Surprised no one offered any answers. I just got back from a rock collecting trip started on the 3rd, so apologize for the late reply. Where to get started on describing the process of metal clay! So much info and to put that in a post would be a nightmare. One: it is easy to use and forgiving. Keep the clay hydrated and don't let it dry out however you can add water and rehydrate to an extent. You can make a piece let it dry, add more later, fire it and then add more after firing. So easy. I recommend buying a how to book on metal clay jewelry. Most have multiple beginner projects to get you started and from there, with clay, the possibilities are limitless. A tip if you want to do hollow forms is you can also use cork clay to form your negative inside shape, let that dry and then use the metal clay to form the outside, I did an Indian motif vase this way, so much fun.