Tools and Essentials


—Firing All PMC needs to be fired in order to sinter the metal particles and this can be done in one of two ways; either with a hand torch or a kiln. Some clay (e.g. Sterling Silver) requires a two stage firing process which needs a kiln and also a carbon filled container to successfully sinter the material. This is largely down to the extra elements which go into creating an alloy as opposed to a pure metal. For those new to PMC, we would suggest starting with one of the more straight forward, low firing temperature clays such as PMC3, which can be sintered using a torch. (Please see chart below for firing methods and timings).


Hand Torch


A simple portable hand torch can be used to fire most small scale (but not all) PMC successfully. They are now stocked quite widely in DIY, craft and cookery stores as well as specialist suppliers and run on Butane gas which is otherwise known as lighter fuel. They are not expensive and are by far the best option for anyone just starting to work with PMC. As a general guide, pieces to be torch fired need to be smaller than 50p piece and weigh less than 9g.


Lori Ridgway 13


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