What is Metal Clay?

Prometheus Hobby · Metal Clay Guide

The Soft Side of Metal

Metal clay lets you shape silver, bronze, and copper in your hands — redefining the boundaries of art and jewelry making.

Works like clay, lives like metal.

Metal clay is a revolutionary material composed of fine metal particles, water, and an organic binder. In its raw state it can be shaped just like pottery clay — but once fired in a kiln or with a torch, the binder burns away, leaving behind pure, solid metal.

For every artist who wants to go beyond the limits of traditional jewelry making, metal clay means freedom. Complex textures, fine details, organic forms — all possible with simple tools, right at your home studio table.

Prometheus Metal Clays

Three precious metals, endless possibilities

Silver Clay

Prometheus Silver

Contains 99.9% pure silver. Ideal for delicate jewelry, fine details and high shine. Beginner-friendly with low firing temperatures.

Bronze Clay

Prometheus Bronze

Perfect for antique looks and warm tones. Ideal for larger structures and sculptural work. Economical choice, professional results.

Copper Clay

Prometheus Copper

Unique aesthetics with warm reddish tones. High durability and wide artistic expression. Incredible depth with patina effects.

From Clay to Jewelry

Four steps in metal clay art

Shape It

Shape the metal clay by hand, with a roller, or by pressing onto textures.

Dry It

Air-dry naturally or gently heat. Refine details with sandpaper once dry.

Fire It

Sinter with the Prometheus kiln using precise temperature control.

Finish It

Polish, add patina, and complete your piece.

Prometheus Kiln: Your Creative Partner

Equipment · The Heartbeat

Proper sintering of metal clay directly determines the quality of the finished piece. Prometheus kilns feature precise digital control, rapid heating, and a compact design suited for home studios and professional workshops alike.

Firing profiles are optimized for silver clay (~650–900°C) and atmosphere-protected firing for bronze and copper clays. Pre-programmed settings for every metal type included.

Max Temperature	1050°C	Control	Digital PID
Usage	Home / Studio	Compatibility	All Metal Clays

“Metal clay didn’t reinvent jewelry — it simply opened it up to everyone.”

Professional Tips

What you need to know for better results

01	Preserve Moisture Wrap the clay in plastic wrap or a sealed container when not working. A few drops of water kneaded back in will rescue clay that has started to dry out.

02	Account for Shrinkage Silver clay shrinks approximately 10–15% during firing. We recommend starting your design slightly larger to account for this.

03	Use the Correct Firing Profile Always follow the manufacturer’s recommended temperature and duration for each clay type. Saved programs on Prometheus kilns ensure safe and repeatable results.

04	Detail When Dry Once fully dry, you can work much more precisely with sandpaper, files, and carving tools. This stage is sometimes called “dry sculpting.”

05	Post-Firing Surface Pieces come out of the kiln looking dull — this is completely normal. Use a wire brush or tumble with steel shot for a bright finish. Liver of sulfur adds beautiful patina effects.

06	Atmosphere for Bronze & Copper These clays must be fired in a closed container in a reducing environment (such as activated carbon) to prevent oxidation. Prometheus kilns fully support this firing profile.

Prometheus Hobby

Ready to Create?

Start your metal clay journey with Prometheus. From beginner starter sets to advanced clays — everything you need is waiting for you.

Explore Metal Clays →