We know...

  • Opening that little packet can feel daunting, especially when you're not sure how fast it’ll dry out or if the end result will be worth it

  • Creating smooth, even shapes can be a challenge, and it’s disheartening when they dry too quickly or crumble before you even get them into place

  • Building up designs often leads to unintentional smudges, uneven joins, or excess clay in all the wrong places—and once it’s there, it can feel hard to fix

  • If you’re unsure of the right techniques, it’s easy to end up with stones that won’t stay put, or worse, crack or fall out after firing

  • Rolling, cutting, and texturing can be harder than it looks, and it’s frustrating when your pieces come out uneven or don’t match what you imagined

This is why we have developed the Metal Clay Beginners Bootcamp

Unlock your metal clay potential with 4 tried-and-tested projects designed to advance your skills! Taught over 5 weeks, this hands-on group course will build your confidence and creativity.

With over 30 years of combined experience teaching metal clay, Helen and Julie know exactly how to help you succeed!

We take a unique approach to online training, offering a virtual classroom experience where we get to know you and provide personalized support. You’ll also become part of a supportive community that shares ideas and helps each other grow.

Access the course whenever it suits you, and reach out to us whenever you need guidance. Our goal is simple: we want you to learn, get the help you need, and most importantly, have fun while being creative and progressing!


So if you are...

New to metal clay, or you've had a go and now want to deepen your skills, build confidence, and start creating with more intention and control— Whether you're ready to move beyond the basics or want to explore techniques that give your designs a more professional finish, this is your chance to grow and gain the confidence to finish your pieces beautifully—even from home.

And want to...

  • Create perfectly shaped and textured designs by learning how to evenly roll, texture, and cut metal clay with precision

  • Give your pieces a professional finish by adding strong, clean hanging holes, cut-outs, and well-built connections

  • Confidently set fireable stones using both push-in and bezel-setting techniques with cubic zirconia

  • Build smooth, crack-free elements with snake-rolling and layering methods that add strength and style

  • Confidently torch-fire your creations at home with ease—no kiln required

Join Us!

We run this course year-round, giving you the flexibility to choose the date that works best for you. Enrol now for any of the upcoming 2025/26 sessions listed below!

  • £79.00

    Metal Clay Beginners Bootcamp

    Starts 19th May 2025
    Enrol Now

  • £79.00

    Metal Clay Beginners Bootcamp

    Starts 6th October 2025
    Enrol Now

  • £79.00

    Metal Clay Beginners Bootcamp

    Starts 16th February 2026
    Enrol Now

What have previous students made on this course?

Take a look at Leisel's lovely sea-inspired designs...

What will I learn?

Through 4 exciting learning projects, you’ll master all the essentials of working with metal clay. We’ll cover tools, equipment, and techniques, including how to:

  • Evenly roll, texture, and cut shapes from metal clay

  • Add hanging holes and create cut-outs that are both well-finished and strong

  • Build strong connections between layers of metal clay

  • Set fireable gemstones (Cubic Zirconia) using both push-in and bezel-setting methods

  • Use pre-made moulds to create pendants and charms

  • Master snake-rolling for smooth, crack-free snakes

  • Confidently torch-fire your designs at home


Plus, you’ll also learn the essential jewellery making techniques to turn your creations into beautiful, wearable jewellery you’ll be proud to wear—or even sell!"

What are our students saying?

5 star rating

Orientation of bootcamp course

Elizabeth Macleod

Love this course. Easy videos to watch and love the fact you can go back time and again. Brilliant

Love this course. Easy videos to watch and love the fact you can go back time and again. Brilliant

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5 star rating

Bootcamp a starting point

Jeff Barnes

I had some experience of metal clay having used both copper and bronze clay previously, but the importance of this course is that it allows you to see other ...

Read More

I had some experience of metal clay having used both copper and bronze clay previously, but the importance of this course is that it allows you to see other people at work including the ‘ experts’ who offer expert advice and simplify the techniques required. In many ways what could be a torturous journey because of lack of knowledge the whole working practice is simplified making working with metal clay a delight!

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5 star rating

Excellent

Kathryn Loram

Excellent would recommend

Excellent would recommend

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5 star rating

Introduction to working with metal clay

Linda J Shea

The instructions very clear and easy to understand and follow. This is only a review of day one. The student is left with enough information to construct an...

Read More

The instructions very clear and easy to understand and follow. This is only a review of day one. The student is left with enough information to construct and finish simple forms. It would be nice to know the settings for kiln firing for those of us who have kilns but perhaps this is covered in subsequent parts of this course. This session was easy to follow, thorough, and interesting.

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5 star rating

Fits the course well

Catherine Crump

Very well laid out and easy to follow.

Very well laid out and easy to follow.

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5 star rating

Introduction to Metal Clay Beginners Bootcamp

June Spencer

The information we have been given is comprehensive and inspirational. I am looking forward to making the projects.

The information we have been given is comprehensive and inspirational. I am looking forward to making the projects.

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5 star rating

Excellent

Jacky Jones

Each part of the process is thoroughly described and demonstrated and if you are unsure then you can watch ~ again and again and again ………

Each part of the process is thoroughly described and demonstrated and if you are unsure then you can watch ~ again and again and again ………

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What's in it for me?

Participating in this course will give you...

  • Confidence

    Got the gear, bursting with ideas, and ready to dive in? We get it—starting out can feel overwhelming. Early fails, uncertainty about what to do next, or worrying you might damage something (or worse, yourself) can definitely hold you back. That’s why we guide you step-by-step, helping you build and practise your skills with confidence. You’ll have the support you need to push through and create something amazing!

  • Help when you need it

    Throughout this course, you'll have direct access to us, Julie Holt & Helen Drye—friendly, expert Metal Clay Masters and experienced Senior Tutors. We’re here because we want nothing more than for you to succeed! We’ve designed this course to ensure that we’re with you every step of the way, offering support, encouragement, and expert guidance throughout your journey.

  • Community

    Never underestimate the power of a supportive peer group! Our virtual classroom approach goes beyond just teaching you the skills—it connects you with like-minded individuals from around the world. Imagine having your very own silver clay tribe: a community of friends who cheer you on, celebrate your successes, support you through challenges, and offer a virtual hug whenever you need one.




Plus special student discounts!



How will I learn?

This course includes over 70 lessons plus bonus materials, featuring video tutorials and downloadable resources, all delivered through our easy-to-use online learning platform. It’s designed to guide you step-by-step, allowing you to download notes, revisit lessons, and move through the course at your own pace. Lessons are released weekly to keep things manageable, and we’re here to support you along the way. You can access everything at a time that suits you—no need to be available at a specific time.

With our lifetime access guarantee, you can revisit the course as many times as you like and enjoy updates as they’re released—all for just one enrolment fee. Many students love the course so much, they return with later groups to continue their learning. The more, the merrier!

Additionally, we have a Facebook group where you can ask questions, share ideas, celebrate wins (and vent frustrations!), get advice, and build lasting friendships. It's a safe, supportive space for all students. We also host live demonstrations here from time to time, perfect for tackling tricky areas. These demos are available to watch again whenever you need them.

Who are the course tutors?

We’re Helen Drye & Julie Holt, qualified Metal Clay Masters with a passion for making and teaching all things silver metal clay (and more!). As long-time metal clay enthusiasts, we’re still as excited and inspired by it as the day we opened our very first packet! We run Learn Silver Clay Online, the online academy for The Precious Metal Clay Studio, which has been specializing in metal clay since 2003. Like you, we’re obsessed with metal clay! The possibilities are endless, and there’s nothing quite like the thrill of looking at your finished piece and thinking, “I made that!”

So...in summary, this course includes...

  • Lots of exciting things to make

    4 fabulous projects, all carefully crafted to help you develop, practise, and level up your silver clay skills—from complete beginner to confident creator in just 5 weeks!

  • Everything you need to succeed

    Expert instructors and lifetime access to lesson videos and downloads, plus a wealth of ideas to help you adapt the course projects to reflect your unique style and creativity.

  • Support & encouragement as you go

    A safe, supportive space to ask questions, learn from others, share ideas, and make new friends. You’ll enjoy the journey and have fun every step of the way!

Not quite ready yet?

No worries! Sign up to our mailing list for now to get the latest updates. We promise no spam!

Sign me up!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How much experience do I need to do this course?

    None at all! If you've done some online tutorials or maybe a Taster or Introductory course, that's a great start. However, we cover all the absolute basics at the beginning, so no matter your starting point, you'll be just fine!

  • What metal clay will I work with?

    We recommend working with a torch-fireable Fine Silver clay, such as PMC, Art Clay, or Cooltools Phoenix. However, all the projects can be completed with any metal clay, as long as you have access to a compatible firing method.

  • What tools & materials do I need?

    For equipment, you’ll need a metal clay student kit, hand torch, and a block. The course materials include 40g of clay and 1 x 5mm and 1 x 3mm fireable CZ. To turn your designs into wearable jewellery, you’ll need a set of jewellery-making pliers along with a selection of pre-made chains, beads, and jewellery findings. We provide links to help you source everything you need and are always happy to advise—just ask! Additionally, we offer student discounts for those enrolled in the course.

  • I need lots of time to order materials at the moment – how will that work?

    Before the course begins, we’ll provide you with a tool and materials list so you can order your supplies as soon as possible. If there are specific suppliers we recommend, we’ll guide you to them to make sure you get exactly what you need.

  • How much time will we need to complete the course?

    You can expect to spend 4-5 hours per week on the course. While the in-class portion takes around 12 hours, at home you’ll have more flexibility to work at your own pace. Many students enjoy the luxury of having extra time to complete the lessons and projects. The course takes 5 weeks in total to complete.

  • Do I need a kiln?

    All projects in this course are torch-fireable. However, some clays require kiln-firing, so the type of metal clay you choose to work with will determine which method you need to use.

  • How will I get my certificate?

    You will be able to download your certificate on successful completion of the course

  • What if I change my mind?

    If you’ve booked more than 14 days before the course starts, you have a 14-day cooling-off period during which you can cancel your enrolment, no questions asked. After this period, or once the course begins, we regret that we are unable to offer any refunds. Once the course begins, you'll have lifetime access to the content and are welcome to join the group sessions as many times as you like. If life gets in the way and you're unable to participate in the enrolled dates, it’s not a problem—simply hop onto a later course!

  • What if I need extra one to one support?

    You’ll receive plenty of instructor support throughout the course, but if you ever feel you need extra one-to-one support, you can purchase individual sessions. These sessions are perfect for going through lessons, troubleshooting, watching demonstrations, and asking questions. They are available at an additional cost of £15 per 15-minute slot. To be honest, students have rarely needed these extra sessions, but it’s always great to have the option available if you'd like it!

Ready to kick-start your metal clay skills?

Join Us!

Enrol now for any of the upcoming 2025/26 sessions listed below!

  • £79.00

    Metal Clay Beginners Bootcamp

    Starts 19th May 2025
    Enrol Now

  • £79.00

    Metal Clay Beginners Bootcamp

    Starts 6th October 2025
    Enrol Now

  • £79.00

    Metal Clay Beginners Bootcamp

    Starts 16th February 2026
    Enrol Now