I see that you can get certified in PMC? And I see that it is expensive. What are the pros & cons of becoming certified? Can you get certification through an online course rather than travel to do so?

:) Linda

 When you get certified in either PMC or Art Clay Silver, you complete specific projects designed to teach you about the product's use as well as construction. After the first certification, you are able to teach intro classes should you desire (although you can teach these classes without certification and many people do). The main reason that many people work through a certification class -- given at an instructor's studio, a bead show, or other place, but not via internet or home study -- is to obtain a discount on subsequent purchases of clay.

Thanks for the information. I'll check into courses that are available in or near to me then.

:) Linda

For me (and I have both a Rio Grande Cert and a Level 1 from PMC Connection), the main reason to take a certification course is the AWESOME teachers.  Tim McCreight's classes are full almost as soon as they are posted.  My Rio class was with CeCe Wire and I learned so much....and I had been working with Metal Clay for almost 3 years!  Each teacher has little tricks/tips that you don't read in a book or on-line.....I gotta say, if I could have gotten into one of Tim's classes this year, I would have gladly ponied up the money.....maybe next year.

 DG
http://www.dragonskindesigns.com

p.s., I was getting the 'certified' discount as a wholeseller from many of the PMC vendors before I was ever certified....so saving money was really not the reason I took the classes....

hi there,

I've been a colored pencil artist most of my life, but I've been working with metal clay for two years now.   In that time, I have accomplished some very intricate pieces.   I was looking to take the PMC level 2 class (but didn't want to take the level 1 class because I thought it would be too elementary).  

the PMC Guild requires to take Certification classes in level order, so wouldn't let me go straight to level 2 -  I understood this and it was fine. 

 I took my level 1 class from Senior Instructor Ann Phillippi and had a great time.  I did learn some new tricks and made great projects. She helped me master the syringe also.  To me, it was totally worth it.    Also, keep in mind that the certiication discount applies to more than just PMC - its also for tools, wire, and other supplies - even kilns are at a discount.    You will also meet some wonderful people that share your passion.   

I just received my certification and also thought twice because of the price.  It was totally worth it.  All supplies are provided, and even though I already had some, they were nicer than mine.  In addition, the amount of clay they give you to complete the assigned project is HUGE.  I would say that the cost of supplies equals well over half the cost of the class, so I thought it was a bargain. I was certified by Chris Darway.  He was very knowledgable and interesting to work with.  All in all I was thrilled.