Make Your Own Metal Clay Punches (4PAM_12)

[Wanaree Tanner]

Ever find yourself with in the middle of a metal clay project and couldn't locate a punch or clay cutter in the right size or shape? I've been experimenting with  "granulation" or "pebbling" in metal clay lately, and the one thing that became apparent was the need to come up with some punches/cutters in unique shapes and sizes. As you can see in the piece "Sophia," that along with the circular granulation, there is also a tear drop shape. 

This tear drop is much smaller then the same shape cutter you can buy commercially, so where did I get these tiny punches? You may be surprised how easy it is to make these little guys for yourself, in a variety of shapes that you can use on wet and dry clay. There just something incredibly gratifying about making your own tools too! Click on the image below and it'll take you to Goggle Docs, where you can print or download the full PDF.