Beyond the Bead: Copper Clay Clasps 11-13-26 In Person and Online

About the Class

In this hands-on workshop, you will step beyond basic jewelry making to master custom clasp construction using Project X Copper Clay. Working with clay in its wet state, you will explore fundamental shaping techniques like rolling uniform snakes, creating strong structural connections, and seamlessly embedding firable findings directly into your design. After learning the essentials of drying, firing, and polishing your piece to a rich, warm shine, you’ll shift gears to heavy metal assembly. You will attach solid copper jump rings to integrate a striking, heavy-gauge stainless steel chain, balancing rugged industrial tones with handcrafted copper warmth to complete a one-of-a-kind bracelet.

What You Will Learn

• Copper Clay Fundamentals: How to work with, shape, and roll smooth, even snake coils using Project X Copper clay.
• Structural Joining & Findings: Techniques for making durable clay-to-clay joins and safely embedding firable metal findings.
• Free Time & Charm Design: Students will have extra time in the middle of the day to use any left over clay to assemble charms of their liking. 
• Firing & Finishing: Discuss firing and polishing in detail.
• Mixed-Metal Assembly: Assembly examples and discussion. Students will polish and assembly their bracelets in class. 

Why You Should Take This Class

Custom clasps are the ultimate hallmark of a true artisan. Instead of hiding your closure at the back, this class empowers you to turn functional hardware into the star of the show. You will gain versatile metal clay and cold-connection skills that you can immediately apply to future jewelry designs—giving your work a professional, handcrafted signature that stands out from the crowd.

Student Skill Level

Skill Level: Beginners are welcome, though having some prior experience with metal clay is helpful for getting the most out of this project.

Designed by Cameron Lloyd