Along with the usual projects (there are 20), a gallery section, and resources, the meat of this text, the section that beginners will find the most useful, is the first two chapters: “Tools and Materials” and “Tips and Techniques.” This is where critical information such as how and when to use a kiln versus when you can use a torch or hot pot is discussed. In this section, Mizushima covers pretty much every clay that is on the market (though as we know this can change since metal clay seems to be improved on continually): from low firing clay that you can fire with a torch to sheet to gold clay.
This comprehensive book would make a good learning tool for the beginner (though beware, even though there are lots of great photographs, this book is text-heavy) to the more advanced metal clay artist who is looking for a good reference book.
