bronze clay, steel clay, and stainless steel clay…where’s the rose gold?? I’ve never been a girly girl, but my pink skin-tone happens to lend itself well to the look of pink metals. I was excited with the introduction of copper clay to the market, but have had awful problems getting it to sinter properly! New copper clays have come out to solve this problem, but working with copper is still like playing with pennies! The finished copper product can even turn you green; the clay turns black if it isn’t wrapped up properly…too many problems! By having this gold product, you get the beautiful pink color, but none of the oxidation issues or greening of your skin!

Adding rose gold is always an option using traditional metalsmithing methods. But, I’ve found that traditional metal work is very difficult; takes a lot of strength and patience. Metal clay is clay. When I file it to shape, I use very little pressure and get significant results. When I took my first wire-working class, my instructor had to remind me that I was working with solid metal. Apparently delicately filing was not doing anything! Yellow gold clay has been on the market for a while, so why not Rose Gold Clay? I thought I could convince someone to make me Rose Gold Clay….

Luckily, Master Muse Donna Penoyer is in my local chapter of the PMC Guild, Metal Clay Western PA. She got us a few Rio Certification classes in 2010 with Tim McCreight! Since he is a consultant for Mitsubishi Materials, the makers of PMC products, I inquired about Rose Gold clay. It turns out there isn’t a market for it, so Mitsubishi has no interest in developing it. When Tim said it wouldn’t be happening, I started experimenting. I was so convinced I could do it,--that I built myself a PMC3 ring and stamped 999 and 14k inside! After a year of testing, I finally finished that ring!

Since I’m a small shop (and want it for my use), I think I can support the miniscule market that might exist! Etsy makes it easy to have the product available as well. If no one else interested, I didn’t invest my life savings into it! If there is a bigger market than Mitsubishi expects, then I’ll something to invest into advertising!

Are you worried others will copy your product?
To an extent I am, but honestly I just wanted someone else to make it for me. If it’s out there, I have no reason to go out and be the mad scientist. I have my formula carefully measured and constructed to be 14k Rose Gold. I’ve tried every mix of different products on the market, and have found that one manufacturer does not offer all the resources to create a successful Rose Gold Clay. While anyone can mix clays, the year of development I have put into the product takes away worries. It sinters fully, shines beautifully, and is 14k Rose Gold! Early tests were unsuccessful with firing. Getting little lava balls was not fun! Running them through pickle didn’t help because the craters were on the inside too! Firing in the carbon is successful, and doesn’t require pickling following firing. At the end of the day, I have my recipe that works and if someone wants to take over distribution, I am willing to let that happen. For now, it will remain a trade secret!

Does the Rose Gold Clay work like other clays? Can I fire the Rose Gold Clay with other clays at the same time?
Like other copper clays, it does need to be fired in carbon to prevent firescale. It’s also best to have a dedicated tool kit. I offer the whole set (clay, tools, firing vessel, and carbon) on my Etsy shop, so there is no worry about the right carbon or extra tools! When firing with other clays, I typically do them in separate steps, unless working with PMC PRO (which can be fired in the same step with slight modification to its firing schedule). The binders in silver and gold clays need to be fired in oxygen to get proper burn off of those binders. The Rose Gold Clay has essential oil in it to aid in joining to other fired clay (it also gives it a lovely scent). Tests have shown successful binding to PMC silver and PRO products! Since I do not typically work in Art Clay, I have not tested this combination yet, but do not expect adverse results.

Left: Rose Gold Clay with PMC Pro Clay before firing. Right: After kiln-fired, the Rose Gold Clay really shines!

How about shrinkage?
The shrinkage of the Rose Gold Clay is approximately 15% which is more than PMC+, PMC3, and many of the Art Clay products, but less than PMC PRO. This is another good reason to fire them in two separate steps. Since the cost of running a kiln is nearly equivalent to a hair drier (I believe Paragon has a formula to calculate your cost of firing), why not go the safe route?

What kinds of gemstones can I fire with the Rose Gold Clay?
Because it has to fire in carbon, Rose Gold Clay lends itself to be fired with diamonds! You might think diamonds are expensive to add to your jewelry, but you can get beautiful teeny ones for around $4! The diamond below was set with a traditional jeweler method, after firing. It is 1-point and difficult to work with! Smashing it in the clay and running it through the kiln is a much easier method than looking at it through a loupe! The 22k yellow gold clay must be fired in open air, so you do have a chance to lose your diamond. Rio Grande had done some tests previously where diamonds “disappeared” during firing. I’ve had excellent luck with diamonds in carbon. The 5-point diamond above has gone through the kiln, but was not fired in place. Other kiln safe gems are likely acceptable to use with Rose Gold Clay, but I haven’t done the extensive testing like those in the last issue (December 2010) of Metal Clay Artist Magazine. Stay tuned!

Do you have the slip form available? And how do you polish the Rose Gold Clay after firing?
You can thin the lump clay with distilled water to create a Rose Gold slip. I’m no pro with slip painting…but I’ll be taking a workshop in April! I can’t wait to paint with Rose Gold!
Out of the kiln, Rose Gold Clay has a flat, brownish-red tone, like the 22k yellow gold has a flat, brownish-yellow tone. It shines right up to a beautiful pink with tumbling or traditional polishing methods. The pieces photographed were polished with a rotary tool and Flitz polishing compound.

What package size of Rose Gold is available? How is the clay packaged?
The metal weight of the clay is 1.7g; this keeps the price at $100 and is enough to get several accent pieces. My first batch of 1.7g has created the two rings, three failed pieces a similar size, and I still have enough material left for another two pieces. Of course, if you absolutely fall in love with Rose Gold Clay, larger orders are always welcome with attractive discounts available!

How do I keep the Rose Gold Clay moist and how do I rejuvenate it?
I’ve found that plastic wrap works very well to keep metal clay moist. The first 5-years I worked with metal clay, I was in Albuquerque. It was very dry and I had great luck with a film canister and plastic wrap. This little lump looks sad in a film canister, so it is neatly packaged inside a little tub. This lends itself as a good container for mixing and moistening the clay with the spatula tool the kit comes with.

I’ve allowed the clay to dry fully and easily rejuvenated it with distilled water. To prevent loss of material (like the grinders might cause), I just add a few drops and let it sit for a few days. This clay does not blacken like the copper clay products. I have also over-hydrated it (slip consistency instead of clay), and had no problem leaving it exposed to let the water evaporate. It took time in humid PA, but there was still no oxidation of the clay!

Are there any instruction coming with the package?
The Rose Gold Clay comes with firing instructions and “Tips” sheet. It honestly isn’t any different that working with the other metal clays, so it should be easy to add to your work! I don’t want to disappoint anyone, so the kit comes with all the tools you need (minus the kiln) to get positive results. I’m happy to share my product with other metal clay artists, but originally developed it for my own use. Now that I know the formula that works beautifully, I’ll keep making it!

Happy Holidays to Sweetleaf Sisterz!

2010-12-17T13:43:00.005-05:00

Sweetleaf Sisterz won our December blog giveaway and will receive the very pretty and sweet "Peggy Necklace" handcrafted by Lisa of Willowandme!

Please stay tuned for our upcoming January team challenge "My Favorite Place" and our next blog giveaway in February. Happy Holidays to everyone from the MCHs!

Turning Nature Into a Lifetime Treasure

2010-12-03T00:14:00.015-05:00

Lisa of Willowandme - December Featured Artist and Blog Giveaway

Paralegal and jewelry artist could be two extremely different professions. One requires endless research and patience on the legal matters. The other demands infinite imagination. Both call for dedication and passion. How did Lisa transit from one to the other?

Why did you pick the name Willowandme?
When I first started making jewelry, it was beaded jewelry and only as a hobby. I had recently gotten a new kitten, Willow, and she spent all her time with me, no matter what I was doing, including when I was beading. So when I gave jewelry as gifts I would sign the card “from Willow and Lisa”. When I made the decision to begin selling my jewelry, the choice for a name seemed natural.

When did you first become interested in Metal Clay? How long have you been designing jewelry using Metal Clay?
I first heard of metal clay when I was beading and vociferously reading all kinds of magazines and books to learn new techniques. In 2006 I went to the Bead and Button show in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and took a beginner’s PMC class, among other classes, and I was hooked. Unfortunately, I must have missed the part about firing the clay without a kiln and went home a bit depressed because I couldn’t afford a kiln. I continued to read about it, however, and at some point I stumbled on an article about alternative firing techniques.

I asked for (and received) a Hot Pot for Christmas that year and quickly progressed to a Speedfire Cone and began making simple PMC pieces. As is usual with me, I purchased books and read online tutorials to learn techniques and began experimenting with things like resin and dimensional shapes. In 2009 I received my Rio Certification after taking a certification class with Tim McCreight.

What was your first piece of Metal Clay jewelry?
When I asked for the Hot Pot for Christmas, I also ordered a rubber stamp with my logo, a Siamese cat wearing a necklace. My first piece, other than those I made in my first class, was the first Willow necklace, which has proved to be a popular item. I now sell the pendants, giving a portion of the proceeds to the animal related charity of the buyer’s choice.

Would you tell us your creative process?
Much of my creative process begins in my head. I will get an idea for a piece or want to try a new technique and I will work it out a bit in my head for a while before trying it. Many times I am not sure what I will make until I start looking through my tools and textures. Other times the piece sort of “makes itself” as I am working with the clay and doesn’t come out at all as I originally envisioned.

I have only recently begun sketching my pieces out a bit as I begin making more complicated pieces, but I don’t always do this. I also try to record my ideas now because I have so many running around in my head, I sometimes forget them if I don’t sketch them out or make some notes.

What inspires you?
The easy answer is nature and natural things, but the truth is I get inspiration from many places. Lately, I am very interested in vessels, hidden objects and pieces with moving parts, so often when I see something mechanical, even totally unrelated to jewelry, I will examine it to see how I could translate that into a silver piece.

What are the major challenges when creating metal clay jewelry?
I believe my biggest challenge is the fact that I’m not a trained jeweler or metalsmith, nor have I had any artistic or design education. I came to jewelry making from a totally different background (I was a paralegal for many years). I think that may hold me back in a self-confidence way. In addition, it often means lots of research before starting a new technique. Even some very simple techniques like cutting metal or fabrication are (or were) foreign to me. I am an obsessive researcher, sometimes overly so, and tend to bombard myself with articles and books on techniques before trying something.

What do you enjoy most about working in Metal Clay?
Being able to transfer something impermanent like a flower or leaf into a piece of silver that will last many lifetimes. As far as the process itself, it still captivates and excites me, especially the moment when I take my pieces out of the kiln and what was originally a lump of grayish clay has magically become silver.

What is your greatest ambition as a Metal Clay artist?
I would like my business to be able to be financially independent. In addition, I would like to further my creativity process. Achievement of professional credentials has always been important to me and I have recently begun the journey through the Metal Clay Registry program. The process is daunting, especially considering those who have already attained levels in the program, but it is my hope to someday be able to say I have reached that goal.

As far as bragging goes, I think my favorite pieces have been my most challenging:

My pussywillow pieces. These pieces were the first time I really stepped outside the box to try something a bit different. Most pussywillow jewelry I saw used pearls, but I wanted the look to be more natural and soft and decided to have a friend make me some needle felted wool bits for the pussywillows.

My photo album pendant. There are a lot of firsts in this piece. It was my first hinge and the first post-firing stone I set (it was originally a different stone, but I later changed it to the cz because I didn’t like the original one). It was the first piece that required several steps firing then constructing fired pieces together. I like instant gratification with pieces so this took a lot of patience to finish. Many months went into the planning of this piece as I had wanted to tackle a hinge for a while.

Why did you design the giveaway piece? What is special about your giveaway piece?
My giveaway piece is entitled the “Peggy Necklace” and is named for a good friend of mine who is on the Etsy Maine Team with me. She and many others on the Maine Team were very supportive of my wanting to teach and there were several Maine Teamers in my first class. The pendant was made using a rubber stamp I carved for the first PMC class I taught. I think it’s important to teach students how to make their own textures. It makes the piece even more special when you make everything, including the texture.

In order to win Lisa's beautiful pendant, here are the rules:

Every person is eligible to enter the blog giveaway with up to FOUR (4) entries. How can you get an entry? You can do any of the following and then let us know that by leaving a comment under this feature so we can keep track.

1. Follow our blog = 1 entry
2. Check out featured artist and post favorite piece on the blog = 1 entry
3. Heart featured artist’s shop = 1 entry
4. Follow featured artist on Facebook = 1 entry
5. Make a purchase = 2 entries
6. Refer a friend = 1 entry
7. Tweet about the giveaway using key word metalclayheads = 1 entry
8. Share the Metal Clay Heads blog giveaway link on FB (Go to http://www.facebook.com/MetalClayHeadTeam and click Share) = 1 entry
9. If you voted and commented on our last challenge = 1 entry

The giveaway will run for two weeks. We will announce the winner on December 17th. Good luck!

Celebrating the Holidays with Fabulous Deals!

2010-11-23T00:55:00.068-05:00

Happy Holidays from the Metal Clay Heads! We would like to take this opportunity to celebrate the upcoming Holidays and to express gratitude to our wonderful customers with fabulous deals this coming Black Friday to Cyber Monday (November 25th to 29th). Participating members are offering free shipping and/or various discount on their handmade arts. Check them out today and don’t miss out! Please refer to the list at the end of this post for codes and details.

Here is a showcase of the feature item from participated members, enjoy!

Members	Use Code:	Details
AbellaBlue		Free shipping
adornedbyrobin	XMAS2010	20% off
ArtisanSilver		Free shipping
DaVoria	metalclay	Free shipping + 20% off
DestinysCreations	Gobblegobble	Free shipping + 10% off for all orders over $30
envydesignsjewelry	BLACKFRI10	Free shipping + 10% off
erinelizabeth	Thanks10	Free shipping + 10% off
FacciaFelice		Free shipping + up to 20% certain items
fishbonesilver		Free shipping
GSCreations	MCHBLK10	Free shipping within the U.S. + 10% off
heartsabustin		15% off
InMyOwnBackyard	holidayfrenzy	Free shipping within the U.S. + 10% off
jewelflyt	MCHBLK10	Free shipping + 10% off
LizardsJewelry	blackcyber	Free Priority insured mail + 10% off
lynncobb		Free shipping within the U.S.
mangosteenjewelry	PLAIDFRI	10% off
mybrownwren	wren10	Free shipping within the U.S. + 10% off
nineteenthirteen		Free shipping + 10% off anything in the store.
OxOriginalArtJewelry	THGVGWKND	15% off
Seavbeach	Gobblegobble	Free shipping + 10% off next purchase
SilverBlueberry	BLFRIDAYMCH	20% off entire store
SilverWishes	silver10	Free shipping + 10% off
somethingxtraspecial	SXSCyberwkend	10% off
sophistiquejewelry	TurkeyDay20	Free Shipping + 20% off entire store
SweetleafSisterz	Sweetleaf10	Free shipping + 10% off
Willowandme		Free shipping + 10% off

Lynn Cobb: Saul Bell Award Finalist

2010-11-17T09:09:00.002-05:00

We have many talented and award-winning members on our Metal Clay Heads Team and it's always so exciting to "talk" to those about whom I have read or whose work I have seen in books. I love to say I know these people! One of our newest members is Lynn Cobb, who recently announced that she is a finalist for the 2011 Saul Bell Design Award in the Metal Clay Division for this beautiful Fine Silver Flower.

Photo by George Post

Lynn has been working with PMC for about six years. Her background is in painting (mostly abstracts with acrylics) and polymer clay jewelry and she says the transition to PMC was a natural one for her. She has always loved abstract, sensual, flowing forms and continued using them in her PMC work.

The inspiration for her beautiful flowers is best left in Lynn's own words:

Of course as with most of us, I have made plenty of silver leaves by building up layers of paste on the back of actual leaves. They sometimes seem a bit trite perhaps, and yet I have been able to keep a steady flow of these flowing out of the booth at craft fairs. One day, I had a group of ginkgo leaves that I had not yet fired. When completely dry, the actual leaves pop right off the clay, so I began to play with arranging the leaves into a flower and realized that I could form them by using a small lump to hold them together, I began with two leaves and added as I went along, after each addition had completely dried. I added tiny balls of silver clay or slithery forms to draw the eye into the center of the flowers. (I add gold by painting gold paste on to the unfired silver, 2 layers before firing and another 2 layers, torch fired after the whole piece has been kiln fired.)

After I finished the first few flowers, I realized that I had created these sensual flowers that brought forth the beauty of Georgia O'Keeffe's spectacular flower paintings in three dimensional pieces of jewelry. I have been very strongly influenced by her flowers that just pulsate on the canvas. I also love the work of Judy Chicago, particularly The Dinner Party which, you may know, was an installation of dinner plates and place "mats" representing 99 women from his(her)story. These plates in some cases were painted flowers and others were far more representational, in three dimensions, of a woman's own flower, her vulva. Not in the least bit vulgar, Chicago's work was meant to show the power of women's art and craft and indeed, women's bodies. This work was done at a time when women artists were beginning to demand that the male dominated art community exhibit art done by women. And, to demand that women's art be accepted equally with art done by men and that women's art is as legitimate as men's, regardless of the subject matter, materials used and style.

All of this has been brewing within me, as an artist for the last 30 years. I feel that with metal clay, I have finally found the medium that allows me to express myself, in a way that feels very authentic and this flower series, I would like to think, is my own contribution to women's art. Our art, often relegated to the back of the gallery in the past, has begun to truly flower within the art community.

It is no surprise to me that a majority of metal clay artists are women. We have always been drawn to craft, art with function: needlecraft, pottery, jewelry. We have added beauty to everyday items throughout the millennia and we, as women, should be proud of our heritage and continue to create real art as we see fit, whether to adorn ourselves, our homes or gallery walls!

Lynn has made other beautiful flowers in this series as well:

Photo by George Post

Lynn is a Certified PMC Artisan, Level 2, and is currently working toward the Metal Clay Masters Registry professional development program. Her work has appeared in Metal Clay Beads by Barbara Becker Simon, Jewelry, the 'zine by Catherine Witherell, the 4th PMC Guild Annual and in Mixed Metal Jewelry Workshop, by Mary Hettmansperger.

Lynn lives in the San Francisco Bay area and teaches classes in PMC. Her work can be seen in her Etsy shop as well as at fine craft shows in the Bay area and at www.lynncobbsilver.com.

New Beginnings Challenge Winner

2010-11-16T14:55:00.012-05:00

Our winner is Jennifer of Envydesignsjewelry! Her Phoenix from the Ashes Pendant is totally amazing and well-deserved to win!

Twig and Buds Earrings by FacciaFelice came in second and the Growth Pendant by Sophistiquejewelry came in third.

We've a total of 108 votes, thank you for your participation. And the one who post a comment will be entered into our December blog giveaway featuring Willow and Me. Please stay tuned!

Congratulations...

2010-11-11T06:36:00.000-05:00

to Ali of Ali Bali Jewellery. She won the Ya Meana Patina contest by Metal Clay Today with her awesome coral rings: http://www.metalclaytoday.com/alison_reid.html

November Challenge - New Beginnings

2010-11-08T21:19:00.027-05:00

Every other month, we challenge our members to think outside of the box and create a unique metal clay piece. This month challenge is "New Beginnings" chosen by last challenge winner Ghislaine of GSCreations. The followings are artistic expression and interpretation of the theme by our members.

Please cast your vote on the right column; and if you post a comment, you will be automatically entered into our December blog giveaway.

New Beginnings Pendant by Mybrownwren

This cross represents new beginnings in my work and in my life. The embellishments are made with pmc paper - a process that I just recently attempted at my PMC certification class. [more]

Closeness Pendant by Somethingxtraspecial

A new beginning - innocence to maturity and the close bond that bind them.

New Beginnings Bracelet by SilverBlueberry

New beginnings was interpreted as supernovae, old stars that explode to generate new ones. The supernovae shown are painted after real examples. [more...]

Growth Pendant by Sophistiquejewelry

Meg says, "I feel the image of a tiny fern just beginning to unravel fits the theme of "New Beginnings" perfectly. It's also a nice reminder that Spring will come again, something to hold us through the winter ahead. :)"

Phoenix from the Ashes Pendant by Envydesignsjewelry

The phoenix rises from the ashes to be reborn again and again. A constant cycle of renewal. [more...]

New Beginnings Pendant by SilverSirenDesignS

It is a miniature copy of a statue I got for my husband the first year we met. We went to a lot of art fairs and rock & gems shows and these African couple statues were every where. That year was the beginning of a new life for me and when I wear it, I can remember to make each day a day for renewed love.

Twig and Buds Earrings by FaccaFelice

Buds are the symbol of new start, a new beginning. These twig and buds earrings represent hope. [more...]

Karen is our winner!

2010-10-25T14:28:00.004-04:00

Thanks everyone for entering our October blog giveaway!

Karen of Purplecat is our winner! She won the beautiful earrings from Jennifer of Envy Designs!

Our next blog giveaway will start early December, in the mean time check out Jennifer gorgeous jewelry here.

Envy Designs - Our October Featured Artist and Blog Giveaway

2010-10-11T00:15:00.019-04:00

From left to right: Scales of Justice - fine silver libra necklace; Clara - fine silver lotus, pearl necklace; and Amethyst necklace. All beautifully handmade by Jennifer.

Our featured artist of October is Jennifer of Envy Designs. Her one of a kind jewelry is designed and handcrafted using only the best gemstones, sterling or find silver, gold-filled or vermeil green metals. Her style is both elegant and glamorous. Following is a short interview with Jennifer.

When did you first become interested in Metal Clay? How long have you been designing jewelry using Metal Clay?
I had seen the beautiful things people were making in magazines, and then noticed that my local bead store was offering classes. I signed up and have never looked back! I have been incorporating metal clay in my gemstone and pearl jewelry for about 3 years now.

What was your first piece of Metal Clay jewelry?
It was a diamond shaped pendant set with orange CZ's and rubies, and I strung it on a strand of peach freshwater keishi pearls. I still wear it!

What do you enjoy most about working in Metal Clay?
It has so many possibilities! If you can think it up, you can do it!

Would you tell us your creative process?
I usually come up with ideas while I am falling asleep! If I can remember them when I wake up, I sketch the ideas out and refine them, and then go for it, all while rocking out to some heavy tunes!

What inspires you?
I am inspired by a great many things: Paintings, mythology, music, and movies. I tend to be moved by Victorian and Art Nouveau art and jewelry. I am also greatly inspired by my fabulously talented Metal Clay Heads!

Jennifer is giving away this pair of unique, organic and pretty Fine Silver Leaf earrings to a lucky winner this month! Made from ArtClay silver metal clay, these OOAK little leaf earrings are set with clear cubic zirconium and lab created rubies. These earrings are your must have for this Fall/Winter season!

So here are the rules:

Every person is eligible to enter the blog giveaway with up to FOUR (4) entries. How can you get an entry? You can do any of the following and then let us know that by leaving a comment under this feature so we can keep track.

1. Follow our blog = 1 entry
2. Check out featured artist and post favorite piece on the blog = 1 entry
3. Heart featured artist’s shop = 1 entry
4. Follow featured artist on Facebook = 1 entry
5. Make a purchase = 2 entries
6. Refer a friend = 1 entry
7. Tweet about the giveaway using key word metalclayheads = 1 entry
8. Share the Metal Clay Heads blog giveaway link on FB (Go to http://www.facebook.com/MetalClayHeadTeam and click Share) = 1 entry
9. If you voted and commented on our last challenge = 1 entry

The giveaway will run for two weeks. We will announce the winner on October 25th. Good luck!

Summer Romance Challenge Winner

2010-09-14T14:56:00.005-04:00

Congrats to Ghislaine of GSCreations who won our September Challenge with her Love is ... pendant! We had 142 polls. Thanks to all who voted!

The Runners-up:

Turtle Love pendant by Robin of Adornedbyrobin

Summer Romance Ring by Erin of Heartsabustin

Our October Blog Giveaway is coming soon, our featured artist is Jennifer of EnvyDesignsJewelry. Don't miss it!

Ah … Summer Romance…

2010-09-07T14:27:00.013-04:00

Welcome to MC Heads September challenge. This time our theme is “Summer Romance” chosen by last challenge winner Betty of Faccia Felice. Following are brief descriptions on each piece by the creative metal clay artist. Our poll is on the right column, please start voting! Don’t forget to post a comment to enter our October blog giveaway.

Summer Romance Ring by Erin of Heartsabustin

Summer is just about over, but it's romance will linger forever with this beautiful wide ring.

* Fine silver ring and roses

* Tiny cubic zirconia accents

Romantic Hearts by Anise of Seavbeach

Romantic Hearts necklace is created by painting onto a beautiful handpicked heart shaped leaf. Many layers go into painting metal clay onto each one. Oxidized to bring out each leafs veining. Reminiscent of a warm romantic summer coming to an end and the anticipation of a brisk autumn breeze.

Tree of Love necklace by Sue of Somethingxtraspecial

The tree where love grows! This highly detailed tree has a central heart focal, and on the branches many more fruits of love growing. It has a green sheen showing through.

Kauai- fine silver, pearl necklace by Jennifer of Envydesignsjewelry

This fine silver necklace was made for the Metal Clay Heads team bi-monthly challenge.
The theme is summer romance. What is more romantic than Kauai, Hawaii?

Love Grows pendant by Vicki of Jewelflyt

...from the smallest seed...grows love...

This handcrafted pendant is made from precious metal clay - fine silver.

Rectangular in shape, love grows features a garden of raised spirals. The largest is set with a sparkly pale pink 4mm cubic zirconia (lab created).

Turtle Love pendant by Robin of Adornedbyrobin

My Turtle Love pendant was inspired by two things, a love of nature and the gulf oil crisis. Sea turtles in particular amaze me because they are so helpless on land and seem to soar in the water. I used my torch to create a heat patina for the first time, which was more difficult than I expected.

Love is ... - Fine silver pendant with Love is... inscription by Ghislaine of GS Creations

These two intertwind hearts are made with 99.9% pure silver. They are stamped with the words "Love is...". These letters have been oxidized to bring them out and the center of the piece has been filled with transluscent red glass paint.

Fine Silver Spinner Ring by Tammi of Mybrownwren

This is my summer romance challenge piece. It is a fine silver spinner ring. There is a heart sitting atop a summer flower.

The Winner of Our Blog Giveaway Is ...

2010-08-25T13:41:00.007-04:00

Pomegranate&eye

Congrats to Pomegranate&eye who will receive the beautiful Distressed Petite Bouquet from Terri of Nineteenthirteen.
Thank you for everyone who has entered and supported our first blog giveaway. Our next blog giveaway is scheduled in October. Don't forget to vote for our September team challenge, your comment will be automatically entered to win the October blog giveaway.

Ring Tutorial from Silver Blueberry

2010-08-16T20:05:00.000-04:00

If you are interested in making PMC rings as I am, check out this blog post by our very own Esmerelda of Silver Blueberry. It's a very informative step-by-step tutorial with great pictures!

First Blog Giveaway -- Eco-friendly Jewelry from Nineteenthirteen

2010-08-10T10:50:00.004-04:00

Welcome to our first ever MCH Team blog giveaway! Terri of Nineteenthirteen from Elkhorn, WI is our featured artist this time.

Terri's jewelry is eco-friendly, inspiring with a touch of vintage feel. Her Fine S ilver Hydrangea is my fave.
The pendant has a texture of rain! And I can feel the movement of the hydrangea under the rain. Terri will be giving away a pendant from her Vintage Button Collection -- Distressed Petite Bouquet.

Following is a short interview with Terri, enjoy!

Why did you pick the name Nineteen Thirteen?
That is the year that my grandmother Rose was born. We always called her "Busia," which is grandmother in Polish. I spent a lot of time with her growing up and she is quite a bit why I am the way that I am. She was a hardworking farm wife and I learned an appreciation for gardening, sewing, baking, cooking, and general thriftiness from her. She was sustainable and eco-friendly before they were cool!

When did you first become interested in Metal Clay? How long have you been designing jewelry using Metal Clay?
I became interested in Metal Clay about two years ago, bought a packet of PMC3, and have been hooked ever since!

What inspires you?
Friends, family, animals, nature, food...
Most of my pieces have a story behind them. I love designing custom pieces that evoke a memory for a client. Creating customized gifts for clients makes me smile.

Why did you design the giveaway piece? What is special about your giveaway piece?
I searched a few flea markets for vintage buttons to make into jewelry. The button was used as a mold to recreate the button in silver. I love the vintage soul the pendant has.

What do you enjoy most about working in Metal Clay?
The forgiveness of the clay! If I am not happy with the piece I can just roll the clay out and try again!

Terri loves to work on custom pieces and would create meaningful piece perfect just for you. You can find more of her inspiring jewelry on Etsy:
http://www.etsy.com/shop/nineteenthirteen.

You can also become her fan on Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/NineteenThirteen.

Don't forget to post a comment to enter our giveaway! Each person can enter four times to up your chance of winning. Read more on the giveaway here. Please put each entry in SEPARATE posts.

August Giveaway

2010-08-09T20:42:00.001-04:00

We are excited to announce our first giveaway. We will be featuring a giveaway from one of our metal clay artists every other month, alternating with our challenges. This giveaway will feature a piece by Terri of Nineteen Thirteen. The winner will be chosen at random from all the entries received. Very soon, Betty from Faccia Felice will publish a short feature on Terri and will have a photo of the prize (which is very nice!)

So here are the rules:

Every person is eligible to enter the blog giveaway with up to FOUR (4) entries. How can you get an entry? You can do any of the following and then let us know that by leaving a comment here so we can keep track.

Follow our blog = 1 entry
Check out featured artist and post favorite piece on the blog = 1 entry
Heart featured artist’s shop = 1 entry
Follow featured artist on Facebook = 1 entry
Make a purchase = 2 entries
Refer a friend = 1 entry
Tweet about the giveaway using key word metalclayheads = 1 entry
Share the Metal Clay Heads blog giveaway link on FB (Go to http://www.facebook.com/MetalClayHeadTeam and click Share) = 1 entry
If you voted and commented on our last challenge = 1 entry

The giveaway will run for two weeks. We will announce the winner on August 24th. Good luck!

Thanks to Betty from FacciaFelice for organizing the giveaway!

Meet our Members: Willow and Me Jewelry

2010-07-28T16:26:00.001-04:00

My name is Lisa and I am the "me" half of Willow and Me Jewelry. The other is Willow, my siamese cat and constant companion. I live in Ellsworth, Maine, (near Bar Harbor/Acadia National Park) and I've been working with metal clay since 2006. I received my Rio Rewards PMC Certification in March of 2009, and I love to experiment with new designs and techniques. I have also begun teaching beginner's classes and have discovered a new love in that.

Most of my designs are inspired by nature. I'm lucky to live in a beautiful area, surrounded by nature, and close to the sea. When walking, I am constantly on the lookout for inspiration in the form of flowers, leaves, etc.

Note to our members, if you would like your mini-bio on the blog but haven't submitted it yet, convo it to Lisa at willowandme. Thanks!

Challenge Winner!

2010-07-23T11:10:00.001-04:00

Thank you to all who voted in our most recent challenge: Patriotism. We had 160 votes! The winner is:

I Heart My Country by Betty of Faccia Felice.

The top three vote getters were:

The Runners-Up:

North America by Ghislaine of GS Creations

Scales of Justice by Jennifer of Envy Designs Jewelry

Congratulations to all! We will have another challenge in September. In the mean time, look for our giveaway coming soon.

Challenge: Patriotism

2010-07-12T21:59:00.004-04:00

The Metal Clay Heads team has a challenge every other month, to foster creativity and to encourage us to try new things. Each challenge is chosen by the winner of the previous challenge. Janie from LifeArtDesigns was our winner last time and she has chosen "Patriotism" as our theme this time. Below are the entries. Please vote on the voter to the right. Voting will be open until July 22 at midnight, EST. The winner will be announced the next day. Also, commenting on this blog will give you an entry in our first ever giveaway next month!

The entries are:

Scales of Justice by Jennifer of Envy Designs Jewelry

The scales of justice usually held by the goddess Themis, or Lady justice. I have to thank my husband for this idea.

North America by Ghislaine of GS Creations:

My July challenge piece. Since I am Canadian and I live in the U.S. and my son is both Canadian and American I decided to honor both countries. I created this fine silver pendant with the maple leaf representing Canada and the Stars for the U.S.

Memory of Holland by Esmerelda of SilverBlueberry

It has part of a Dutch poem that for me is Holland more than anything else. I added red, white and blue (rubies, quartz and sapphires in the front, freshwater pearls in the back) for our flag color. The translation of these first sentences is:

Thinking of Holland
I see wide-flowing rivers
slowly traversing
infinite plains,

It's written by H. Marsman

Remember September 11 by Tammi of My Brown Wren

This is my third try at the Etsy Metal Clay Heads July Challenge on Patriotism. It is an artistic rendition of the Twin Towers.

I Heart my Country by Betty of FacciaFelice

This is the piece I designed for the Metal Clay Heads Team Bi-Monthly challenge Patriotism.
I used the signature red, white and blue colors on a fine silver heart to express my love to my country.

The star is the state where I'm living in now - California.

Patriotism and Hope by Anise of SeavBeach Designs

This one of a kind piece was created for my MetalClayheads Team Challenge. The theme being patriotism. Having grown up in a military family, there was no question as to what patriotism meant to me.

American Flag Earrings by Erin of Heartsabustin

Lady Liberty by Patsy of OxOriginalArtJewelry

Polish Coin Necklace by Terri of Nineteen Thirteen

One clear cubic zirconia and one red lab corundum garnet have been added to the bail to represent the Polish flag. The words "SUPA DUPA" have been added to the back...this can either represent "Super Duper" or "Nice Butt" which is my very loose interpretation of a Polish saying my grandmother used to repeat!

America the Beautiful by Lisa of Willow and Me Jewelry

This pin was made for my Metal Clay Heads team challenge. The challenge was to make something patriotic. The first thing I thought of wasn't the flag or the national anthem, but the song all Americans learn in grade school: "America the Beautiful".

Please vote on the gadget to the right and comment below if you would like an entry into our first ever giveaway next month!

A note about the photos. Some of the pieces are listed in the artist's shop, while others are not. Where they are, they were linked to the shop and can be found by clicking on the photo. The others were taken from their uploads to the Metal Clay Heads group on Flickr. They, along with alternate views of the items, can be seen here.

Meet our Members: Nineteen Thirteen

2010-07-09T13:10:00.000-04:00

Nineteen Thirteen:

Hello! My name is Terri and I have been a metal clay addict for two years. :) By day (and often by night) I am an equine veterinarian. I live in Wisconsin with my husband, dog Vinnie, and cat Annie. My shop is named after the year my grandma Rosie was born. Creating metal clay jewelry has allowed me to combine my love for art and animals. Custom pieces that evoke the love of people and animals are my favorite projects.

Note to our members, if you would like your mini-bio on the blog but haven't submitted it yet, convo it to Lisa at willowandme. Thanks!

Meet our Members: Sweetleaf Sisterz

2010-07-08T07:15:00.000-04:00

Sweetleaf Sisterz:

Thanks for the welcome! A little bit about myself...I live in Ohio with my husband, 3 dogs and a horse. I share an etsy shop with my sister Denise, who lives in PA. We both love working with metal clay and exploring new ways to create with it. I am excited to join this team and share ideas and creative thoughts.

Note to our members, if you would like your mini-bio on the blog but haven't submitted it yet, convo it to Lisa at willowandme. Thanks!

Meet our members: JKistler Studios

2010-07-05T16:35:00.000-04:00

JKistler Studios:

I started making jewelry because I finally couldn't resist all the neat stone beads. First made Christmas gifts, which were well-received (and more requested every year!). And some for me of course (I wear jewelry more now that I make what I want). Then decided I wanted to make jewelry that was uniquely *mine*, and had ideas about making horse designs, and took an Art Clay Silver class at the local bead shop. I love it! I have always been into art (and crafts) and horses.

Note to our members, if you would like your mini-bio on the blog but haven't submitted it yet, convo it to Lisa at willowandme. Thanks!

Ali Bali Jewellery's Cuff to Appear in Metal Clay Artist Magazine.

2010-07-05T12:50:00.000-04:00

This absolutely gorgeous cuff by AliBali Jewellery will appear in the upcoming Metal Clay Artist Magazine. Congratulations!

Meet our Members: Silver Blueberry

2010-06-28T16:25:00.000-04:00

Silver Blueberry:

My name is Esmeralda, I am Dutch living in Sweden with my Swedish boyfriend and two cats. My science career brought me to Sweden, where I obviously got stuck. We live in a small house in a rural suburb just outside Stockholm and our garden is frequently visited by deer, foxes, hares, and moose. Nature is so important here in Sweden and it's my biggest inspiration. I am also a vegetarian and I have a deep concern for the environment.

I am still a full time scientist but I discovered metal clay just over a year ago and was hooked right away. Since then I have also discovered the joys of metalsmithing and try now to combine the two techniques to the best of my abilities. My dream is to make jewelry fulltime, keep goats and chickens and live a quiet life.

Note to our members, if you would like your mini-bio on the blog but haven't submitted it yet, convo it to Lisa at willowandme. Thanks!

Meet our Members: Artisan Silver

2010-06-25T09:31:00.000-04:00

Artisan Silver:

My name is Traceyann and I live on the beautiful Isle of Wight in England. I have a lovely husband called Lee and we have been together since I was 15 and he was 17. I've had lots of jobs including decorative artist, portrait painter, healer/complementary therapist, lecturer and medical secretary. Over a year ago I took up jewellery making as rehab for a hand injury (I dropped a stone slab on it whilst trying to save 12 teeny weeny ducklings stuck down a hole! The ducklings went on to live happy content lives). In the past year I've gone from beading to silversmithing and finally to PMC. I am a total PMC addict!

Who's afraid of the BIG, BAD Torch?

2010-06-25T08:36:00.007-04:00

Good morning, Metal Clay Heads!

We're going to talk about something today that scares the crud out of even the most seasoned of Metal Clay Heads. THE TORCH. There are a lot of professional metal clayers who will tell you the torch doesn't work. It doesn't sinter the clay properly. It's just ..... not ...... good enough. You "must" have a kiln to be a "real" metal clayer.

In my humble opinion, hogwash.

As long as you're not trying to fire a foot-tall scale model of the Eiffel Tower, you'll be just fine. (If you're THAT good, WHY are you reading MY article, anyway??) ;P As long as the pieces you are firing are under 25 grams of clay and less than 1.5" (3.8 cm) around (for the Americans, that's about the size of a half dollar), your pieces should sinter just fine.

Let's talk torch for a minute - it's lightweight, it's small, it's inexpensive, and you can store it anywhere. Just make sure little fingers can't get to it - little ones have an uncanny ability to make "childproof" items work just fine. You can buy the butane fuel canisters for your torch easily - Wal-Mart and Lowe's carry them. I tried my local hardware store, but they didn't carry the ones I need, but yours might. Give them a try, as well. One thing I did find out this winter - if you fuel your torch outside (I do, for safety reasons), you need to wait about 30 minutes before firing for the fuel to come up to room temperature. My dear husband had to point that one out for me. *blushes* Filling the torch is fairly easy, although all canister nozzles are not made the same. They may or not fit perfectly into the fill nozzle on your torch. If you're careful, this won't be much of a problem. You fit the nozzles together and push down on the can. When the fuel sputters, your torch is full. Let the torch rest for five minutes after fueling. *NOTE* The can will get quite cold during fueling.

Most (or all) torches will have a child safety lock - when you're ready to fire, push this down. Press the button above the safety to get your flame. Off to the left is a continuous flame button - press this button in (and LET GO!) so your hands will be relaxed during firing. When you start firing your (completely dry!) piece, it will smoke. It will smoke and THEN it will catch on fire. Yes, that's normal, and no, you don't need to panic. Those are the binders in the clay burning off. Don't drop your torch and scream. After it's done burning, you're beginning to sinter the piece. Sintering is defined as heating to a coherent mass without melting. Remember that - you're NOT melting your piece. That's bad. During the firing process, you will maintain a peach or salmon color in the piece. If it starts to bubble or turn silver, you are wayyyyyy too close - back off a little. The flame has two "cones" - one is hard to see unless you're in a dark room, and the other is blue. Don't use the blue part of the flame - it's the hottest and it will melt your silver.

Here's a firing schedule for torch firing silver clay:

5 grams or less - 1 - 1.5 minutes

6 - 15 grams - 1.5 - 2.5 minutes

16 - 25 grams - 2.5 to 5 minutes

Large pieces need a little more time under the torch, but I will tell you, so far, I've NEVER had a torched piece break because of improper sintering. Matter of fact, Patricia Kimle - my personal metal clay hero - torch fires ALL of her pieces.

Now, I'm not putting down kilners. If I had $700 and a place to put one, I'd get one! I want to try some of the other clays - BRONZclay and COPPRclay have to be kiln fired. However, I'm still playing with the limits I can push with the torch. Plus, it's just more practical right now. I have kids, limited space, and not enough production to require a kiln.

I guess my point is this - don't let not having a kiln stop you. There are some amazing things you can do with a torch and a little bit of precious metal clay.

Happy claying, Metal Clay Heads!!

Meet our Members: Heartsabustin

2010-06-22T19:13:00.000-04:00

Heartsabustin:

Okay, my name is Erin. I'm in Wilmington, NC, near Seavbeach, and I am married with two boys and two dogs. I just started working with ArtClay Silver this past January, and I LOVE it. Totally addicted. I torch fire, and I've done almost every stupid thing imaginable, so if you need help, lemme know. LOL I'm not anything cool - I have no certifications or anything like that. I'm just a SAHM that LOVES to create and Etsy is my way of making money to support my various hobbies.

If you see a crazy lady named 1mADwoman come on here with a purse for an avatar, that's me, too. I pop in and out both ways, so you can call me mad or hearts or Erin - I really don't care. ROFLOL

Note to our members, if you would like your mini-bio on the blog but haven't submitted it yet, convo it to Lisa at willowandme. Thanks!

Metal Clay Heads Treasury

2010-06-21T09:13:00.001-04:00

Thanks to Artisan Silver for making this awesome treasury.

Meet our Members: Andyjusty

2010-06-18T10:25:00.001-04:00

Andyjusty:

I live in Melbourne, Australia. I am married with 2 children and 3 Burmese cats. I used to be an obstetrician but the hours were lousy, so now I teach in medical school, so that helps fund my metal clay addiction :)

Note to our members, if you would like your mini-bio on the blog but haven't submitted it yet, convo it to Lisa at willowandme. Thanks!

Meet our Members: PomegranateAndEye

2010-06-17T09:18:00.000-04:00

PomegranateAndEye:

My name is Anush. I live in Sunland, CA. Life's busy. My daughter just got engaged so there's a party in the works. I have a day job (groan!!) marketing commercial property insurance...seriously. How I got there, I still ask myself everyday. But there's a mortgage to be paid. Anyways, I've been working with metal clay for about 3 years now. Mostly I make silver pomegranates. My site has pomegranates and eye bead jewelry. I've been on Etsy since 11/07.

Note to our members, if you would like your mini-bio on the blog but haven't submitted it yet, convo it to Lisa at willowandme. Thanks!

Meet our Members: SimplySu

2010-06-16T13:41:00.000-04:00

SimplySu:

My name's Sue. I live in Pembrokeshire, West Wales. Beautiful part of Great Britain. Have two daugthers, one lives with me and the other in supported living back in Kent where we used to live. My elder daughter lives with me, our two dogs and two cats. I've always felt I was creative but lacked confidence in my abilities. Am very new to making jewellery, but love coming up with ideas and seeing whether they work or not. Have recently discovered PMC and am loving using it. Don't want to make too many mistakes so am practising with sculpy clay. Joined Etsy back in February.

Meet our Members: SeavBeach

2010-06-15T18:35:00.001-04:00

Seavbeach:

My name is Anise and I live in a small coastal town in North Carolina. My parents were Artists in different ways, mom a painter, dad a musician, stepfather a carpenter. I've been making jewelry since I was 8. When I was 21 it helped me fund a trip to Great Britain and I spent 4 glorious months travelling. This is currently my only job, but I'm looking for a daytime job so I can splurge on more clay! I have 4 dogs and a cat (the cat is more like a dog) Oh, I am very new to Metal Clay... I absolutely LOVE it!!

Note to our members, if you would like your mini-bio on the blog but haven't submitted it yet, convo it to Lisa at willowandme. Thanks!

What is Metal Clay?

2010-06-15T00:16:00.000-04:00

“Metal Clay” is a broad term used to describe various forms of a very exciting artistic medium. Metal clays currently available on the market include silver, gold, copper, steel, and bronze and are available from several different companies. Microscopic metal particles are suspended in a small amount of water and some variety of organic binder. Fresh from the package, the metal clay is soft and malleable and can be molded, formed, and shaped with nearly any tool you have available. Once the pieces are dry and hard they enter the “greenware” state. Filing, sawing, and gluing greenware pieces is one more way the project can achieve dimension and detail. When exposed to high heat, the water and binder are burned away and the metal particles fuse together, creating a solid metal object. The piece can then be finished with traditional metalsmithing techniques to bring out its true beauty.

The inherent flexibility of the product has made it a favorite for both traditional projects and those that incorporate metal clay into multi-medial works of art. No matter what your creative vision, metal clay is sure to add a new dimension to your work. Before long you’ll be a full-fledged Metal Clay Head…and now you have a home with us!

Meet our Members: FishBoneSilver

2010-06-14T10:49:00.000-04:00

Fishbone Silver:

I'm new to the team :) I have a wonderful husband, a grown daughter, 2 Golden Retrievers, 4 horses and 2 donkeys. I discovered PMC a year and a half ago, I have never made jewelry before that, except some beading with a loom back in high school. I live on the east coast of central Florida and also have property in north Florida. I have a daytime job that is 4 days a week and I'm now trying to cut down to 3 so I can make more stuff. I hope to one day achieve the level that some of you are at, this is a really talented bunch!

Barb

Note to our members, if you would like your mini-bio on the blog but haven't submitted it yet, convo it to Lisa at willowandme. Thanks!

Meet our Members: Envy Designs

2010-06-12T08:04:00.000-04:00

Envy Designs Jewelry:

I am Jennifer, I live in Troutdale, Oregon, about 30 min. from Portland. I am married with 1 dog: Phoenix, and 1 cat: the fabulous Stella, both rescues. I have made jewelry since high school, had my first class with ArtClay about 3 years ago, just finished my senior certification last month. I work mostly with gemstones and wire, but metal clay is kind of taking over. I am also an esthetician by day. I am huge into animal rights and the environment.

Note to our members, if you would like your mini-bio on the blog but haven't submitted it yet, convo it to Lisa at willowandme. Thanks!

Meet our Members: Roberta Wa

2010-06-11T18:18:00.001-04:00

Welcome to the first in a series of little mini-bios of our members. They will appear in the order that they are received. Hope you enjoy getting to know all of us!

RobertaWa:

My background is in fine art and graphic design.

Since I began working in metal a few years ago it has become my favorite medium to work in. I love the feel and the structure of the metal. I love watching it change with heat, saw or hammer.

Lately I have been working almost exclusively in Metal Clay and am absolutely smitten with it. It has enhanced my creativity in ways that working in sheet never did. I was always trying to figure out how to solder everything together. With the clay I don’t have to worry about that and I can just enjoy the process of “design”.

In my day job, I design Social Studies textbooks for Pearson Education.

Note to our members, if you would like your mini-bio on the blog but haven't submitted it yet, convo it to Lisa at willowandme. Thanks!

Meet our Members: GS Creations

2010-06-11T17:31:00.007-04:00

GS Creations:

My name is Ghislaine (pronounced Gui, like guitar, len). Iit's French and causes me a lot of issues down here in Virginia. I was born in Lebanon and lived in Montreal, Canada, for 21 years before moving to Virginia three years ago. I moved because of a man, a wonderful man, that I married two years ago on July 19. We have an 8 month old son who is the light of my life and a pug named Rowdy. He certainly lives up to his name. I started beading 10 years ago as a hobby and now I have a room full of beads. I only recently started working with metal clay, in April, and I'm totally hooked. I joined etsy in March '08. I have a day job as a Systems Librarian. That means I take care of all things IT at a Federal Library in DC.

Note to our members, if you would like your mini-bio on the blog but haven't submitted it yet, convo it to Lisa at willowandme. Thanks!

We Have a Winner!

2010-06-07T18:14:00.001-04:00

The results of the voting for our challenge piece are in! We had a whopping 126 votes and the winner was The Tooth by Life Art Designs. Janie will be issuing our next challenge and her piece will appear in our banner until then. Congratulations to Janie and good work to all who entered the challenge!

Congratulations to Tiffany of Twin Mermaids Studio!

2010-06-05T20:07:00.000-04:00

Tiffany has won the Silver Medal in the Fire Mountain Gems and Beads' 2010 Jewelry-Making Contest - Metal Clay, Metal Beads, Wirework and Chain Category for her Firepod Earrings. Click here for Fire Mountain's Profile of Tiffany. We are all very happy for Tiffany and proud to have her as part of our team!

It's Official!

2010-06-02T06:54:00.001-04:00

We are now officially an Etsy Street Team. Here is a link to our page: Metal Clay Heads Team Page

Yay!

We need your vote!

2010-06-01T17:11:00.003-04:00

Every month or so we MetalClayHeads have a challenge This one was issued by Liz of Lizards Jewelry: To create a piece in which we incorporated a found object. The entries are:

Can You Hear Me Grow by SeavBeach:

Dogwood Blossom Necklace by HeartsaBustin:

Glass of Sorrow by SilverBlueberry:

Rustic Tie Tack by WillowandMe:

The Tooth by LifeArtDesigns:

Vintage Button Pendant by AbellaBlue:

Please vote to the right. Voting will be open until June 6th at midnight, EST. The winner gets bragging rights and the chance to issue the next challenge. Oh, and I forgot. A picture of their piece(s) on our banner for the month.

Thanks!

Welcome!

2010-05-24T19:50:00.001-04:00

Welcome to the Metal Clay Heads blog. We are a group of artists and lovers of metal clay. Please join us in the future for tutorials, artist profiles and other fun things!

Giveaway Rules

2001-01-01T09:39:00.001-05:00

Every other month we will do a giveaway - on the months when we are not doing a team challenge. The giveaway rules are as follows:

Every person is eligible to enter the blog giveaway with up to FOUR (4) entries. How can you get an entry? You can do any of the following and then let us know that by leaving a comment here so we can keep track.

Follow our blog = 1 entry
Check out featured artist and post favorite piece on the blog = 1 entry
Heart featured artist’s shop = 1 entry
Follow featured artist on Facebook = 1 entry
Make a purchase = 2 entries
Refer a friend = 1 entry
Tweet about the giveaway using key word metalclayheads = 1 entry
Share the Metal Clay Heads blog giveaway link on FB (Go to http://www.facebook.com/MetalClayHeadTeam and click Share) = 1 entry
If you voted and commented on our last challenge = 1 entry