Making Silver leaves w/ACS

When applying the 650 silver paste onto a leaf do I need to let each layer dry completely or just dry to the touch before adding each additional layer?

[Metalman]

It is best to let each layer dry completely.  I have found that if I don't, I get more curling distortion of the leaf.  It is amazing how similar to ceramic clay the Art Clay is - it will do the curl and chip thing under the right conditions.  The other aspect is that for the leaves, I have not gotten good results using a dryer to dry the leaves.  I usually start with very thinned-down paste for the first layers and gradually thicken the paste as I get nearer to the final coats.  My solution to the drying time is to make more of this type of project.  I will do say 30 leaves at the same time.  Generally, by the time I have coated leaf #30, leaf #1 is ready for a new coat - the round robin effect.  I also always have a number of projects going at any given time [lets see - right now - about 15]. This way anytime a project needs drying or has some other need I can't fill at this moment, I can go on to the next project - this keeps me at the bench, an important value.  If I leave the bench, I may not get back for days.
Leaves are a great way to use up your recycled paste. Just make sure to mix some of the new paste into it to balnce the binder.  I have found that as I recycle dried clay from my bench, the binder part of the clay doesn't work as well as new paste.

[Metalman]

Using ACS clay form or paste form , you can make some great leaf jewelry.  The above question was directed toward this and proper drying of the paste as you work. so:
Leaves w/clay
Select the leaves you wish to design with and lightly rub them with a bit olive oil.  The more distinct the veining, the stronger your image will be. Roll out some clay to about 1.5mm. Then place your leves in and roll again - down to about 1mm.  Then trim them out or rool and manipulate them into your design.Your thickness choices here are driven by your design - but remember ACS much thinner then 1mm needs to be built into a larger structure for protection and strength.  DON'T remove the leaves - you will leave them in the clay untill you fire it.
Leaves with ACS Paste
This method is mostly described in the answer above. But - a few details. 1] Don't oil the leaves for this method, in addition, some leaves repell water and won't work for this method. 2] Paint thinned paste on to the leaves, let them air dry, then paint on more coats - this can take up to 10 or 15 coats to get them heavy enough [about 1mm].  After the first few coats, you can use thicker paste.

A great book with both of these methods in it is Jackie Truty's 'Art Clay Silver and Gold'  R&T#62-399