The most exciting news is that there is new clay on the block!  PMC Pro was announced at the conference!  PMC Pro is a new silver alloy, which is stronger that any of the silver metal clays before it. It has a much longer working time, it works like butter, it's easy to carve and texture, and it is MUCH stronger as fired clay than any of the clays before it. That means it will hold up in rings, bracelets and can withstand traditional metalsmithing techniques once it's fired.  I can't get my hands on in until October, but I can't wait!  Also officially announced was the new Fast Fire Bronz clay.  This has a MUCH faster firing temperature as well as more consistent results and I’m looking forward to playing with it and trying some bigger pieces.

I purchased a lot of fun new toys for the store, including a rivet and grommet tool, so once that arrives and I master it, expect some fun and “riveting” metal projects!  I was also able to get back issues of Issue #3 of Metal Clay Artist Magazine, so if you missed out the first time around, you can still get your hands on this issue!  To read more about my time at the conference, check out www.dragonflybead.blogspot.com. 

Remember that over the summer, classes are a la carte!  If there is a class you’d like to take, simply call the store and make an appointment!  Most classes can be accommodated on a 1 on 1 basis and scheduled to fit into your busy lives.  Suggestions for new classes are always welcome!

The second session of Kids Summer Bead Camp starts on Tuesday, August 17th.  Camp meets from 9 am to 12 noon from Tuesday through Friday, August 20th.  Session 1 was a lot of fun, so sign up your crafty camper for session 2!  The cost for all 4 days of camp (including all supplies) is $100.  Call the store at 682-3207 to register.  Please register by Saturday, August 14th.

The store will be hosting another Rio Rewards PMC Certification October 8th, 9th and 10th.  This is such a wonderful class, and after my time at the PMC Conference, I’m even more excited that I’m able to offer this course at the shop!  Rio Grande hand selects the best of the best for their Senior Instructors, and Chris Darway has certainly made a name for himself in the Metal Clay world.  He is an incredibly patient and skilled instructor and just all around nice guy.  The 3-day course costs $425, which includes all the materials (and believe me, you’ll be getting a LOT of Metal Clay!).  Students will complete 7 projects, which will test student’s proficiency using PMC in a variety of ways.  New techniques will be taught and mastered.  For more information or to register, call 1-866-345-2698 or email education@riogrande.com.  After completion of the class, each student will be awarded a certificate and enrolled in the Rio Grande Rio Rewards program (which means discounts on clay and PMC tools!).  In addition, each student receives a one-year membership in the PMC guild.  And keep in mind how blissfully wonderful it is to be able to take 3 days and JUST PLAY WITH CLAY with a wonderful and patient instructor!  This class wil3l be limited to 10, so sign up early!