Question

I am making a metal spoon wind chime. Should the spoons have a protective coating on them especially here in Florida outside.

Bev in FL via Facebook

With no protection the metal will age which is a lovely look for outside, however if you do not want the spoons to rust then you should use a finish or sealer. The easiest way to do it is to use a spray sealer like Krylon Crystal Coat. Work in a well ventilated area, put down some newspaper or other covering for your work area. Lay down the spoons and spray in several light coats (rather than one thick coat).

When using a spray finish try to avoid spraying on a day with high humidity, which isn’t always easy in Florida! Hold the can at least 6” away from the object you are spraying to get the most even coat. You can always use brush on sealers. Just remember to let the sealing medium dry completely between coats for best results.

Maria Nerius is our Resident Craft Expert here at FaveCrafts.com and she loves to answer your questions, just drop her an e-mail at Maria@FaveCrafts.com or post to her Facebook Wall: Maria Given Nerius.

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Ask Maria “Protecting Metal for Outside Use”

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Metal clay can be used in the same way as polymer clay, but once fired, metal clay leaves only the metal behind (silver, bronze or copper). This book features 24 suberb jewelry projects using metal clay, including earrings, pins, pendants and more. Read the full review and enter to win a copy here.

Contest ends December 15, 2009. You can enter once daily, so return often to improve your chances of winning!

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Book Review and Giveaway: Metal Clay, Beyond the Basics

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Creative Metal™ Beginner Kit
Walnut Hollow
Skill Level:  Beginner
Reviewed by Maria Nerius

Metal Beginner Kit from Walnut Hallow

This kit includes 26 pieces: Metal scissors, metal ruler, texture tool, mini design (leaf), 2 handles, 18 interchangeable points for the handles, a foam mat, practice metal, and a well designed storage case for all the tools. It was tested with other Walnut Hollow products: Aluminum Metal Roll, Metal Tape, and Design Sheets.  The possibilities in metal crafting are do-able with this kit.

Testing Feedback

• Great kit for men and women of all age groups from teens to seniors.
• The organizer the kit comes in is easy to store and since you can see through the container you know what you have with just a glance.
• Well thought out product line.  All your metal crafting needs are available.
• Great for the novice, but more advanced crafters will enjoy too.
• Metal scissors are the best cutting tool for metal crafting, easy to control.
• Comfortable tip handle for easy gripping, no hand stress.
• Creating textures with the Design Sheets adds interest to projects.
• Metal tape really bonds and holds.
• Instructions were well-written, easy to follow, and included lots of ideas and tips.

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Product Review: Creative Metal™ Beginner Kit

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