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The syringe clay is ideal for creating hollow forms, lines and decorative details. It is also highly suitable for attaching findings or carrying out repairs. Syringe clay is often used to create hollow forms using cork clay as a base. It is also ideal for quickly setting stones. Apply a small ball of clay about the size of the stone onto your piece, press the zirconia directly into the clay and push firmly so the edges become secured in the clay. In addition, the syringe clay can be used for repairing damage such as deeper cracks.

Use with Cork Clay:

Please note: when using syringe clay with cork clay, make sure the cork clay is completely dry, as moisture expands when heated. The cork clay burns away during firing, leaving the hollow silver structure behind.

Forming Phase

The clay can be shaped using tools and materials suitable for various types of clay. Other tools may also be used, but make sure they are free from rust, as rust can stain the silver. The silver clay can be used directly from the package. If the clay sticks to your hands, you can apply a small amount of olive oil to your hands, work surface and tools. If the clay becomes slightly dry, add a small amount of distilled water using a damp finger and knead it into the clay, for example using plastic wrap. Prevent leftover clay from drying out while working.

Drying Phase

The clay has a light grey color. Drying time depends on the method used:

• Air drying: 24 hours for 10g clay at 1mm thickness
• With a hairdryer: approximately 20 minutes
• In a household oven: 10 minutes at 100°C

Check dryness with a mirror test: place the warm piece on a mirror. If condensation appears on the mirror, the clay is not fully dry yet.

After drying, the clay has the hardness of plaster. Parts can be attached or repaired by making paste from leftover clay. The dry clay can be engraved or refined using a sharp tool. Keep in mind a shrinkage of approximately 9–10%, especially with rings, which shrink around 4 to 5 Japanese sizes (other sizes can be found in the ring size chart). Sanding and filing is easier during the dry phase because the silver becomes harder after firing.

Firing Phase

Art Clay Silver Regular can be fired uncovered in a special kiln. Place the clay directly onto a fiber board or firing mesh in a preheated kiln. For additional support, fiber blanket, fiber paper or firing granules can be used to support delicate jewelry pieces. Small zirconias (up to 6mm) can be placed directly into a hot kiln. If unsure, it is recommended to place the piece into a cold kiln and allow it to cool down slowly to room temperature afterwards. See our instruction videos for more information. When using glass, ceramics, pottery or porcelain, a cold kiln and adjusted firing schedule should be used. Gold foil or gold paste can also be used to add 22K gold accents.

Regular silver clay has a shrinkage of approximately 9–10% during firing. The clay can be fired starting from 650°C, which means it can also be fired with a gas torch or on a gas stove. The ideal firing temperature is between 800°C and 900°C.

Finishing Phase

After firing, the clay has a white appearance, which is caused by the crystalline structure of fine silver. Use a polishing brush to create a beautiful matte silver finish. For further finishing, polishing sponges and an agate burnisher or polishing needle can be used. Radial discs with a Dremel are also very suitable for finishing. With polishing paste, the silver can be polished to a high shine. Art Clay Silver Regular has a beautiful bright silver color.