Understanding Polymer Clay
Polymer clay is a synthetic clay made from PVC (polyvinyl chloride) plastic. Its components are non-toxic, making it safe for use without gloves. It’s ideal for children but should never be ingested or come into contact with food as it is strictly for artistic purposes.
Unbaked polymer clay has a texture between traditional clay and modern modelling clay. Once baked, it hardens—a process called polymerisation. Compared to traditional clay, polymer clay is relatively new, emerging only in the 1950s, and is considered a modern medium.
Polymer clay can be moulded, sculpted, blended, painted, and varnished to create costume jewellery, decorative objects, and small figurines. Artists can incorporate materials like embossing powders, chalk pastels, paints, alcohol inks, pigments, metal powders, foil, spices, sand, and even powdered flower petals.
Choosing the Right Clay Firmness
The firmness of polymer clay affects its usability:
- Firmer clay: Best for detailed creations like figurines or millefiori designs.
- Softer clay: More malleable and sticky, suitable for textures and techniques like the ‘Sutton Slice.’
Proper Baking Tips
Most polymer clays bake at 130°C in a conventional oven for at least 30 minutes. Use a dedicated polymer clay oven to avoid contamination from released gases. A thermometer is recommended for accurate temperature control.
Note: Polymer clay is still soft and fragile right out of the oven. It hardens and stabilizes as it cools. Avoid microwave baking.
Top Polymer Clay Brands and Their Features
FIMO
FIMO is a popular choice among beginners and professionals due to its versatility and wide range of colors and effects.
- FIMO soft: Very flexible and easy to use, ideal for beginners and children.
- FIMO professional: Firmer, excellent for detailed projects and advanced artists.
- FIMO effect: Offers special effects like pearlescent, granite, glitter, and transparent finishes.
- FIMO leather-effect: Mimics leather texture after baking.
- FIMOair: Air-drying clay available in various finishes.
Sculpey
Sculpey provides a broad range of options for beginners and experienced artists:
- Original Sculpey: Easy to work with, perfect for beginners.
- Sculpey III: Excellent for general crafting.
- Super Sculpey: Durable with multiple firmness levels, ideal for professionals.
- Sculpey Soufflé: Lightweight and holds intricate details well.
- Sculpey Premo!: Designed for advanced techniques, with accents offering pearlescent and glitter effects.
- Sculpey Bake Shop: Kid-friendly with flexible, rubber-like results.
Cernit
Cernit stands out for its shiny finish post-baking, often eliminating the need for varnish. It offers unique ranges such as:
- Cernit Doll: Reproduces realistic skin tones.
- Cernit Nature: Mimics natural materials like stone.
- Cernit Pearl: Features iridescent effects.
- Cernit Translucent: Perfect for ultra-realistic designs.
Endless Creative Possibilities
Polymer clay offers unlimited opportunities for creativity. Its ability to be reworked repeatedly makes it an excellent medium for both beginners and professionals. Explore its potential and bring your ideas to life!
