Q: What can I use the PMC3 Paste for?
A: The paste can be used to fill cracks, bond dry pieces together before firing, mend imperfections
in a piece after firing (the piece will then need to be dried and re-fired), create interesting textures and for
capturing detailed organic textures by building up layers.
Q: What can I use the PMC3 Syringe for?
A: The syringe will extrude a thin wire of soft PMC, the diameter of which can be altered by cutting
the nozzle of the syringe. It is ideal for creating surface decoration, forming thing wires (much finer and
more consistent than can be achieved with the clay form), repairing PMC pieces and making a bezel to
hold a stone.
Q: I dropped my PMC design before firing it - can it be mended?
A: You can ‘glue’ the pieces back together using the PMC paste, you can also use this to fill cracks,
or just add to your design at this dry stage. Then wait for the slip or any new PMC you have added to it to
dry and then fire as normal.
Q: I’ve fired my PMC design and noticed that a crack in it, can I fix this?
A: Use the PMC paste to fill the crack, and smooth it off. Then wait for this to dry and fire again.
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Q: Can I solder a Sterling Silver finding onto my PMC design?
A: Yes, you can. You may want to make a wire bail for a pendant, attach a post for an earring or
attach a brooch back, these can be soldered as you would normally with Sterling Silver. Be aware however
that as PMC is more porous than Sterling Silver that you may need to use more solder than you are used
to with Sterling Silver.
Q: What is the difference between Original PMC, PMC+ and PMC3?
A: The difference in the types of PMC are due to the particle sizes in the clay. The original PMC is
made up of larger particles and so shrinks more than the other types, by about 30%. This has to be fired
in a kiln and cannot be torch fired. The newer generation of clays (PMC+ and PMC3) are made of smaller
particles and shrink by much less, approximately 12%, these can be fired at lower temperatures and both
in a kiln or with a hand held torch. PMC3 is the newest form of Precious Metal Clay and fires to a much
stronger and denser material. As it is stronger it can be used to make things like rings, clasps or bracelets
that take more wear. It also has the possibility of having gemstones fired in it, which the other types of clay
are not capable of. This is the version of PMC that we have decided to stock as we feel it is stronger and
much more versatile.
Q: I’m stuck for ideas on what to make out of my PMC, do you have any suggestions?
A: Look out for projects using Precious Metal Clay in the Jewellery Tips & Ideas section of the
website. We also stock an inspiring and informative book on using PMC which will give you a great start
with lots of projects to follow and inspire you to create your own designs.
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