Foundation Certificate - Silvers, Base Metals or both!

After paying, you will need to send your YouTube email address to Ros Bailey either through FB messenger or email - info@aussiemetalclay.com (Messenger preferred). If you need any assistance, please contact Ros Bailey for assistance.
To find your YouTube email address please go into YouTube, in the upper right-hand corner you will see either your initial or your icon, would you please click on that and send me what the email address is that is attached to it.
You may NOT resell, modify, share or claim any part of this video or this digital download file as your own work.
Please give credit to the author of this, or any, tutorial when using these techniques.
Embark on a transformative journey in your artistic endeavours by prioritizing self-investment. Elevate your craft, not just through passion, but through deliberate efforts to enhance your skills and techniques. Dedicate time to hone your abilities, explore new methods, and unlock your full potential as an artist.
Challenge yourself to step out of your comfort zone and embrace growth. By investing in yourself, you lay the foundation for a brighter artistic future. Gain confidence in your abilities as you master new techniques and refine existing ones. Let your dedication shine through as you commit to continuous improvement.
As you progress, consider pursuing certification to validate your newfound expertise. Let your certification serve as a testament to your commitment to excellence and your readiness to take on new opportunities. Whether it's through formal accreditation or specialized training, seek recognition for your skills and knowledge.
Dream big and set your sights on new horizons. Take the skills you've acquired and explore teaching opportunities as an AMC (Aussie Metal Clay) instructor. Share your expertise with others and inspire them to embark on their own artistic journeys. As you guide others, you further solidify your mastery and leave a lasting impact on the creative community.
Remember, your potential as an artist knows no bounds. The greatness you achieve is directly proportional to the investments you make in yourself. Join our certification program designed specifically for aspiring metal clay artists and educators eager to elevate their craft. Together, let's sculpt a future where creativity knows no limits.

Foundation Technique Certification Course

Build confidence in the essential Aussie Metal Clay techniques with this comprehensive Foundation Technique Certification course.

This course is designed to help you develop, practise, and submit a range of foundational metal clay techniques for assessment. Upon successful completion, you will receive a Foundation Technique Certificate.

Please note: this course does not certify you as an Aussie Metal Clay Certified Instructor. Once you complete your Foundation Technique Certification, you will receive guidance on the next steps to progress toward becoming a Level One Aussie Metal Clay Certified Instructor.

Once you have completed the Aussie Metal Clay Foundation Course you can apply to complete your Level one Teachers Certification

Certification Options

The Foundation Technique Certification offers flexible certificate options. You may choose to complete your certification in:

Base Metal
Silver
Both Base Metal and Silver

Duplicate certificates are available if you complete more than one category. ‍

What You Will Learn

This course covers a wide range of core metal clay skills, including:

• Working with textures, templates, and moulds

• Doming and draping techniques

• Creating and attaching bails

• Weaving and syringe weaving

• Using embeddables and findings

• Creating leaf-textured pendants

• Making hollow lentil beads

• Setting CZ stones

• Creating matching embellishments

• Sanding and refining greenware

• Torch firing .999 silver

• Kiln firing silver, .960 silver, Argentium silver, and base metals

• Finishing and polishing fired pieces

Course Outline

Video 1: Introduction, Products, Tools and Safety

In this section, Ros Bailey and Kim Booklass introduce the Technique Certification course and the Aussie Metal Clay product range.

Topics include:

• Aussie Metal Clay base metals

• .999 and .960 silver clays

• ClayStay Syringe

• ClayStay Pen

• ClaySpray

• Aussie Lube and essential oil release agents

• Suggested tools

• Drying equipment

• Drying tests

• Tumblers

• Kiln containers

• Safety essentials

Video 2: Core Techniques in Silver and Base Metal

This video introduces key forming, firing, and construction techniques.

Topics include:

• Templates, textures, and moulds

• Doming in silver

• Draping and embeddables in silver

• Weaving in silver

• Kiln firing .999 silver

• Syringe weaving and bails in base metal

• Draping and embeddables in base metal

• Stage 1 burn-off for base metal

• Stage 2 sintering for base metal

• Working with .960 Aussie Metal Clay Argentium

• Torch burn-off

• Firing setup

• Benefits of Argentium silver clay

Video 3: Real Leaf Pendant and Torch Firing

This video focuses on creating a nature-inspired design using a real leaf.

Topics include:

• Creating a leaf pendant from a real leaf

• Creating a butterfly from a mould

• Creating and attaching a leaf tendril or bail

• Cleaning your design

• Torch firing your design

• Burnishing your finished piece

Video 4: Hollow Forms, Bails, CZ Setting and Finishing

This section covers more advanced construction and finishing techniques.

Topics include:

• Making domes

• Joining domes

• Making a clay sheet

• Checking that clay is dry

• Rehydrating clay

• Creating a bail

• “Waking up” your clay

• Choosing embellishment tools

• Forming a CZ bezel

• Creating uniform embellishment balls

• Kiln burn-off and sintering for beads

• Final design review

• Finishing techniques

Recommended Tools and Supplies

Recommended tools for this course include:

• Silicone or non-stick mat

• Roller

• Tissue cutter or blades

• Kim’s ClaySpray rehydrator

• Kim’s ClayStay metal clay glue

• Aussie Lube release agent

• Thickness slats or playing cards

• Clay pick

• Craft or Exacto knife

• Sanding pads in various grades

• Rubber sanding block

• Toothpicks

• Ball tools

• Silicone-tipped sculpting tools

• Pencil

• Stirrer

• Airtight container

• Syringe or extruder

• Craft punches

Recommended Firing Supplies

Kiln Firing

• Kiln

• Wire rack

• Kiln shelf

• Kiln feet

• Premium activated coconut carbon specifically for metal clay

• Firing medium for silver or base metals, as required

• Firing blanket

Torch Firing

• Butane torch

• Butane refills

• Charcoal block

• Soldering tripod

Safety Information

Safety is an important part of working with metal clay. Always follow manufacturer instructions, work in a suitable area, and use common sense when handling materials, tools, and firing equipment.

Some people may be sensitive to metals and may experience skin reactions. Gloves or a barrier cream may help minimise contact. Always wash your hands thoroughly after handling metal clay, and do not eat or drink in your workspace.

When sanding dry clay, small airborne particles may irritate the sinuses, lungs, or throat. Wear a dust mask and gloves, and ensure good ventilation.

When firing with a torch or kiln, keep appropriate safety equipment nearby, such as a fire extinguisher or fire blanket.

Firing Safety

Torch Firing

Before torch firing:

• Remove flammable objects and materials from your work area

• Wear clothing that is not loose or dangling

• Tie back long hair

• Wear closed-toe shoes

• Protect your eyes with green #3 safety glasses or goggles

• Fire in a well-ventilated area

Kiln Firing

When kiln firing:

• Place your kiln on a stable, non-flammable surface

• Allow approximately 30 cm or 12 inches of clearance around the kiln

• Follow the kiln manufacturer’s setup and use instructions

• Wear green #3 safety glasses or goggles when looking into a hot kiln

• Fire in a well-ventilated area

Firing Supports and Mediums

Some metal clay designs may require support during firing.

Common support materials include:

Finishing and Polishing

Fired metal clay is extremely hot immediately after firing. Allow pieces to cool naturally before handling.

Never uncover a design containing gemstones or glass cabochons while hot, as these materials may be prone to thermal shock.

Use tongs, tweezers, or long-handled pliers to move hot pieces to a non-flammable cooling surface. Heat-resistant gloves and long sleeves can also help protect against residual heat.

When polishing, ensure good ventilation and wear gloves, a particulate mask, and eye protection.

Using Power Tools

Power tools can make metal clay finishing easier, but they must be used safely.

When using power tools:

• Tie back long hair

• Avoid loose clothing

• Wear suitable eye protection

• Wear an appropriate dust mask or respirator

• Work in a well-ventilated area

• Use a dust collection system where possible

• Follow manufacturer recommendations

Progressing to Level One Instructor Certification

After completing your Foundation Technique Certification, you may choose to progress toward becoming a Level One Aussie Metal Clay Certified Instructor.

To apply for Level One Instructor Certification, you will need to:

• Create another set of original designs demonstrating all required techniques

• Submit the designs to Roslyn Bailey via Facebook Messenger or email

• Submit either:

  • a video slideshow with written instructions for one project from start to finish, or

  • a full video showing one of your pieces from start to finish

• Pay the one-time Teacher Certification Fee of $65.00 to Roslyn Bailey

Disclaimer

It is mandatory that you conduct your own testing on all techniques, processes, products, materials, and methods shown or taught in Aussie Metal Clay Pty Ltd Technique Certification courses.

Aussie Metal Clay Pty Ltd assumes no liability or responsibility and makes no express or implied guarantees, representations, or warranties regarding the information, processes, materials, or services provided in this course.

By participating in this course, you understand that the use of anything shown or taught is at your own risk.