2goodclaymates has an entire section in their Art Fire studio just for the men in our lives.
Check out Something For Him at 2goodclaymates.artfire.com
Check out Something For Him at 2goodclaymates.artfire.com
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Sunday, May 24, 2009
Saturday, May 23, 2009
How to make your own Rondelle Beads by 2goodclaymates
Need a bead and cannot find it in the color you need? Solution: another great tutorial by 2goodclaymates. This one is for making rondelle beads.
How to make your own rondelle beads by 2goodclaymates
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Ask a Smoosher
Got a polymer clay question? Just click "smooshing thoughts" below and put your question(s) in a reply to this post. Various artists will answer your questions and we will post them here on the blog in a few days.
Please ask your questions by Friday, May 22nd at midnight Central US/Mexico time.
Please ask your questions by Friday, May 22nd at midnight Central US/Mexico time.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Random Tips
Always keep everything you use near unbaked clay clean. Work surface, tools, your hands etc. Do not wear clothes that might release loose fibers because you might not even notice the fibers in the clay until it is too late.
I use both wipes and paper towels. I keep them in a square plastic gladware sandwich container. I cut paper towels into quarters, pour about a ½ inch of alcohol in the container and place the paper towels in on the alcohol. Keeping it in this container keeps them from drying out. I use them to clean my work surface, tools, pasta machine, my hands, etc.
I learned a neat tip from http://www.polymerclayfan.com/ for adhering unbaked clay onto baked clay. Take a cotton swab (q-tip) and put a very thin film of petroleum jelly onto the cooked clay where you want to add on more unbaked clay. It works wonderfully!
Do you have a random tip you would like to share?
Polymer Clay Buttons Tutorial by 2goodclaymates
Do you have a blouse that you love but don't like the buttons on it? Or would you like to have buttons that are more original and your own style?
2goodclaymates has a great tutorial showing us how to make polymer clay buttons. It is on her blog HERE.
Thank you! 2goodclaymates.artfire.com
2goodclaymates has a great tutorial showing us how to make polymer clay buttons. It is on her blog HERE.
Thank you! 2goodclaymates.artfire.com
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Tool Drool
Alley goop is as 6 minute silicone rubber mold putty system. I was reluctant to buy it at first because it is kind of expensive. You can find alternatives of this at Michaels I think.
Anyway, you mix equal parts of A and B together until it is all uniform in color. Then all you have to do is mold the object into the goo, wait 6 minutes, and then it is set. It is really easy to use and no brush on rubber or anything.
The molds themselves would last quite a bit before it loses its shape. However, since they are so easy to use even if it starts losing its shape it is not a problem! You can simply make another one.
intothedawn.artfire.com shares Handy Little Hand Drill
Sometimes power drills, no matter how fun they are, just aren’t the answer. Especially when it comes to small beads, big power drills and safety. The solution:
Usually a needle tool or bead skewers do the trick for making usable holes for stringing beads, but sometimes I like to use 1mm or 2mm cord instead of wire, so I find I need a bigger bead hole. I can make a bigger hole in my beads before baking, but there’s always a risk of deforming the bead while making a larger hole if the clay is raw. I find its much easier to just poke a “starter” hole in the bead and then enlarge the hole by hand drilling after baking.
I found this little hand drill at Hobby Lobby for under $4. It came with 2 sizes of bits and I can use more sizes snagged from my husband’s tool kit. Be sure to enlarge the hole gradually, going up a size or two at a time-- too big of a drill bit too early on can damage your bead.
Of course, if you can’t find a hand drill or won’t use one much so you‘d prefer not to buy one, an alternative is just to clamp the drill bit with pliers and turn the bead on the bit with your opposite hand. Works just as well!
Another great alternative is to make a set of drill bits with polymer clay handles. Use up your scrap clay or make them nice and fancy in your favorite colors. If you have photos of handmade poly clay tools to share, please be sure to leave us a comment with photo links. We’d love to see them!
Monday, May 18, 2009
MANIC MONDAY: Storing Your Poly Clay Stuff
MANIC MONDAY: Storing Your Poly Clay Stuff
by intothedawn
Last week we explored a way to organize your clay. But what about all that other important stuff you have for claying? Storage bins to the rescue!
These storage bins are from the United Solutions “Organize Your Home” product line and are perfect for so many claying extras that accumulate. The bins come in several sizes including ones that fit CD’s, magazines and there’s even a “mini” bin. They also come in several colors. They can be found at Hobby Lobby and other retailers for around $10 and under, depending on size.
In this bin I have my bottles of glues, varnish, acrylic paints for patinas, liquid clay and more.
In the second bin I keep my acrylic rods and rollers, mica powder containers and packages of foils and leafing. Both of these storage containers fit perfectly on a bookshelf next to my work space, so I can pull them out and access them easily while claying. By the way, if you want to stash your pasta machine when its not in use, take off the clamp and handle and it fits right into the size bins pictured! The table clamp and handle will fit in there too, nice and neat.
As you can see, I love these bins! I have more in my craft closet full of other crafting supplies. If you’re in to labeling, you can get stick-on label windows at your office supply store, or, just whip out the Sharpies and write right on the container.
These are my storage solutions for some of my claying extras. What solutions have you come up with for yours? Please share!
by intothedawn
Last week we explored a way to organize your clay. But what about all that other important stuff you have for claying? Storage bins to the rescue!
These storage bins are from the United Solutions “Organize Your Home” product line and are perfect for so many claying extras that accumulate. The bins come in several sizes including ones that fit CD’s, magazines and there’s even a “mini” bin. They also come in several colors. They can be found at Hobby Lobby and other retailers for around $10 and under, depending on size.
In this bin I have my bottles of glues, varnish, acrylic paints for patinas, liquid clay and more.
In the second bin I keep my acrylic rods and rollers, mica powder containers and packages of foils and leafing. Both of these storage containers fit perfectly on a bookshelf next to my work space, so I can pull them out and access them easily while claying. By the way, if you want to stash your pasta machine when its not in use, take off the clamp and handle and it fits right into the size bins pictured! The table clamp and handle will fit in there too, nice and neat.
As you can see, I love these bins! I have more in my craft closet full of other crafting supplies. If you’re in to labeling, you can get stick-on label windows at your office supply store, or, just whip out the Sharpies and write right on the container.
These are my storage solutions for some of my claying extras. What solutions have you come up with for yours? Please share!
Sunday, May 17, 2009
You had questions, we have answers
I've seen things in tutorials that say you can paint the clay with acrylic paint...is this before, or after, or "pick one"?
Yes you can paint on the clay with acrylics and I do it after the clay is baked. You'll also want to glaze the clay after you paint it so the paint doesn't scratch off.
LaDeDaCreations
You can do it either before or after. Personally I prefer before because then the paint bakes into the clay and it won't smear after it is baked. You can paint it afterwards too but I find that the paint smears and you have to seal it to make it smearproof. Seal it after the paint dries.
gamekitty
you can use it on raw clay OR baked clay. it all depends on the look you are going after. I use it on textured items both raw and baked.
Dragonsglass
If you're wanting to add a patina to your piece you will want to paint with acrylic paints after you bake and be sure to varnish to protect the paint. If you're using acrylic paint as part of a faux technique (such as faux turquoise) or for a layer in mokume gane, you would paint the raw clay.
intothedawn
Painting can be done on either raw or baked clay. I like using a very faint acrylic wash on my sculptures after they are cured just for a little bit of color here and there.
For other things I really like mixing my own colors with just clay, no paint.
ColtPixy
Seriously, how do you get the translucent to BE translucent and not look like fish scales? (Never had much luck with it in the past, but want to try it again)
The translucent always turns out kind of milky looking and not actually clear. So I'm not sure if there's a trick to that or not.
LaDeDaCreations
I have heard that one way to get it 'clearer' is to drop it in ice water straight out of the oven. I havent tried it yet, so I dont know if it works. I've also heard that 'Sculpey Premo Frost' ends up the 'clearest', but that none end up looking like glass or anything.
HaffinaCreations
1) You can tent your work with foil. That does not always work though.
2) Bury your work in corn starch before baking and then sand it afterwards (never tried it; heard it from Cindy Lietz)
3) Bleach your work by soaking it in bleach until it becomes more clear (never tried that either)
4) Use a different brand of poly clay (people have good things to say about Kato translucent or frost premo; never tried it either)
5) Glaze your work after you are done.
6) If you are embedding it in resin, you don't have to bake it. Just pour a layer of resin on the mold you are using. Wait for the resin to cure completely. Then put your unfinished clay work in the mold and pour another layer of resin until it covers it, and wait for it to cure. The clay is then "sandwiched" between the resin and it has a cool effect.
gamekitty
It is never truly translucent. The best way to make it appear so is to use very very thin slices, bake it in a covered pan at the right temp, put item directly in ice bath and sand the heck out of it
Gingerbells
Translucent clay: the trick is practice. The translucent has to be super super thin to not leave the "fish scale" look. When slicing a cane it has to be almost tissue paper thin for you to almost eliminate the shadow. You can also trim away the translucent from the slice to help out. the rest is sanding sanding and some more sanding.
Dragonsglass
Translucent clay is tricky to work with. Some of the "scales" may be little pockets of air trapped, so be careful when conditioning clay so that no air gets trapped. Also, be sure that translucent clay gets conditioned enough. I find that if I don't condition the clay long enough, I tend to see little scaly looking spots. For translucent pieces to really look their best, sanding is the key. Sand with at least 4 different grits (400 to 1000) of wet/dry sandpaper to bring out the translucent layers in your pieces. The more sanding you do with more and finer grits, the better it will look.
intothedawn
In all these cane tutorials, I see these HUGE fat canes. I know you are supposed to reduce it, but if you are only going to make a handful of beads, what do most of YOU do with the extra?? I'd hate to waste that much clay for just 10 beads.
As far as the extra clay from the canes, I use it as scrap for other projects so nothing is wasted. Say I'm making an incense burner and I want to use a certain pattern, I will take my scraps, make them into a ball and get it good an soft then slice the pieces off of the pattern I want to use and place it all over my scrap ball and shape the burner how ever I want. Or you can make a pendant with the same concept just smaller.
LaDeDaCreations
Sometimes I keep the cane for later, I might decide to make something with it later. Other times I smoosh it up and make swirly cabochons or beads. Sometimes I smoosh it up and use it for bead centres.. with different canes over the top.
Haffina
You can use the huge canes for all kinds of things: beads, slices, pattern sheets, resin embeds, cool color mixes, etc... I keep them around in ziploc bags so that when I can find a use for it I can just warm it up with my hands to condition it a little and then slice. There are many ways to revive an old cane, but I don't keep canes long enough for me to find out how long they last.
gamekitty
Make more beads :o). really I just keep the extra and use it on other projects or combine them to make other more complex canes. Canes are addicting. No clay is ever wasted you can always find ways to use it, I have a covered dish os scrap that I use for bead guts and the inside of sculpts.
Gingerbells
huge fat canes....my favorite :) I am a cane maker. I make huge canes. I reduce them and cut them into 2" long sections and sell them. Sometimes I use my canes on pieces, but most of the time they are to be sold.
Dragonsglass
The perfect solution to lots of extra canes-- SELL THEM! There are many PC artists that simply make and sell raw canes to people who want to make their own beads for jewelry designs, but aren't interested in making canes. Do a little online research to find out what size cane is going for what kind of price, and put 'em in your store for sale!
intothedawn
This is one of my very favorite things about this medium there is virtually no waste. This makes practicing new things very economical.
ColtPixy
For the jewelry makers...where do you get your necklace bails?
I normally make my bails with wire, dont really like most of the bails you can buy. If I'm making a pendant in polymer clay I will sometimes make a loop with a piece of wire and embed it in the pendant before I bake it.
Haffina
You can find them on ebay under aanraku bails. They have a flat back where you can apply glue on there if you do not want to pierce a hole in the clay before baking. If you do pierce the clay before baking you can find bails everywhere: type in pendent bails on google or ebay and you will find tons of sources and styles.
gamekitty
There are great supply sellers on Artfire, I also like online shops like Artbeads.com
Gingerbells
I make most of mine with wire of aluminum flashing. However, there are many places on the internet you can get them. Rings n Things has them, Fire Mountain gems has them and so on. Google jewelry bails.
Dragonsglass
I often like to use clay to make bails for my pendants (or make it part of my pendant) like this necklace:
Other favorite techniques include using eyepins (available at any craft store) or creating large holes in pendants so I can string them on cords like this:
intothedawn
All of the above and I have even used an eye pin wrapped in fine wire to give it tooth for the clay to hold onto.
ColtPixy
where can I get a clay gun? I saw a tutorial I want to try, and think I may need one.
I got my gun at Hobby Lobby.
LaDeDaCreations
There are various types of clay guns. Kemper and sculpey make the basic ones but they are the hardest to use. Makins have one with a hand crank which I thought is clever. My personal favorite is a clay gun that looks like a garlic press! However, I recommend a kemper one you can get the adapter that makes it squirt clay out like a caulking gun. You can find them easier on ebay or google. I never had much luck with craft stores to find the right thing.
gamekitty
I love the Makins brand clay extruder, I got mine online from polymerclayexpress.com
Gingerbells
The one I recommend is the Makins professional with the twist for pushing the clay. They can be found online in many stores like polymer clay express, clay alley, ebay and so on
Dragonsglass
The Makin's Clay Extruder is available at Hobby Lobby and online.
intothedawn
Why is this stuff so dang addicting??? I messed with clay for HOURS last night, and lost track of the time!!
For me, clay is addicting because I can smash it, beat it with a rolling pin, poke holes in it, then stick it in the oven and not have to do all those things to my husband! LOL!
LaDeDaCreations
Because its fun..
Haffina
It is addictive to me because it is squishy and you can do all kinds of different things with them. Plus it is fun to be a kid and mess around with clay and you can bake it to save it.
gamekitty
yup that happens, I have lost many hours of sleep thinking of all the cool things that can be done with it. Give in Resistance is futile........
Gingerbells
Better to be addicted to clay then drugs in my book :D Enjoy the addiction for there are NO 12 step programs for us :)
Dragonsglass
Because there's never a dull moment with clay! There's so much you can do with it, you never run out of fun new ideas to try.
intothedawn
For me it is addicting because it is never boring. The things that can be done with it seem limitless. My first love with polymer clay was sculpting then I became entranced with mica shift and mokume gane. Now I find myself attracted to textures. Never boring at all.
ColtPixy
Can I use polymer clay over an aluminum cuff bracelet or will the clay crack? How thick would it need to be if I could and can the clay be worn next to the skin?
You can I have done it before with nice results.
The bracelet will not be flexible so make sure it fits before you cover it.
I use #2 thickness on my Atlas PM.
I have never had a problem wearing the clay next to my skin.
Cuffs are nice but I prefer to make and wear bangles. They are a more sturdy wearable bracelet.
Gingerbells
i know the clay can be worn on the skin. but if you have air pockets it will crack.
KellysClayCreations
I have never used the aluminum cuffs before but yes you can wear polymer clay next to your skin.
LaDeDaCreations
You can use an aluminum cuff but you will need to use a strong clay that is not brittle after baking. Cover the cuff armature with a thin coat Sobo or similar PVA glue and let it dry. This will give the cuff a bit of tooth for the clay to hold onto. Polymer clay is fine to be worn next to the skin.
ColtPixy
Yes you can paint on the clay with acrylics and I do it after the clay is baked. You'll also want to glaze the clay after you paint it so the paint doesn't scratch off.
LaDeDaCreations
You can do it either before or after. Personally I prefer before because then the paint bakes into the clay and it won't smear after it is baked. You can paint it afterwards too but I find that the paint smears and you have to seal it to make it smearproof. Seal it after the paint dries.
gamekitty
you can use it on raw clay OR baked clay. it all depends on the look you are going after. I use it on textured items both raw and baked.
Dragonsglass
If you're wanting to add a patina to your piece you will want to paint with acrylic paints after you bake and be sure to varnish to protect the paint. If you're using acrylic paint as part of a faux technique (such as faux turquoise) or for a layer in mokume gane, you would paint the raw clay.
intothedawn
Painting can be done on either raw or baked clay. I like using a very faint acrylic wash on my sculptures after they are cured just for a little bit of color here and there.
For other things I really like mixing my own colors with just clay, no paint.
ColtPixy
Seriously, how do you get the translucent to BE translucent and not look like fish scales? (Never had much luck with it in the past, but want to try it again)
The translucent always turns out kind of milky looking and not actually clear. So I'm not sure if there's a trick to that or not.
LaDeDaCreations
I have heard that one way to get it 'clearer' is to drop it in ice water straight out of the oven. I havent tried it yet, so I dont know if it works. I've also heard that 'Sculpey Premo Frost' ends up the 'clearest', but that none end up looking like glass or anything.
HaffinaCreations
1) You can tent your work with foil. That does not always work though.
2) Bury your work in corn starch before baking and then sand it afterwards (never tried it; heard it from Cindy Lietz)
3) Bleach your work by soaking it in bleach until it becomes more clear (never tried that either)
4) Use a different brand of poly clay (people have good things to say about Kato translucent or frost premo; never tried it either)
5) Glaze your work after you are done.
6) If you are embedding it in resin, you don't have to bake it. Just pour a layer of resin on the mold you are using. Wait for the resin to cure completely. Then put your unfinished clay work in the mold and pour another layer of resin until it covers it, and wait for it to cure. The clay is then "sandwiched" between the resin and it has a cool effect.
gamekitty
It is never truly translucent. The best way to make it appear so is to use very very thin slices, bake it in a covered pan at the right temp, put item directly in ice bath and sand the heck out of it
Gingerbells
Translucent clay: the trick is practice. The translucent has to be super super thin to not leave the "fish scale" look. When slicing a cane it has to be almost tissue paper thin for you to almost eliminate the shadow. You can also trim away the translucent from the slice to help out. the rest is sanding sanding and some more sanding.
Dragonsglass
Translucent clay is tricky to work with. Some of the "scales" may be little pockets of air trapped, so be careful when conditioning clay so that no air gets trapped. Also, be sure that translucent clay gets conditioned enough. I find that if I don't condition the clay long enough, I tend to see little scaly looking spots. For translucent pieces to really look their best, sanding is the key. Sand with at least 4 different grits (400 to 1000) of wet/dry sandpaper to bring out the translucent layers in your pieces. The more sanding you do with more and finer grits, the better it will look.
intothedawn
In all these cane tutorials, I see these HUGE fat canes. I know you are supposed to reduce it, but if you are only going to make a handful of beads, what do most of YOU do with the extra?? I'd hate to waste that much clay for just 10 beads.
As far as the extra clay from the canes, I use it as scrap for other projects so nothing is wasted. Say I'm making an incense burner and I want to use a certain pattern, I will take my scraps, make them into a ball and get it good an soft then slice the pieces off of the pattern I want to use and place it all over my scrap ball and shape the burner how ever I want. Or you can make a pendant with the same concept just smaller.
LaDeDaCreations
Sometimes I keep the cane for later, I might decide to make something with it later. Other times I smoosh it up and make swirly cabochons or beads. Sometimes I smoosh it up and use it for bead centres.. with different canes over the top.
Haffina
You can use the huge canes for all kinds of things: beads, slices, pattern sheets, resin embeds, cool color mixes, etc... I keep them around in ziploc bags so that when I can find a use for it I can just warm it up with my hands to condition it a little and then slice. There are many ways to revive an old cane, but I don't keep canes long enough for me to find out how long they last.
gamekitty
Make more beads :o). really I just keep the extra and use it on other projects or combine them to make other more complex canes. Canes are addicting. No clay is ever wasted you can always find ways to use it, I have a covered dish os scrap that I use for bead guts and the inside of sculpts.
Gingerbells
huge fat canes....my favorite :) I am a cane maker. I make huge canes. I reduce them and cut them into 2" long sections and sell them. Sometimes I use my canes on pieces, but most of the time they are to be sold.
Dragonsglass
The perfect solution to lots of extra canes-- SELL THEM! There are many PC artists that simply make and sell raw canes to people who want to make their own beads for jewelry designs, but aren't interested in making canes. Do a little online research to find out what size cane is going for what kind of price, and put 'em in your store for sale!
intothedawn
This is one of my very favorite things about this medium there is virtually no waste. This makes practicing new things very economical.
ColtPixy
For the jewelry makers...where do you get your necklace bails?
I normally make my bails with wire, dont really like most of the bails you can buy. If I'm making a pendant in polymer clay I will sometimes make a loop with a piece of wire and embed it in the pendant before I bake it.
Haffina
You can find them on ebay under aanraku bails. They have a flat back where you can apply glue on there if you do not want to pierce a hole in the clay before baking. If you do pierce the clay before baking you can find bails everywhere: type in pendent bails on google or ebay and you will find tons of sources and styles.
gamekitty
There are great supply sellers on Artfire, I also like online shops like Artbeads.com
Gingerbells
I make most of mine with wire of aluminum flashing. However, there are many places on the internet you can get them. Rings n Things has them, Fire Mountain gems has them and so on. Google jewelry bails.
Dragonsglass
I often like to use clay to make bails for my pendants (or make it part of my pendant) like this necklace:
Other favorite techniques include using eyepins (available at any craft store) or creating large holes in pendants so I can string them on cords like this:
intothedawn
All of the above and I have even used an eye pin wrapped in fine wire to give it tooth for the clay to hold onto.
ColtPixy
where can I get a clay gun? I saw a tutorial I want to try, and think I may need one.
I got my gun at Hobby Lobby.
LaDeDaCreations
There are various types of clay guns. Kemper and sculpey make the basic ones but they are the hardest to use. Makins have one with a hand crank which I thought is clever. My personal favorite is a clay gun that looks like a garlic press! However, I recommend a kemper one you can get the adapter that makes it squirt clay out like a caulking gun. You can find them easier on ebay or google. I never had much luck with craft stores to find the right thing.
gamekitty
I love the Makins brand clay extruder, I got mine online from polymerclayexpress.com
Gingerbells
The one I recommend is the Makins professional with the twist for pushing the clay. They can be found online in many stores like polymer clay express, clay alley, ebay and so on
Dragonsglass
The Makin's Clay Extruder is available at Hobby Lobby and online.
intothedawn
Why is this stuff so dang addicting??? I messed with clay for HOURS last night, and lost track of the time!!
For me, clay is addicting because I can smash it, beat it with a rolling pin, poke holes in it, then stick it in the oven and not have to do all those things to my husband! LOL!
LaDeDaCreations
Because its fun..
Haffina
It is addictive to me because it is squishy and you can do all kinds of different things with them. Plus it is fun to be a kid and mess around with clay and you can bake it to save it.
gamekitty
yup that happens, I have lost many hours of sleep thinking of all the cool things that can be done with it. Give in Resistance is futile........
Gingerbells
Better to be addicted to clay then drugs in my book :D Enjoy the addiction for there are NO 12 step programs for us :)
Dragonsglass
Because there's never a dull moment with clay! There's so much you can do with it, you never run out of fun new ideas to try.
intothedawn
For me it is addicting because it is never boring. The things that can be done with it seem limitless. My first love with polymer clay was sculpting then I became entranced with mica shift and mokume gane. Now I find myself attracted to textures. Never boring at all.
ColtPixy
Can I use polymer clay over an aluminum cuff bracelet or will the clay crack? How thick would it need to be if I could and can the clay be worn next to the skin?
You can I have done it before with nice results.
The bracelet will not be flexible so make sure it fits before you cover it.
I use #2 thickness on my Atlas PM.
I have never had a problem wearing the clay next to my skin.
Cuffs are nice but I prefer to make and wear bangles. They are a more sturdy wearable bracelet.
Gingerbells
i know the clay can be worn on the skin. but if you have air pockets it will crack.
KellysClayCreations
I have never used the aluminum cuffs before but yes you can wear polymer clay next to your skin.
LaDeDaCreations
You can use an aluminum cuff but you will need to use a strong clay that is not brittle after baking. Cover the cuff armature with a thin coat Sobo or similar PVA glue and let it dry. This will give the cuff a bit of tooth for the clay to hold onto. Polymer clay is fine to be worn next to the skin.
ColtPixy
Introducing 2goodclaymates
What got you interested in polymer clay as a medium?
I was making jewelry as a hobby and they were offering a class at a local bead show on how to make your own polymer clay beads. I learned how to make some millefiori canes and some round beads and was asked if I wanted to join a local guild that was just starting up. When I found out after all the many more things you could create with this clay, I was hooked!
What inspires you to create?
That is hard to nail down exactly but I would say colors mainly -- when I see something in colors I'm drawn to I start imagining. Also anything I see in a magazine or while I'm shopping or anything around me.
Do you have a favorite technique?
I like doing all sorts of techniques -- that is maybe why I use them all in my work and don't usually stick to one or a few. I would say millefiori or creating with canes is my favorite.
Of everything you have created which is your favorite?
hmmm. that is hard to answer as I have a lot of favorites. I guess I would say the Kite Bead Necklace done in a mica shift skinner blend.
What do you prefer to make out of polymer clay and why?
I love making beads the most. I don't like to use a bead roller but prefer to make them all in my hands as I find it very relaxing working the pieces of clay in my hands and fingers and creating various shapes and color blends.
How do you decide what to make?
I never thought of that before. I will usually have a plan -- like a special order I have to fill or maybe a switchplate cover for our house. I have a list of things I want to do and eventually they get checked off with more added all the time. I also have a huge mental list of all the techniques I want to try and new design ideas. When I walk into my studio, however, some of that changes. I will look at some unfinished projects on my table and some clay colors, etc. and will just dive in. Sometimes I end up getting sidetracked and making something totally different than what I was planning on making in the first place.
Is there something you wish you could make in clay that you have not yet?
Yes -- some larger items like large decorative bowls, etc. We just built our own fireplace mantel in our home and it has a space with lights for a focal point. I'm planning on creating some piece to sit in that spot but will take me awhile to decide exactly what I want to make.
What makes polymer clay a better fit for your products than other mediums?
I like the versatility of polymer clay. You can make it smooth or textured, shiny or matte finish, colorful or more subdued. You can shape it in so many ways and sculpt with it. I love how it fits in with other materials like glass or metal beads.
What is your best advice for someone starting out in polymer clay?
Join a polymer clay group or local guild of some kind. That was the best thing I did by learning the simplest things and getting advice from others who are more experienced. You have so many questions when starting out and it just makes it more enjoyable when you have others around you that you can share with.
Friday, May 15, 2009
So you want to be a Polymer Clayer? by Jennifer Mercer aka HaffinaCreations
We would like to thank HaffinaCreations.artfire.com for the following article.
So you’ve made the decision to make items out of Polymer Clay? Where do you go now? And what do you need?
Obviously you need Polymer Clay. This presents you with a multitude of options. What type do you choose? Kato? Sculpey Premo? Sculpey III? Fimo? Fimo Soft? There are heaps of choices, and different reasons for choosing different ones. To start with you need to know what you are intending to make with the clay. Sculpture pieces generally require a firmer clay to allow for finer details. Some clays are softer and easier to condition, but may not be suitable for some uses. Some brands also have a greater colour range. It may be best to try a few different brands out to see what you feel suits you the best.
Once you have chosen your clay you need to consider tools. Any tools you use you need to label them as ‘clay only’. A lot of Polymer Clay tools could double as kitchen gadgets, you don’t want them to get mixed up. A great investment is a pasta machine. It need not cost a lot, unless you want one with a motor. It will make some things a lot easier and more successful, such as Skinner Blends, or Mica Shift Technique. You will also need something to cut the clay with. A tissue blade is an excellent and fairly inexpensive choice, particularly if you are making and slicing canes. You will also need a smooth surface to work on, something that clay will not stick to, and preferably something that will not dull your cutting tools. Some other things to consider are rollers, bead pins, texture plates, stamps, shape cutters, moulds, varnish, mica powders and liquid Polymer Clay. You may not need any of them, depending on what you are making, but they are useful and expand the possibilities available to you.
Next you need to consider how you are going to cure the clay. Some use their kitchen oven, but it is generally not recommended if you are intending to cook food in it too. Some people use toaster ovens, and they are a good, relatively inexpensive option. You should invest in an oven thermometer to check the temperature. Toaster ovens can be prone to ‘spiking’ (having peaks of temperature above what you set it at), which can result in the clay burning and ruining all your hard work. Ideally you would want a proper, dedicated oven, however this is expensive and impractical for most.
Now you have made your items, and cured them, what next? Finishing. How you finish them will again depend on what you are making and also on how you want them to look. If the piece is very textured or sculptured you may chose to varnish it, giving it a lovely shiny finish. The item may well need sanding before varnishing to give the best finish. If the item is smooth you may choose to sand it and buff it. You can get a fabulous high gloss finish doing this, as long as you sand it very well with several grades of wet/dry sandpaper, such as 400, 800, 1200 and 2000. Buffing can be done with old, soft denim, or there are various muslin type heads available for use with a Dremel or similar. Some Polymer Clayers use a bench mounted finisher with a big, fluffy had. You can also choose to leave the clay unfinished, which can look great, especially if extra care has been taken to ensure there are no fingerprints or fingernail marks present before curing.
There are many, many choices available, with a multitude of exciting possibilities. There is a lot of information available to help out the beginner Polymer Clayer. You could start at your local library, or explore the myriad of tutorials available online. There are also magazines dedicated to Polymer Clay, as well as many books by talented Artisans who share their knowledge openly. My best advice to those interested in learning about Polymer Clay is to go for it, get some clay, experiment, and most of all, have fun.
This article was written by Jennifer Mercer aka HaffinaCreations
Introducing SassyClayCreations
What got you interested in polymer clay as a medium?
How easy it was to use and being able to bake in a regular oven.
What inspires you to create?
Colors. Talking with other people who have ideas about what they wish they could find.
Do you have a favorite technique?
Not yet.
Of everything you have created which is your favorite?
A mirror I feature on my blog: http://sassyclaycreations.blogspot.com I began working with various colors, shapes and techniques.
What do you prefer to make out of polymer clay and why?
I would prefer to make items to show around the home. Bowls, wall art, things of that nature.
How do you decide what to make?
Sometimes an idea will pop into my head when I first wake in the morning. Sometimes I see a picture on the internet and get an idea for something else. My partner, Dean may make a suggestion for something he would like to see.
Is there something you wish you could make in clay that you have not yet?
Oh yes. I wish I could make free standing boxes. I keep trying but so far, not much luck.
What makes polymer clay a better fit for your products than other mediums?
The ease of use, the colors and availability of product. Plus it helps keep my arthritis in check.
What is your best advice for someone starting out in polymer clay?
Don't get discouraged and if you have difficulty with something, there are plenty of people willing to help you. Just ask.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Ask a Smoosher
Got a polymer clay question? Just click "smooshing thoughts" below and put your question(s) in a reply to this post. Various artists will answer your questions and we will post them here on the blog in a few days.
Please ask your questions by Friday, May 15th at midnight Central US/Mexico time.
Please ask your questions by Friday, May 15th at midnight Central US/Mexico time.
Introducing ClayItAgain
What got you interested in polymer clay as a medium?
One Christmas I ran out of wooden beads for some angels I was making. When I asked my normally very generous stepson if I could have some of his modeling clay to finish my project, he told me NO. I was shocked! So I sent hubby and son to the store for wooden beads. Hubby came home with the wooden beads, but son had picked out a sampler package of polymer clay. The clay sat on the shelf until I saw Donna Kato on the Carol Duvall Show. And the rest, as they say, is history....I blame my stepson for polymer addiction...LOL
What inspires you to create?
I am always on the lookout-whether it is for things to cover, bright colors, nature, different cultures, a certain look on a person's face, miniature things....I especially love to look at other artists work (in any medium); that's always a good source of inspiration too. I can be inspired by pretty much anything at any given moment. Finding the time to follow through and actually finish creations has been the challenge lately. Currently, I have more than half-dozen projects in my studio waiting to be finished.
Do you have a favorite technique?
I think my favorite technique is the way I make hands using an armature. They are my favorite part of the body to make on an art doll.
Of everything you have created which is your favorite?
I don't think I have a favorite, but I do have a most unusual. I re-tiled part of my shower and made a ledge with polymer clay tiles mixed in with real tiles. People cannot tell the difference between the real and the polymer tiles and are amazed at how they match.
What do you prefer to make out of polymer clay and why?
I think I like making the art dolls the best; I never know what the character is going to look like or what it wants to be doing, when I begin...and they never turn out to be, what I started them to be.
How do you decide what to make?
Usually I work on whatever strikes my fancy the moment I sit at my clay station.
Is there something you wish you could make in clay that you have not yet?
I have soooo many ideas in my head (and in my idea basket) for things to make that I wonder if I'll live enough years to create them all!
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
You had questions, we have answers
We recieved lots of great questions to last week's "Ask a Smoosher" and have split up the answers into several posts.
UBK asks the following questions:
I have some pretty seed beads, not sure if they are glass or plastic, but they are teeny, and long story short, is it ok to push them into the clay before baking and bake like usual?
For the seed beads, I have used all kinds in my clay and baked them and they did just fine.
LaDeDaCreations
I've not tried seedbeads, but I have used flatback Swarovski crystals..they were fine.
HaffinaCreations
I suppose it is a preference but if the beads are plastic I would avoid putting the plastic ones in the oven, simply because I had a bad experience of them melting on me if it is the really cheap ones from China. However, some of the members used it with no problems so I think it depends on the bead. If in doubt, just put some beads in some scrap clay and bake it to see if they melt. If they don't melt in the oven then they pass the test and you use it for your artwork.
gamekitty
If they are glass they'll be fine, test one of them before hand and you'll know if they'll take the heat.
Gingerbells
My suggestion is take a few and push them into some scrap clay and bake. if they melt you know they can't be baked. However, that doesn't mean you can't use them. You can push them into the raw clay and then pop them out before baking, then put them back in the baked piece using super glue.
Dragonsglass
If you're not sure whether the beads are plastic or glass, I would do a test bake with a some of them before you add them to your pieces to make sure they won't melt. Also, sometimes beads that are just pushed into the clay will pop out later, so its a good idea to adhere them with liquid clay or wire them in, if possible. Or pop them out after baking and glue them in tight again.
intothedawn
I have had mixed experience with plastic beads. Some melted and some did not. Some plastic pearls had a really cool look after melting but it was not what I was going for. Always test on a piece of scrap clay.
ColtPixy
I've seen things in tutorials that say you can paint the clay with acrylic paint...is this before, or after, or "pick one"?
Yes you can paint on the clay with acrylics and I do it after the clay is baked. You'll also want to glaze the clay after you paint it so the paint doesn't scratch off.
LaDeDaCreations
You can do it either before or after. Personally I prefer before because then the paint bakes into the clay and it won't smear after it is baked. You can paint it afterwards too but I find that the paint smears and you have to seal it to make it smearproof. Seal it after the paint dries.
gamekitty
You can use it on raw clay OR baked clay. it all depends on the look you are going after. I use it on textured items both raw and baked.
Dragonsglass
If you're wanting to add a patina to your piece you will want to paint with acrylic paints after you bake and be sure to varnish to protect the paint. If you're using acrylic paint as part of a faux technique (such as faux turquoise) or for a layer in mokume gane, you would paint the raw clay.
intothedawn
I have used acrylic washes on sculptures that have already been baked. On sculptures I am looking for a matte finish so after the acrylic wash dries I cover it with a thin coat of liquid clay and rebake.
ColtPixy
Seriously, how do you get the translucent to BE translucent and not look like fish scales? (Never had much luck with it in the past, but want to try it again)
The translucent always turns out kind of milky looking and not actually clear. So I'm not sure if there's a trick to that or not.
LaDeDaCreations
I have heard that one way to get it 'clearer' is to drop it in ice water straight out of the oven. I havent tried it yet, so I dont know if it works. I've also heard that 'Sculpey Premo Frost' ends up the 'clearest', but that none end up looking like glass or anything.
HaffinaCreations
1) You can tent your work with foil. That does not always work though.
2) Bury your work in corn starch before baking and then sand it afterwards (never tried it; heard it from Cindy Lietz)
3) Bleach your work by soaking it in bleach until it becomes more clear (never tried that either)
4) Use a different brand of poly clay (people have good things to say about Kato translucent or frost premo; never tried it either)
5) Glaze your work after you are done.
6) If you are embedding it in resin, you don't have to bake it. Just pour a layer of resin on the mold you are using. Wait for the resin to cure completely. Then put your unfinished clay work in the mold and pour another layer of resin until it covers it, and wait for it to cure. The clay is then "sandwiched" between the resin and it has a cool effect.
gamekitty
It is never truly translucent. The best way to make it appear so is to use very very thin slices, bake it in a covered pan at the right temp, put item directly in ice bath and sand the heck out of it
Gingerbells
Translucent clay: the trick is practice. The translucent has to be super super thin to not leave the "fish scale" look. When slicing a cane it has to be almost tissue paper thin for you to almost eliminate the shadow. You can also trim away the translucent from the slice to help out. the rest is sanding sanding and some more sanding.
Dragonsglass
Translucent clay is tricky to work with. Some of the "scales" may be little pockets of air trapped, so be careful when conditioning clay so that no air gets trapped. Also, be sure that translucent clay gets conditioned enough. I find that if I don't condition the clay long enough, I tend to see little scaly looking spots. For translucent pieces to really look their best, sanding is the key. Sand with at least 4 different grits (400 to 1000) of wet/dry sandpaper to bring out the translucent layers in your pieces. The more sanding you do with more and finer grits, the better it will look.
intothedawn
UBK asks the following questions:
I have some pretty seed beads, not sure if they are glass or plastic, but they are teeny, and long story short, is it ok to push them into the clay before baking and bake like usual?
For the seed beads, I have used all kinds in my clay and baked them and they did just fine.
LaDeDaCreations
I've not tried seedbeads, but I have used flatback Swarovski crystals..they were fine.
HaffinaCreations
I suppose it is a preference but if the beads are plastic I would avoid putting the plastic ones in the oven, simply because I had a bad experience of them melting on me if it is the really cheap ones from China. However, some of the members used it with no problems so I think it depends on the bead. If in doubt, just put some beads in some scrap clay and bake it to see if they melt. If they don't melt in the oven then they pass the test and you use it for your artwork.
gamekitty
If they are glass they'll be fine, test one of them before hand and you'll know if they'll take the heat.
Gingerbells
My suggestion is take a few and push them into some scrap clay and bake. if they melt you know they can't be baked. However, that doesn't mean you can't use them. You can push them into the raw clay and then pop them out before baking, then put them back in the baked piece using super glue.
Dragonsglass
If you're not sure whether the beads are plastic or glass, I would do a test bake with a some of them before you add them to your pieces to make sure they won't melt. Also, sometimes beads that are just pushed into the clay will pop out later, so its a good idea to adhere them with liquid clay or wire them in, if possible. Or pop them out after baking and glue them in tight again.
intothedawn
I have had mixed experience with plastic beads. Some melted and some did not. Some plastic pearls had a really cool look after melting but it was not what I was going for. Always test on a piece of scrap clay.
ColtPixy
I've seen things in tutorials that say you can paint the clay with acrylic paint...is this before, or after, or "pick one"?
Yes you can paint on the clay with acrylics and I do it after the clay is baked. You'll also want to glaze the clay after you paint it so the paint doesn't scratch off.
LaDeDaCreations
You can do it either before or after. Personally I prefer before because then the paint bakes into the clay and it won't smear after it is baked. You can paint it afterwards too but I find that the paint smears and you have to seal it to make it smearproof. Seal it after the paint dries.
gamekitty
You can use it on raw clay OR baked clay. it all depends on the look you are going after. I use it on textured items both raw and baked.
Dragonsglass
If you're wanting to add a patina to your piece you will want to paint with acrylic paints after you bake and be sure to varnish to protect the paint. If you're using acrylic paint as part of a faux technique (such as faux turquoise) or for a layer in mokume gane, you would paint the raw clay.
intothedawn
I have used acrylic washes on sculptures that have already been baked. On sculptures I am looking for a matte finish so after the acrylic wash dries I cover it with a thin coat of liquid clay and rebake.
ColtPixy
Seriously, how do you get the translucent to BE translucent and not look like fish scales? (Never had much luck with it in the past, but want to try it again)
The translucent always turns out kind of milky looking and not actually clear. So I'm not sure if there's a trick to that or not.
LaDeDaCreations
I have heard that one way to get it 'clearer' is to drop it in ice water straight out of the oven. I havent tried it yet, so I dont know if it works. I've also heard that 'Sculpey Premo Frost' ends up the 'clearest', but that none end up looking like glass or anything.
HaffinaCreations
1) You can tent your work with foil. That does not always work though.
2) Bury your work in corn starch before baking and then sand it afterwards (never tried it; heard it from Cindy Lietz)
3) Bleach your work by soaking it in bleach until it becomes more clear (never tried that either)
4) Use a different brand of poly clay (people have good things to say about Kato translucent or frost premo; never tried it either)
5) Glaze your work after you are done.
6) If you are embedding it in resin, you don't have to bake it. Just pour a layer of resin on the mold you are using. Wait for the resin to cure completely. Then put your unfinished clay work in the mold and pour another layer of resin until it covers it, and wait for it to cure. The clay is then "sandwiched" between the resin and it has a cool effect.
gamekitty
It is never truly translucent. The best way to make it appear so is to use very very thin slices, bake it in a covered pan at the right temp, put item directly in ice bath and sand the heck out of it
Gingerbells
Translucent clay: the trick is practice. The translucent has to be super super thin to not leave the "fish scale" look. When slicing a cane it has to be almost tissue paper thin for you to almost eliminate the shadow. You can also trim away the translucent from the slice to help out. the rest is sanding sanding and some more sanding.
Dragonsglass
Translucent clay is tricky to work with. Some of the "scales" may be little pockets of air trapped, so be careful when conditioning clay so that no air gets trapped. Also, be sure that translucent clay gets conditioned enough. I find that if I don't condition the clay long enough, I tend to see little scaly looking spots. For translucent pieces to really look their best, sanding is the key. Sand with at least 4 different grits (400 to 1000) of wet/dry sandpaper to bring out the translucent layers in your pieces. The more sanding you do with more and finer grits, the better it will look.
intothedawn
Tool Drool
Here are a few of my favorite sculpting tools. None of which are technically polymer clay tools.
On the left are six wax carving tools. Looking at the photo when I bought them I thought I would never use the one on the right. I was wrong it is the one tool I use the most.
Next with the black handles are silicon tipped paint pushers.
The next 3 are knitting needles that have been cut down to a more managable size for sculpting. Then there are 3 ball point stylus'. The last a crochet hook.
What are some of your favorite polymer clay tools that are not tecnically made for use with polymer clay?
On the left are six wax carving tools. Looking at the photo when I bought them I thought I would never use the one on the right. I was wrong it is the one tool I use the most.
Next with the black handles are silicon tipped paint pushers.
The next 3 are knitting needles that have been cut down to a more managable size for sculpting. Then there are 3 ball point stylus'. The last a crochet hook.
What are some of your favorite polymer clay tools that are not tecnically made for use with polymer clay?
Monday, May 11, 2009
MANIC MONDAY: Organizing Your Clay by intothedawn
MANIC MONDAY: Organizing Your Clay
By IntotheDawn
So you’re addicted to polymer clay? Don’t worry, it happens. We know.
But you’ve got packages of it everywhere, new colors you haven’t opened yet, packages that are half used, balls of special colors you’ve mixed and have left over. Those towering stacks of unopened packages are threatening to tumble everywhere, and you don’t want to leave all that opened clay lying about collecting dust and random hairs from around the house. What’s a clayer to do?
Organize with one (or two…) of these three-drawer storage bins! These are made by Sterilite and you can find them (or something similar) at most discount stores in their storage organization area. Sometimes craft stores will carry them too.They are the perfect size for keeping your polymer clay in order. They’re lightweight and fit nicely on a bookshelf, too.
Pull open the bottom drawer and organize all your unopened packages there. I put the new packages in the bottom drawer because they’re heaviest and the bottom drawer has the most support. There’s enough room that they can stand on end so you can see how many packages you’ve got of specific colors. If you’re obsessive like me, you can even line the colors up in ROY G. BIV (color spectrum) order.
Those opened packages can be placed inside snack-size baggies-- save the package wrapper, so you know what color the leftovers are. Remnants of special color mixes can go in snack baggies, too. I organize my leftovers by color group, so I know exactly what I’ve got to work with when I pull out my remnants. That way I don’t go opening another package or mixing another color by accident.
The more clay you have, the more drawers you use. I have a different brand of clay in my top drawer vs. the bottom two. That way I don’t mix incompatible brands. But if you have LOTS of clay, you could organize your drawers by color groups or whatever other way works best for your needs.
How do YOU organize YOUR clay?
By IntotheDawn
So you’re addicted to polymer clay? Don’t worry, it happens. We know.
But you’ve got packages of it everywhere, new colors you haven’t opened yet, packages that are half used, balls of special colors you’ve mixed and have left over. Those towering stacks of unopened packages are threatening to tumble everywhere, and you don’t want to leave all that opened clay lying about collecting dust and random hairs from around the house. What’s a clayer to do?
Organize with one (or two…) of these three-drawer storage bins! These are made by Sterilite and you can find them (or something similar) at most discount stores in their storage organization area. Sometimes craft stores will carry them too.They are the perfect size for keeping your polymer clay in order. They’re lightweight and fit nicely on a bookshelf, too.
Pull open the bottom drawer and organize all your unopened packages there. I put the new packages in the bottom drawer because they’re heaviest and the bottom drawer has the most support. There’s enough room that they can stand on end so you can see how many packages you’ve got of specific colors. If you’re obsessive like me, you can even line the colors up in ROY G. BIV (color spectrum) order.
Those opened packages can be placed inside snack-size baggies-- save the package wrapper, so you know what color the leftovers are. Remnants of special color mixes can go in snack baggies, too. I organize my leftovers by color group, so I know exactly what I’ve got to work with when I pull out my remnants. That way I don’t go opening another package or mixing another color by accident.
The more clay you have, the more drawers you use. I have a different brand of clay in my top drawer vs. the bottom two. That way I don’t mix incompatible brands. But if you have LOTS of clay, you could organize your drawers by color groups or whatever other way works best for your needs.
How do YOU organize YOUR clay?
Sunday, May 10, 2009
You had questions, we have answers
We received lots of great questions to last week's "Ask a Smoosher" and are going to split up the answers into several posts here. So if you do not see yours, not to worry it is coming up.
Creative Cove Jewelry Designs asks:
Why do some use a shiney finish and some just leave it like a matte finish? preference or technique?
The choice to glaze or not to glaze for me depends on the pattern more than anything. The shiny glaze really brings out the colors in the clay, especially if the clay has mica or glitter in it. Glaze is also good for protecting the clay.
LaDeDaCreations
I prefer to have the shiny finish you get from sanding and buffing. And I'm just starting to get with the idea of varnishing some pieces. I dont really like the matte look..so I guess its preference.
HaffinaCreations
I think it really depends on the piece. Some pieces need a gloss finish and some need a matte finish. Some of my pieces have no finish.
gamekitty
Well really it's both some techniques require sealing like when using mica powders. Some people prefer a super shiny finish; myself I love the look of a well sanded and buffed piece. You can get a great shine that way it just takes more work.
Gingerbells
For finishing: it all depends on the item. Many of my pieces I like to leave matte for a more organic feeling.
Dragonsglass
I think its a matter of personal preference. I prefer a glossy or semi-gloss varnish finish for beads and pendants because A) shiny usually looks best for jewelry items and B) it adds protection to the pendant or bead, especially if I've used metallic powders or added a patina. For sculptural items I tend to leave the clay as is, or use a matte finish varnish for protection. I personally like a more natural finish for sculptural pieces.
intothedawn
For me it depends on what the piece is. Some things look better shiny and do not look finished until they are. Some pieces need the organic look of a more matte finish and look ruined with a shiny surface.
ColtPixy
UBK asks:
Ok, so as of last night, I have about half a table full of poly stuff ready to bake...
But I don't know for how LONG. I know the temp, but not how long.
One thingydeal is about 1/16th- 1/8th inch thick, some of my beads are 1/4 inch thick, the little coffee cup thing is more of a sculpture and is about 3/4 inch tall by about 1/2 across...Oh, and another pen. I can't remember how long I used to bake those, and refuse to confess to the number I burnt before I finally "got it right".
I bake most of my clay items for about 25- 30 min. I also use foil on my cookie sheet because it helps the clay not get so hot where it burns on the bottom. I have noticed with white and translucent I have to bake it for about 20 min. or it starts to discolor.
LaDeDaCreations
I bake most of mine for about 20 minutes, 25 if they are larger, at about 130. Sometimes I turn it down closer to 120 and bake for a bit longer.
HaffinaCreations
Keep in mind Haffina uses Centigrade while UBK is in the U.S. and uses Fahrenheit
It really does not matter how long they bake in the oven, but if you have something that is 1/2" thick you probably should bake it extra long. It also depends on the clay you are using. I use premo sculpey which is 30 min for every 1/4". With that calculation you should bake the 1/2" thick pieces for 1 hour in the oven.
If your clay burns you probably have an oven that is too hot. You should get an oven thermometer just to make sure. You can get them pretty cheap and they make sure your oven temperature is correct.
gamekitty
As long as you are baking in a oven that maintains a constant temperature you really wont over cure it; this is a theory I have tested accidentally when I left some beads in the oven for over 4 hours. Fortunately for me my oven and thermometer run well with out spiking and I always bake in a covered pan. Under-baking is a problem because your items will be weak.
I always cure my items for no less them 30 minutes, beads usually go for about 45 minutes and sculpts I usually cure many times while making them and the final cure I usually go for about an hour.
In all these years I have never scorched or over cured an item and I believe it's because I have a good oven thermometer and took the time to calibrate my oven accordingly.
Gingerbells
For baking: I bake everything, no matter the thickness, at least one hour. Under baking time wise will make a piece brittle, over baking doesn't hurt it at all. I would rather be safe then sorry.
Dragonsglass
How long you bake depends on A) the brand of clay you use B) your oven temp quirks and C) thickness of your piece. I've found its essential to use an oven thermometer and get to know your oven temps, "hot spots" etc. Each clay brand should give the temp and amount of time to bake for a certain thickness. Because of the variety of thicknesses in your different pieces, you won't be able to bake them all in one batch. I like to use parchment paper to line my baking sheet to prevent "shiny spots" on the back of my pieces and to prevent browning. If baking translucent, pearl or white clays, I recommend lining your baking sheet with fireproof polyester fiberfill batting and covering your pieces with a double layer of wet paper towels for baking, to prevent browning/darkening of light colored clays. Some clay artists also recommend baking at 10* LESS than recommended, for the usual amount of time.
intothedawn
I also tend to bake longer than the time recommended by the manufacturer. Pieces that are under baked tend to have issues even months after cured. My better half calibrated my oven and I use a thermometer to make sure it never spikes during the curing process.
ColtPixy
Creative Cove Jewelry Designs asks:
Why do some use a shiney finish and some just leave it like a matte finish? preference or technique?
The choice to glaze or not to glaze for me depends on the pattern more than anything. The shiny glaze really brings out the colors in the clay, especially if the clay has mica or glitter in it. Glaze is also good for protecting the clay.
LaDeDaCreations
I prefer to have the shiny finish you get from sanding and buffing. And I'm just starting to get with the idea of varnishing some pieces. I dont really like the matte look..so I guess its preference.
HaffinaCreations
I think it really depends on the piece. Some pieces need a gloss finish and some need a matte finish. Some of my pieces have no finish.
gamekitty
Well really it's both some techniques require sealing like when using mica powders. Some people prefer a super shiny finish; myself I love the look of a well sanded and buffed piece. You can get a great shine that way it just takes more work.
Gingerbells
For finishing: it all depends on the item. Many of my pieces I like to leave matte for a more organic feeling.
Dragonsglass
I think its a matter of personal preference. I prefer a glossy or semi-gloss varnish finish for beads and pendants because A) shiny usually looks best for jewelry items and B) it adds protection to the pendant or bead, especially if I've used metallic powders or added a patina. For sculptural items I tend to leave the clay as is, or use a matte finish varnish for protection. I personally like a more natural finish for sculptural pieces.
intothedawn
For me it depends on what the piece is. Some things look better shiny and do not look finished until they are. Some pieces need the organic look of a more matte finish and look ruined with a shiny surface.
ColtPixy
UBK asks:
Ok, so as of last night, I have about half a table full of poly stuff ready to bake...
But I don't know for how LONG. I know the temp, but not how long.
One thingydeal is about 1/16th- 1/8th inch thick, some of my beads are 1/4 inch thick, the little coffee cup thing is more of a sculpture and is about 3/4 inch tall by about 1/2 across...Oh, and another pen. I can't remember how long I used to bake those, and refuse to confess to the number I burnt before I finally "got it right".
I bake most of my clay items for about 25- 30 min. I also use foil on my cookie sheet because it helps the clay not get so hot where it burns on the bottom. I have noticed with white and translucent I have to bake it for about 20 min. or it starts to discolor.
LaDeDaCreations
I bake most of mine for about 20 minutes, 25 if they are larger, at about 130. Sometimes I turn it down closer to 120 and bake for a bit longer.
HaffinaCreations
Keep in mind Haffina uses Centigrade while UBK is in the U.S. and uses Fahrenheit
It really does not matter how long they bake in the oven, but if you have something that is 1/2" thick you probably should bake it extra long. It also depends on the clay you are using. I use premo sculpey which is 30 min for every 1/4". With that calculation you should bake the 1/2" thick pieces for 1 hour in the oven.
If your clay burns you probably have an oven that is too hot. You should get an oven thermometer just to make sure. You can get them pretty cheap and they make sure your oven temperature is correct.
gamekitty
As long as you are baking in a oven that maintains a constant temperature you really wont over cure it; this is a theory I have tested accidentally when I left some beads in the oven for over 4 hours. Fortunately for me my oven and thermometer run well with out spiking and I always bake in a covered pan. Under-baking is a problem because your items will be weak.
I always cure my items for no less them 30 minutes, beads usually go for about 45 minutes and sculpts I usually cure many times while making them and the final cure I usually go for about an hour.
In all these years I have never scorched or over cured an item and I believe it's because I have a good oven thermometer and took the time to calibrate my oven accordingly.
Gingerbells
For baking: I bake everything, no matter the thickness, at least one hour. Under baking time wise will make a piece brittle, over baking doesn't hurt it at all. I would rather be safe then sorry.
Dragonsglass
How long you bake depends on A) the brand of clay you use B) your oven temp quirks and C) thickness of your piece. I've found its essential to use an oven thermometer and get to know your oven temps, "hot spots" etc. Each clay brand should give the temp and amount of time to bake for a certain thickness. Because of the variety of thicknesses in your different pieces, you won't be able to bake them all in one batch. I like to use parchment paper to line my baking sheet to prevent "shiny spots" on the back of my pieces and to prevent browning. If baking translucent, pearl or white clays, I recommend lining your baking sheet with fireproof polyester fiberfill batting and covering your pieces with a double layer of wet paper towels for baking, to prevent browning/darkening of light colored clays. Some clay artists also recommend baking at 10* LESS than recommended, for the usual amount of time.
intothedawn
I also tend to bake longer than the time recommended by the manufacturer. Pieces that are under baked tend to have issues even months after cured. My better half calibrated my oven and I use a thermometer to make sure it never spikes during the curing process.
ColtPixy
Saturday, May 9, 2009
Happy Mother's Day!
Polymer Clay Smooshers Guild
Originally uploaded by coltpixy
We hope you have a wonderful day filled with laughter and love.
Smooshing Technique
My favorite thing to do with polymer clay is actually sculpting. However, I started experimenting with different techniques an am totally addicted to mica shift.
Mica shift leaves the illusion of a 3 dimensional piece when it is actually flat and smooth like glass.
I have a mica shift mini tutorial on my blog here. I have been experimenting a lot trying to see just how many colors I can get to work and so far it seems any color can be achieved. Give it a try and welcome to my obsession.
♥ ColtPixy
Mica shift leaves the illusion of a 3 dimensional piece when it is actually flat and smooth like glass.
I have a mica shift mini tutorial on my blog here. I have been experimenting a lot trying to see just how many colors I can get to work and so far it seems any color can be achieved. Give it a try and welcome to my obsession.
♥ ColtPixy
Friday, May 8, 2009
Introducing ColtPixy
What got you interested in polymer clay as a medium?
I had sculpted with polymer clay years ago and liked working with it. Later a tendon injury and doctor's recommendation that I change mediums from mosaics to clay lead me right back to polymer clay.
What inspires you to create?
For as long as I can remember I have felt an urge to create things. I am constantly sketching ideas. Everything inspires me from things I see in nature, to a comment made to me in conversation.
Do you have a favorite technique?
I am currently obsessed with mica shift.
Of everything you have created which is your favorite?
This trinket box is my favorite. The mushroom glows in the dark. It is entirely polymer clay except for his wool hair that I dyed green and the red ribbon. The mushroom cap lifts off and the stem is the trinket box.
What do you prefer to make out of polymer clay and why?
That is a hard question because I love that virtually anything can be made with polymer clay. There is not as much waste as with other mediums because until it has been baked you can smoosh it up and start over again. Making it very cost effective to practice.
How do you decide what to make?
Ever have a song that just will not stop playing in you mind? That happens to me with the things I make. An idea keeps recurring in my mind and I feel compelled to make it.
Is there something you wish you could make in clay that you have not yet?
Yes, canes. I have not tried making those yet and I am fascinated by them.
What makes polymer clay a better fit for your products than other mediums?
The fact that it does not matter if I want to make something 3 dimensional or 2 dimensional it can be done with one medium, polymer clay.
What is your best advice for someone starting out in polymer clay?
To play with it and have fun.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Tool Drool
I belong to a not so secret society of women who are addicted to tools. It does not even have to be used for its intended purpose. For example, one of my favorite sculpting tools is a knitting needle. Another favorite is a tapestry needle to which I attached a polymer clay handle. It is great for tiny miniatures.
This is one of gamekitty's tools. It is made for polymer clay and it looks so cool! Kinda like a fancy garlic press (you can use those too by the way just don't use it for food afterwards).
Don't know about you but I would love to get my hands on one of those.
What are some of your favorite tools to use with polymer clay? Click "Smooshing Thoughts" and tell us about yours.
This is one of gamekitty's tools. It is made for polymer clay and it looks so cool! Kinda like a fancy garlic press (you can use those too by the way just don't use it for food afterwards).
Don't know about you but I would love to get my hands on one of those.
What are some of your favorite tools to use with polymer clay? Click "Smooshing Thoughts" and tell us about yours.
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Introducing intothedawn
A creative spirit and self-taught multi-media artist inspired by color, texture, fantasy, mythology and different cultures and spiritual paths from around the world, as well as by the greatest inspiration of all-- Mother Nature.
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What got you interested in polymer clay as a medium?
I've been fascinated with clay ever since elementary school art classes. When I heard about polymer clay-- clay that came in COLORS that I could bake AT HOME, I had to try it. I was immediately hooked..
What inspires you to create?
New colors or techniques I want to try, new tools to experiment with... but most of all, nature inspires me, especially when the seasons change. That always seems to spark all sorts of new ideas for me.
Do you have a favorite technique?
I love polymer clay and I love rubber stamping and my favorite technique is to make creations that combine clay with stamping.
Of everything you have created which is your favorite?
I really love this egg-shaped Goddess covered with climbing roses that I created. I have ideas for a whole series of egg-shaped Goddesses.
What do you prefer to make out of polymer clay and why?
I prefer to create pendants because I can explore so many different polymer clay styles and techniques. The list of design possibilities is really endless!
How do you decide what to make?
It depends on what's currently inspiring me. I really go with whatever ideas have peaked my interest and enthusiasm at the time.
Is there something you wish you could make in clay that you have not yet?
There are so many things I want to make! I'd really like to learn more about canework and play with that. I've only ever made one cane, so I have lots to learn in that area
What makes polymer clay a better fit for your products than other mediums?
I like to focus on color and texture and polymer clay is perfect for that. It comes in so many colors, plus you can mix colors to create a whole new color palette. And you can add color with paint, mica powders, inks and chalks. Poly clay can be stamped, molded, sculpted and extruded to create all sorts of textures, as well.
What is your best advice for someone starting out in polymer clay?
Have fun with it! There really is no right or wrong, so don't limit yourself-- explore, experiment, play and create-- and enjoy the process!
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Ask a Smoosher
We are going to try something different now.
Got a polymer clay question? Just click "smooshing thoughts" below and put your question(s) in a reply to this post. Various artists will answer your questions and we will post them here in a few days.
Please ask your questions by Wednesday, May 6th at midnight Central US/Mexico time.
Questions are now closed. Look for your answers on next Tuesday's "Ask a Smoosher".
Got a polymer clay question? Just click "smooshing thoughts" below and put your question(s) in a reply to this post. Various artists will answer your questions and we will post them here in a few days.
Please ask your questions by Wednesday, May 6th at midnight Central US/Mexico time.
Questions are now closed. Look for your answers on next Tuesday's "Ask a Smoosher".
Monday, May 4, 2009
Introducing Gingerbells
Polymer clay is just one of the many mediums with which Gingerbells uses to create.
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What got you interested in polymer clay as a medium?
I have been a bead-aholic for as long as I can remember and I love to make jewelry.
About 5 years ago I was becoming frustrated trying to find interesting beads for my designs. I found many beautiful lampwork beads but they were way out of my budget. One day while looking on line for beads I came across some amazing beads made with polymer clay and I was hooked. I began researching and reading everything I could and the first time I picked up my first cube of clay I knew it was the thing for me. It has been my favorite medium ever since.
What inspires you to create?
I am most inspired by the creative process and color.
Do you have a favorite technique?
My favorite thing to do is sculpt flowers and make canes.
Of everything you have created which is your favorite?
This is a hand mirror I made a couple of years ago for my friends Mother in Law for a birthday gift. It is made with 2 tongue depressors a mirror and polymer clay. I didn't use any paint or finish on it.
I enjoyed making these tiny flip flops.
These are my favorite tile beads.
What do you prefer to make out of polymer clay and why?
I love to make things that are both pretty and functional. I like to make beads more then any thing. I also like to do little sculpts because I am not good at it and I like the challenge.
How do you decide what to make?
I make what ever has been keeping me awake thinking about it other then that I rarely have a plan when I start working; I just go where the clay takes me.
Is there something you wish you could make in clay that you have not yet?
I would love to make a sculpture of a person that doesn't look like a cartoon.
What makes polymer clay a better fit for your products than other mediums?
I love it because it can be used in so many ways that is only limited by my imagination and it is so easily incorporated into many of the other mediums I work in.
What is your best advice for someone starting out in polymer clay?
There's no right or wrong with polymer clay. It takes a lot of practice and really that's the most fun part so jump in and smoosh some clay and see what happens. Be careful it is addictive.
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Introducing LaDeDaCreations
LaDeDaCreations for items that are GROOVY, FUN, CRAZY, or just plain cute.
What got you interested in polymer clay as a medium?
For many years I've enjoyed making jewelry. About 12 years ago I found that I could make my own beads out of polymer clay and was so excited!.
What inspires you to create?
I don't have any one thing that inspires me. One day I may want to make beads, another day I may want to make incense burners. My creativity comes more from what mood I'm in than things that see. I do notice that different music will cause me to create different things.
Do you have a favorite technique?
This also changes with my mood. Maybe I am just moody! LOL!.
Of everything you have created which is your favorite?
This is a pic of a snow woman that I did. It was for my friend Kristi and I made the hair to look like her hair and she has a shirt like the one the snow woman has on and she has a bean bag like the one in this piece. The snow woman glows in the dark and the little table next to her is an incense burner.
What do you prefer to make out of polymer clay and why?
I really enjoy making incense burners because they are functional and you can use bigger pieces of your canes and the patterns shoe up really good. Plus you can make them any shape and size you want!
How do you decide what to make?
All depends on what mood I'm in. (Bet ya didn't see that one coming! LOL!)
Is there something you wish you could make in clay that you have not yet?
I would like to make all kinds of funky menorah's. I have seen many beautiful ones made out of all kinds of things and the possibilities would be endless!
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Introducing gamekitty
Gamekitty's miniatures are so realistic they will blow your mind away! Looking for a cane to DIY? She makes those too.
What got you interested in polymer clay as a medium?
I got interested in dolls and miniatures first. Then my dollies made me fall in love with making food and other accessories for them. It kind of evolved from there to making jewelry out of my mini foods and who knows... it will probably evolve again.
What inspires you to create?
Lots of things inspire me to create my work. I draw inspirations from cookbooks, online websites, nature, and of course, my husband's cooking. He is a bad influence because I would eat his food and then make a copy of it in mini.
Do you have a favorite technique?
I would have to say that my favorite technique is caning and clay texturing. I have not done any of the other techniques yet but I am learning every day and I am having a lot of fun learning.
Of everything you have created which is your favorite?
I think this cake is one of my favorites. It is a Truffle Cappuccino Cake. It looked like a piece of chocolate. I didn't get to keep it though. I traded it with an online friend..
What do you prefer to make out of polymer clay and why?
Personally I make whatever comes to my mind. I have many canes that I made and stowed away for that purpose.
How do you decide what to make?
It really depends. If I am not doing any orders for myself I would pick a color that I like or foods that I want to eat. Then I find pictures of it online and make it. If I get commissions a customer would just send me a picture of what they want me to make. I don't make the exact picture but it is close enough that they know that is what they wanted.
Is there something you wish you could make in clay that you have not yet?
Well I have been wanting to make more jewelry sets of different types. I am always collecting findings and chains so that when the ideas flow I have the items to make the jewelry that I wanted to make.
For more pictures and things, you can find them here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/gamekitty/
Friday, May 1, 2009
Shaded Leaf Cane Tutorial
tooAquarius makes beautiful canes with polymer clay. She shares with us her Shaded Leaf Cane Tutorial.
Check out her Art Fire studio for fabulous canes and finished beads tooAquarius.artfire.com
Thank you tooAquarius!
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