How to Successfully Fire Copper Clay?
Since you’re already deep in silver clay world
Copper clay is just a slightly more dramatic cousin 😅
Same concept (burn binder → sinter metal)
But oxygen control is everything.
Kiln Firing is the most reliable method.
What You Need
Kiln (programmable preferred)
Stainless steel firing pan with lid
Activated carbon (coconut shell type is best)
Fully dried copper clay piece
Step by step
1. Dry completely
Copper clay must be bone dry.
If unsure → pre-dry at 100°C
for 20–30 mins.
Any moisture = cracks or warping.
2.Binder Burnout
Place piece directly on kiln shelf
(NO carbon yet).
Fire:
Ramp to 350–400°C
Hold for 20–30 minutes
This burns off organic binder.
You will see smoke. That’s normal.
3.Sintering (Oxygen-Free Stage)
Now the important part:
Fill pan with 1cm carbon
Place piece inside
Cover fully with carbon
Lid on
Put into kiln
Fire:
820–870°C
Hold 1–2 hours
Longer hold = stronger piece.
4.Cool Down
Let kiln cool below 200°C
before removing pan.
Do NOT
open hot carbon pan suddenly
(thermal shock risk).
Why Copper Clay Cracks
(CONMON PROBLEMS)
Copper is much less forgiving than silver.
Post-Firing Finishing
Brush with steel brush
Tumble polish
Seal with coat if needed
(Copper oxidises fast)
COPPER CLAY PRACTICE PACK
We offer free copper clay practice pack
1st kit order only, cannot be combined with other free gifts
DAZZLING DIY SILVER RING KIT
Add it togetehr with your kit
Practice before making it into silver