Sculpt a design from a piece of clay. Place the clay piece onto an ovenproof dish. Ensure sure that a flat piece of aluminum foil is underneath the piece, as the metal clay can acquire shiny spots if placed directly on the bottom surface.
Place the sculpted piece into the oven before you turn it on. You want to operate the oven between 250 and 275 degrees Fahrenheit (121 degrees Celsius to 135 degrees Celsius). This will allow metal clay to gradually breakdown, leading to the evenly distribution. Do not set the oven below 210 degrees Fahrenheit (98 degrees Celsius), as the clay will not harden properly. You want to ensure that you never operate the oven over 300 degrees Fahrenheit (148 degrees Celsius). The result could do damage to your healthy. When metal clay is heated over 300 degrees Fahrenheit, the metal clay starts burns; it can release a noxious fume that can fill up your lungs. Additionally, tiny particulates will dry and flake off into the air, so it is vital that you utilize an oven thermometer for a precise temperature reading.
Allow the metal clay piece to bake for approximately 20 to 25 minutes. This time span is a reasonable amount of time for a chemical reaction to take place, hardening the outer shell of the metal clay.
Utilizing gloves or a kitchen utensil of some kind, gently poke the piece. The metal clay fixture should not be wet or moist. A properly baked piece will have a glossy outer crust. However, in many cases, the metal clay has not broken down and needs placement back into the oven in order to complete the binding process. Watch the piece carefully to see if the binding material becomes solid.
Allow the piece to stay in the oven for no more than one to five minutes. This period is dependent upon the size of the piece. If the object starts to glow or sparks occur, reduce the heat. You are looking for a glowing, peach color within the metal clay piece.
Switch off the oven when the firing is finished. Permit the object to cool in place for 20 minutes or more. Allow it to cool and completely dry before you handle the piece.
Thoroughly clean the pieces with a wire brush. Shine them with a soft cloth and metal polish.