Bent out of Shape: Copper Bracelet with Carrie Story 2-5-27 Tucson

Forget subtle—bend the rules and transform raw copper clay into a show-stopping, vintage-inspired statement cuff that commands attention.

Date: Friday, Feb 5, 2027

Time: Session 1 9:00am - 11:00pm, Return for Session 2 4:00pm - 5:30pm

Location: Casino del Sol, 5655 W. Valencia Rd, Tucson AZ 85757 Meeting Room B

Instructor: Carrie Story

Class Overview

In this hands-on workshop, you will explore the alchemy of copper metal clay as you design and craft a vintage-inspired, spoon-style cuff bracelet. We will start with raw copper clay, imprinting rich, intricate textures and shaping custom panels reminiscent of antique silver spoon handles. You’ll navigate the entire process from wet clay preparation to kiln firing, followed by post-fire techniques where the real magic happens: curving the solid metal, polishing to highlight every textured groove, and assembling the finished pieces with hardware and a matching charm.

What You Will Learn

• Copper Clay Fundamentals: How to properly handle, condition, and roll copper metal clay.
• Texturing & Surface Design: Techniques for deep-embossing intricate floral patterns into wet clay.
• Forming & Sculpting: Creating vintage spoon-handle shapes and custom focal components.
• Firing & Metal Metamorphosis: Understanding the firing process that turns pliable clay into solid, durable copper metal.
• Post-Fire Shaping: Cold-forming, bending, and curving fired copper without compromising structural integrity.
• Finishing & Assembly: Polishing, antiquing/patinating for depth, and connecting components with jump rings and clasps.

Why You Should Take This Class

This class offers the ultimate balance of creative play and technical metalworking skill. If you've ever wanted to turn pliable, soft clay into a heavy-gauge, wearable piece of solid metal jewelry, this is your chance. You will walk away not only with a unique, heirloom-quality copper bracelet crafted entirely by your own hands, but also with foundational metal clay techniques you can apply to future jewelry-making projects.

About the Instructor

Carrie Story is a passionate artist, educator, and metal clay expert known for her approachable teaching style and innovative techniques. With years of experience guiding students through the magic of metal clay, Carrie brings high energy, technical precision, and creative encouragement to every workshop, ensuring each student leaves with a finished piece they are proud to wear.

Experience Level

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