1. Polymer Clay Requires an Oven Polymer clay needs to be baked in an oven to harden. If you don’t have access to an oven, consider using air-dry clay instead. You can bake your clay right in your pendant trays.
2. Conditioning Polymer Clay is Crucial Conditioning softens the clay and ensures even distribution of plasticizers, preventing cracks and making the clay easier to work with. I use a pasta making rolling machine, however kneading the clay with your hand to warm it up works great.
3. Multiple Ways to Color Polymer Clay You can mix colored clays like paints to achieve desired shades or use alcohol inks and Pearl Ex powders with white or translucent clay for vibrant and shimmering effects.
4. Your Hands Are Your Best Tools Learning to handle the clay properly is essential. While tools are helpful, mastering the touch and grip will significantly improve your work.
5. Mixing Different Brands of Polymer Clay Combining brands like Sculpey III and Premo can create a better consistency. Adjust baking temperatures accordingly for optimal results.
6. Use Rubbing Alcohol for Cleaning Rubbing alcohol is excellent for cleaning hands, workspace, and smoothing out clay surfaces. Keep some handy for quick clean-ups. I also use rubbing alcohol and my fingers to smooth my design before baking.
7. Translucent Liquid Sculpey (TLS) for Extra Bond TLS acts as a glue for bonding clay pieces and is especially useful for adding stability. Apply sparingly to prevent slipping.
8. Translucent Clay as a Versatile Tool Translucent clay can soften other clays and extend your colors. It blends well without significantly altering the original color.
9. Invest in an Oven Thermometer An accurate oven thermometer ensures your clay bakes at the correct temperature, preventing undercooking or burning.
10. Support Your Clay While Baking Prevent drooping by using proper armatures or supports, especially for pieces with upward extensions like wings or tails. As I said I bake my pieces right in my metal pendant trays.
11. Bake Polymer Clay Multiple Times Prebake delicate parts and build upon them in stages. Follow the package's temperature guidelines for successful multiple bakes.
12. Sanding for a Polished Finish Wet sanding after baking can smooth and polish your pieces. Plan to glaze or buff to minimize visible sanding marks.
13. Various Glazing Options You don’t have to stick to Sculpey glaze. Alternatives like Varathane polyurethane, triple thick, or spray-on glazes can achieve different finishes based on your preference.
These 13 essential tips will help you navigate the world of polymer clay with confidence. I hope you find these tips helpful?
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