Have you ever tried to form useful models and funny objects using Polymer Clay? Well, it is an amusing technique indeed! Using this medium, you can fuel your creativity by shaping beaded necklaces, picture frames, comical structures, and more. Do you find it interesting to be a craftsman? If so, then you can learn polymer clay techniques to enrich your knowledge. In-depth ideas will help you make polymer clay craft into your profession. Go through the following question-answers and sharpen your skill.
What Is The Composition Of Polymer Clay?
Polymer Clay is composed of resins, fillers, and lots of colors, but the synthetic plastic polymer is the key component that adds flexibility to the material. Polymer clay doesn’t harden even when exposed to outside temperatures.
How Should You Store Polymer Clay?
You should correctly store polymer clay for optimal use. Make sure to keep the medium free from dust. You can wrap it around to prevent lint from entering the material. Don’t store it under direct heat or sunlight. However, you need not store it in airtight containers as it doesn’t contain any water to evaporate.
How Long Does Clay Last?
You can store polymer clay for months without any issues. The material is non-volatile, so it doesn’t catch fire easily. But excessive heat or UV rays may ruin the fabric. Clays typically last for one year but can be kept for longer if you ensure maximum protection.
Does Polymer Clay Harm Your Health?
Polymer clay is a non-toxic material, but there are few points you must remember.
- Don’t chew polymer clay and keep it out of reach of children.
- Never use cured polymer clay on utensils because it’s difficult to kill and prevent bacteria growth.
- Polymer clay doesn’t release any fumes when baked at the right temperatures. However, slight fumes won’t cause any long-lasting effect.
Can You Toughen Polymer Clay Without Using A Oven?
You should check the package of the clay brand you are purchasing because different brands have varying temperatures and have clear instructions for curing the clay. Never use polymer clay for drinking or eating. Use it only for arts and crafts.
Air-dried clays take less than 24 hours to harden and shrink after drying. You can start painting immediately after the clay has dried. Don’t overheat polymer clay because it tends to emit fumes at higher temperatures.
Do You Need Any Special Tool For Creating Artifacts With Polymer Clay?
You don’t require any unique tool but your hands and one oven to design models with polymer clay. Clay artists use different equipment to create unusual shapes using polymer clay. There are things you must remember.
- Raw clay might cause damage to the surface of plastic and wood. You can start working on a smooth surface like glass or marble or taped wax on tabletops before beginning your painting.
- If you are planning to make bids, you will need a hole for stringing. You can easily make the hole using a wooden skewer.
- A knife can be quite useful for cutting the clay. You can use any knife for the purpose.
How Can You Find The Right Gloss?
You must have seen some polymer clay that shines like glass. Yes, you can also achieve that shine in different ways. You need to apply a finish to the cured polymer clay. There are many cheap options available in the market, like Future Floor Wax and Varathane, a water-based floor sealer.
What Is The Best Way To Use Polymer Clay?
The best way to use polymer clay is to take the following steps:
- Apply protection to your work surface with aluminum foil or wax paper
- Follow the instructions and bake the clay properly using an oven.
- Allow the clay to cool down, and then start painting slowly.
- Air-dry the clay properly and store it in a fresh container
How Long Do You Need To Bake With Polymer Clay?
You will need a toaster or oven to bake polymer clay. It usually takes around 15-25 minutes to bake the clay at 275 Fahrenheit. Don’t underbake because it will cause the clay to break while making the toy or any other item.