Creative Copper Clay

[micpru]

Hiya,

I have just fired some of the new creative copper clay in my kiln and followed the firing instructions (1698 degrees) but the pieces have not fired properly and are all brittle and break - any ideas?

x

[amareargentum]

Sorry I've not tried the Creative Clay. is it fired in carbon?
In my experience the copper and bronze clays are pretty finicky. It seems to be the trade off between having enough oxygen and time to burn the binder out completely whilst not oxidising the metal which apparently affects sintering. I have tried Hadar Jacobson"s two stage firing schedule with some success but have found that a  single firing using a really slow ramp of the kiln (SP1 on the Paragon SC2), has been the most reliable when firing in carbon. Not sure if that helps you any.

[micpru]

Thanks - the new clay doesn't need firing in carbon but appears to snap very easily after firing in either my kiln or by torch - I will go back to the distributors for some tips I think.
x

[MeadMoon]

I had the same problem with pieces made from clay that had been left in the packet for a while (torch fired for 10 minutes up to 30 minutes).  The ones I did immediately after opening the packet were ok (torch fired for 7 minutes or so).

[micpru]

Very interesting - all my pieces were straight from the packet.  I have tried to contact the PMC Studio who are the distributors I think and I'm waiting for some advice.

Thanks

[lesleymessam]

Hi
I use AC copper clay and fire it in the kiln open shelf at 970c for 30mins then quench in water straight out of the hot kiln to remove any scale and I have never had a problem, as soon as you start putting it in carbon you get to many variables.
So I stick with what I like and know. Heres a photo.

[Pat from Canvey]

Ooooh missed this earlier. I like very much. Makes me want to try the clay.

[lesleymessam]

Thank you Pat, I love the copper
Lesley

[rocky]

Lovely work Lesley