Impressive! Stamping and Molding Polymer Clay

AVOID A STICKY SITUATION

When you are using a mold or a stamp or texture sheet with polymer clay here's the thing you want to avoid: Bits of clay stuck in the crevices.

The more flexible your mold, the less chance of sticking. The less sticky your clay, the less chance of sticking. But generally speaking, don't risk it - play it safe and apply some sort of 'release agent' to the clay surface before stamping or molding.

Your choices include:
-a mist of water
-saliva
-Downy Wrinkle Releaser
-a dab with an embossing inkpad
-cornstarch, talc or Armor All are sometimes recommended but they can leave a residue that might affect the clay.
-You can ink your stamp using an inkpad if you want to apply color ... and help prevent the clay sticking.

If you want a metallic sheen you can brush mica powders like 'Pearl Ex' onto the clay before stamping or molding.

A SPECTACULAR FINISH

I'm here to tell ya, your textured or molded clay ain't finished when it comes out of the oven. Nine times out of ten you need to antique the piece to emphasize the high and low lights and give it the 'ta-dah!' effect. This involves applying an acrylic paint and quickly wiping it off again so some paint remains in the recesses.

Alternatively you can apply a metallic paint or rub-on (like Rub n' Buff) to the raised surfaces of a dark piece. If you've applied Pearl Ex before baking you already have a nice sheen happening.

You might want to seal the piece, particularly if it is wearable or will receive much handling. Not all sealers work well with polymer clay. Over time they may go sticky. I suggest you use one produced or recommended by a polymer clay manufacturer.

This is a five-lesson class suitable for crafters with little or no experience working with polymer clay.

Lessons are delivered in pdf format and supported with short videos on the lesson webpages.

Your first lesson is delivered as soon as you book-in, and you receive subsequent lessons every seven days (or more frequently, if you prefer).

Interested? Read more at the class description page.