Intro to Art Clay Copper Metal Clay

A Copper Metal Clay Jewelry Workshop. 

 PART 1:  Monday April 20, 2026
Time: 10:00 am – 2:00 PM

PART 2:  Tuesday April 21, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Instructor:  Iliana Carrillo

Metal Clay Studio
Albuquerque, NM
(San Pedro NE & Constitution area)

Tuition: $195 – All materials are included, and students will have access to the complete range of tools and equipment needed for the workshop.

Discover the warmth, character, and versatility of Art Clay™ Copper, an innovative metal clay that fires into solid copper jewelry with a rich, earthy tone. In this introductory workshop, students will design and create a finished copper jewelry piece while learning the essential techniques required for working with copper clay.

Art Clay™ Copper is part of the Art Clay family of premium metal clays, made from 100% recycled metals. Once fired, the clay transforms into solid copper, offering a beautiful alternative for artists who enjoy the look and feel of traditional metals while exploring the creative freedom of clay.

Copper clay requires a two-phase firing process, making it slightly different from silver and bronze clay. In this workshop, students will learn how to successfully manage the drying, preparation, firing, and finishing stages to achieve strong and beautiful results.

This class is intentionally structured over two days to allow proper drying, firing in kiln, cooling, and finishing, ensuring strong, successful results without rushing the process.

What You’ll Learn

During this workshop, students will learn:

• How Art Clay™ Copper differs from silver and bronze clay

• Design considerations and shrinkage expectations when working with copper clay

• Proper drying, refining, and seam construction techniques

• Preparing pieces for two-phase kiln firing in coconut carbon

• Understanding copper firing schedules and oxidation control

• Post-firing techniques including:

  • Brushing and burnishing

  • Sanding and polishing

  • Creating natural copper patinas and finishes

All firing is done in a temperature-controlled kiln, following manufacturer-approved guidelines.

All firing is done in a temperature-controlled kiln, following manufacturer-approved guidelines.

Why Students Love Art Clay™ Copper

• Beautiful warm copper color

• More affordable than precious metals

• Ideal for textured, organic, and rustic designs

• Made from 100% recycled metal

• Excellent for mixed-metal jewelry projects

• Allows artists to explore the look of traditional copper with the creative freedom of clay

Who This Class Is For

This workshop is ideal for:

• Beginners curious about working with metal clay

• Silver clay students interested in expanding into base metals

• Jewelry makers who enjoy the look of warm copper tones

• Artists exploring mixed-metal jewelry designs

• Makers who enjoy textured or sculptural pieces

No prior copper clay experience is required.
Basic metal clay familiarity is helpful but not necessary.

Looking for a unique creative experience for a birthday, creative celebration, team building, visiting guests or just a gathering with friends?

This workshop is available as a private group class for 5–10 students.
The group organizer receives a special discount on their tuition.

To schedule a private workshop, contact Iliana Carrillo at
📧 info@ArtClayWorldAmerica.com
to arrange a date and time that works for your group.

OPEN STUDIO ELIGIBILITY

After completing this class, you will be eligible to participate in our Open Studio sessions, where you can continue developing your skills and explore new ideas. During Open Studio, you will have access to the full studio, including kilns, torches, textures, and professional tools, to create your own silver clay jewelry designs.

Disclosure:
This workshop is not affiliated with UNM Continuing Education or Santa Fe Community College. All workshops, registrations, and purchases are offered independently through this Metal Clay Studio.