One of the easiest ways to create some unique designs in polymer clay is to combine two or more colors to create a “skinner blend.” For example, you can create gradient colors by blending two or three colors (or more) by repeatedly rolling the clay flat or with a pasta machine. This is how it works:
Steps:
- Condition your clay for at least 10-15 minutes, in order to make it pliable, without cracking or crumbling and the edges and seams can be invisibly blended, so the end result will be smooth. Utilizing a small pasta machine to run the clay through the rollers cuts down the conditioning time.
- You can also hold the clay in your hands and squeeze it, twist it, rotate it, and just “work” it long enough to soften the clay so it is easy to mold. This process is similar to conditioning bread dough.
- An excellent tool for this next process is the use of waxed or parchment paper, also referred to as deli or patty paper, which can be placed under the clay, as well as on top of the clay during the rolling process. It keeps the clay clean, and helps to keep the clay from sticking to the roller.
- To combine clay into gradient colors, press two (or more) colors into flat strips about 1/8th of an inch thick, roll with an acrylic roller or in a pasta machine to smooth and flatten, then fold the clay in half so the same colors are overlapping. Roll again with your roller, or pasta machine. Repeat this process several times, until you see the edges of the colors blending smoothly to make gradient strips between each solid color. The more you flatten and roll, the more the colors will blend together.
- Then, to create your shape, roll the clay flat (referred to as a slab) about 1/8 to 1/16-inch thick, on a non-stick, bakeable, white porcelain tile. These can be found in various sizes at your home hardware stores or home remodeling showroom.
- Trim the clay edges evenly with a clay blade (similar to a long, thin razor blade, but not as sharp) to make the desired rectangle shape.
- Using cardboard, plastic or a metal stencil, a cutout or cutter, press it into the clay slab, or use a sharp knife or cutting tool to outline the cutout or pattern to create the shape you want. Another easy way to create shapes is to use cookie cutters, or polymer clay cutters.
- The best material for cutters is aluminum, hard plastic or glass, since these materials do not easily stick. Or, you may use a silicone mold and trim the flat side of the mold with a sharp crafting knife.
- If your clay is too soft, it tends to stick to your knives or cutters, dip the tools in baking soda to make a thin release agent for your tools.
- Once the shapes are cut, pre-heat your toaster oven (or kitchen oven) to the temperature showing on your clay package. This method of cooking is referred to as “curing.” I usually set my large toaster oven to 275 degrees F and cure for 50 minutes. But each clay manufacturer indicates the optimal temp and time baked on the package.
- After curing your clay, it is recommended that you let it fully cool before the next step.
- After cooling completely, you can sand and/or buff your clay with fine sandpaper and soft cloth, so the sides or edges are smooth, and the colors are more vibrant. The longer your buff the clay, the more vibrant and smooth your designs.
- If you would like to add a sealant or glaze, this is optional, but often enhances the colors and designs. This will be discussed in a separate post.
- Poking a hole in in the clay depends upon what object you create. To add holes to earrings, I usually poke at the top, fairly close to the edge. The jewelry hardware or “findings” should fit through the hole. For example, earring findings would include jump rings and earring hooks (various options available). A pendant finding could be a metal base, wire wrapping base, a pinch bail or other bale, or other type of looped connector to thread the chain, a leather string, or ribbon.
- Wear and enjoy your new, beautiful, unique designs and Feel beautiful, because you are!
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