How to make a chain link of clay

Scetch. Draw patterns of all the parts you need and cut the patterns out.

Cut out a lump of clay, soften it between your hands. If you have to add more clay, make sure you don't leave any air in it.

Roll out the clay using a plastic pipe or a rolling pin. Use measuring sticks as shown in the picture below to ensure the clay has the same diameter from one end to the other.

Cut the pieces off using the pattern and a knife. If there are any marks on the clay, press them lightly on the clay (see the pictures below).

When making cylinders, you have to attach the ends together. Use the basic attaching method - criss-cross both surfaces with a knife, add slip over criss-crossings and press the surfaces together. Smooth the edges with a wooden tool or your finger.

 Before attaching the cylinders to the layers, leave all parts to dry and harden a little to keep their shape.

You can make the caps on the link using a plastic mold or just making the right shape with your hands.

Check the size of the cap and attach them. Use the same method as before.

Leave clay to dry and harden again before finishing it. You can scratch and burnish the clay with a spoon once the clay is hard enough.

Fire the clay and when it is fired once you can glaze it. I used a matt dark golden glazing, but something went wrong and it came out very yellowish and shiny. It had also twisted in the second firing.

I put some more glazing on cracked/twisted places an decided to try to re-fire it.

The final piece