CREATIVE CRAFTING

Archive for the ‘Polymer Clay-Expert’ Category

For individuals who like the thought of sculpting but have a problem dealing with traditional clay, polymer clay is a wonderful alternative. Polymer clay is not really earthen clay. It’s produced from Pvc material and it is only referred to as clay due to the texture-similar to modeling clay.

One thing which helps it be so exciting is the fact that it’s easily available in numerous vibrant colors. Metallic and iridescent colors are created with the addition of mica to the mixture. Children and grown ups equally find the clay simple and easy to work with.

The clay is cured by baking at lower temps, around 230 to 250 degrees. Once cured, it is actually hard and sturdy. Layers of uncured clay can be put onto the cured item and re-baked devoid of harm to the cured piece. It needs to be mentioned that curing the clay at too high of a temp can produce dangerous gases, but curing at the correct temperatures is only going to produce a slight odor. You can also find air dry variations of polymer clay.

Polymer clay was created during the early 1930s as being a toy maker’s reaction to having less plastic material accessible. However the substance failed to fit the aim and the formula was given to someone who used it to create Fimo. About the middle of the 1960s polymer clay shot to popularity amongst artists. Other brands, such as Sculpey and Modello, emerged as a result. Polymer clay is also known as “Sculpey” clay, even though Sculpey is actually a distinct brand name.

This Santa ornament will be lots of fun to make, and a treasured keepsake to enjoy year after year.

Crafting Time:
1 hour plus baking time

Skill Level:
1 being the easiest

* Glass Ornaments (box of 6)
* Sculpey III® Polymer Clay: Beige, Red, Black, White
* Acrylic Paint, Black
* Cookie Sheet, clay dedicated
* Paper, white (to place items on when baking)

* Roller, clay dedicated
* Toothpick
* Paintbrush
* Paper Towel or Soft Cloth
* Knife, clay dedicated

Cost of each project will vary depending on materials used.

Due to the seasonal nature of some merchandise, actual availability of some products pictured may vary.

Condition each color of clay by hand until pliable.

Roll out beige clay to ¼-inch thickness. Cut an oval piece to form the face area and press onto ornament.

Roll a small log of clay to form bridge of nose and place on center of face. Smooth edges into face. Add two small balls on each side of nose for nostrils. Smooth edges into nose and face. Use handle of paintbrush to create nostrils.

Mix a small amount of red clay into the beige clay to make cheek color. Roll a ball of clay and cut in half. Place on face for cheeks and press into face, smoothing down at the bottom edge.

Mix a little more red clay into the cheek mixture to make the mouth color. Roll a small snake of clay, form a “U” shape for mouth.