Dig deeper into why Cernit polymer clay is a favorite of many artists and hobbyists around the globe because of its exceptional quality, texture, and color-rich range by exploring this comprehensive product review.
Key takeaways:
- Cernit polymer clay is known for its exceptional quality and versatility.
- It possesses a semi-translucent quality that mimics fine porcelain.
- Cernit is available in a variety of vibrant colors and effects.
- After curing, Cernit maintains its color integrity and has a smooth, porcelain-like finish.
- Cernit polymer clay is strong, flexible, and suitable for sculpting.
What You Will Learn
A First Look At Cernit
Cernit is a type of polymer clay known for its versatile properties allowing crafters to create detailed and durable artworks.
Unlike other clays, it possesses a semi-translucent quality that mimics the look of fine porcelain, making it highly sought after for jewelry and doll making.
It’s available in a variety of colors and effects, including neon and metallic finishes, which remain vibrant even after curing.
Cernit remains pliable and easy to work with, providing a smooth texture that doesn’t stick to your fingers excessively.
It is safe for home ovens, hardening when baked at the recommended temperature.
This makes it accessible for both beginners and professionals to use for their creative projects.
How Does Cernit Change During Baking?
When exposed to the heat of an oven, Cernit undergoes a transformative process termed ‘curing’. Initially pliable, the polymer clay starts to harden as the temperature rises, typically around 110-130°C (230-266°F) for about 30 minutes, depending on thickness.
The heat prompts a chemical reaction that solidifies the clay, which is why it’s essential not to underbake— doing so may result in weak, brittle finished pieces. Conversely, overbaking can cause discoloration or burning, but Cernit is known for its ability to maintain color integrity when cured correctly.
Additionally, the baked clay will have a subtle sheen, resembling the finish of porcelain, and can be further sanded or polished for increased smoothness.
Cernit’s Unique Qualities: Porcelain & Color Changing
Cernit polymer clay is known for its exceptional finish and color properties. When cured, it can mimic the look of fine porcelain, offering a delicate and sophisticated appearance ideal for creating art pieces and jewelry. This quality sets it apart from other polymer clays on the market, making it a favorite for artists who want a high-end look.
Additionally, Cernit offers a ‘Color Change’ line that reacts to heat. After being baked, these clays show a different nuance or a completely new color, adding an element of surprise and creativity to your projects. It’s ideal for those who enjoy experimenting with color transitions and creating dynamic pieces that stand out.
These special characteristics make Cernit a versatile medium suitable for both professionals and hobbyists seeking to push the boundaries of their creative work.
Color Ranges in the Cernit Line
Cernit polymer clay stands out for its extensive color palette, satisfying both traditional tastes and the demand for unique hues. The range includes:
- The Number One series, offering essential colors that can be mixed to create custom shades.
- The Neon Light collection, introducing bright and eye-catching tones perfect for striking creations.
- Nature series, inspired by subtle earthy and mineral colors, is ideal for more muted, realistic projects.
- Translucent colors, which are semi-transparent, allow for the creation of glass-like effects or detailed work requiring depth.
- Glamour series, which includes metallic and pearlescent shades, adds a touch of shine and sophistication to any project.
Each series is formulated to maintain color intensity after baking, ensuring the finished piece looks as vibrant as when it was molded. Whether it’s intricate jewelry, decorative homewares, or detailed figurines, Cernit provides a spectrum of possibilities for every creative endeavor.
How Strong Is Cernit Polymer Clay?
Cernit polymer clay is renowned for its impressive strength and durability after curing, which is a result of the clay’s composition and the cross-linking that occurs during the baking process. Its robust nature makes it a favorite for creating jewelry, beads, and sculpted items that may be subject to handling and wear.
1. Flexibility Post-Curing: Unlike some other polymer clays, Cernit remains somewhat flexible after baking, especially in thin sheets or delicate shapes. This flexibility helps prevent breakage from minor bending or dropping.
2. Resistance to Chipping: Its strong surface can withstand impacts without chipping easily. This characteristic ensures that creations stand up to daily use.
3. Sanding and Drilling: After baking, Cernit can be sanded to a smooth finish and drilled without cracking, allowing for more intricate work and finishing touches.
4. Strength Comparison: When compared with other brands, Cernit often comes out on top in terms of tensile strength, meaning it’s less likely to break when stretched or pulled.
5. Mixing with Other Clays: For projects requiring additional firmness, Cernit can be mixed with other polymer clays to achieve a desirable level of sturdiness without sacrificing its unique properties.
By understanding these aspects, crafters can effectively utilize Cernit for projects requiring a strong, reliable polymer clay.
Is Cernit Good for Sculpting?
Cernit polymer clay is revered for its smooth consistency and ability to capture fine details, making it a preferred material for artists who specialize in miniature sculptures and intricate jewelry pieces.
Its porcelain-like finish after baking adds a touch of elegance to the sculptures. Moreover, Cernit remains flexible once cured, which reduces the risk of breakage in delicate parts.
For larger sculptures, Cernit can be mixed with firmer clays to add stability. The clay conditions well, blending easily and holding up during the shaping process. This versatility is beneficial for sculptors who wish to combine different clays for various structural or aesthetic purposes.
One thing to note is Cernit’s slight transparency after curing, which can be an advantage when creating realistic skin tones or gem-like effects. Paints and varnishes adhere well to its surface, allowing for further customization post-baking.
While ideal for detailed work, those new to polymer clays might experience a learning curve with Cernit due to its softness compared to other brands. However, with practice, its malleability becomes an asset, allowing for refined sculpting techniques.
Where Can I Buy Cernit?
Cernit polymer clay is accessible both online and in physical craft stores. Well-known craft retailers such as Michaels, Hobby Lobby, and Jo-Ann Fabrics typically stock this product; however, their selection may vary.
For a wider variety, specialty online stores dedicated to polymer clay or artisanal supplies offer an expansive range of colors and product lines. Amazon and Etsy are additional platforms where Cernit is available, often providing opportunities to purchase from various sellers.
When buying online, compare prices and watch for sales or discounts. Purchasing directly from a manufacturer’s website or an authorized dealer ensures the product is fresh, as polymer clay can become difficult to work with if it’s old or improperly stored. Remember to check shipping policies and costs, as these can affect the total purchase price, especially when ordering from international sellers.
How to Use, Bake, and Store Cernit?
Working with Cernit involves a few simple steps. Begin by conditioning the clay, which means kneading it until it’s pliable.
For shaping, you can use your hands, tools or molds.
Once your creation is ready, it’s time to cure it in a home oven.
Precise baking is crucial — normally at 110-130°C (230-266°F) for 15-30 minutes, depending on the size and thickness of the piece.
Always refer to the packaging for exact instructions.
After baking, allow your piece to cool completely before handling, as Cernit continues to harden when cooling.
If extra strength is needed, you can add a second baking cycle.
For storage, wrap unused Cernit in wax paper or keep it in a cool, dark place inside a sealed container to prevent dust accumulation and maintain its workability.
Avoid storing it in direct sunlight or at high temperatures to preserve its quality.
Customer Reviews and Safety
Customers often praise Cernit for its porcelain-like finish and wide spectrum of colors. The polymer clay is frequently described as being highly durable once baked, maintaining flexibility that reduces the risk of breaking, making it popular for jewelry and doll-making.
Some report a learning curve with its conditioning compared to other brands but find the end results to be superior in terms of the finished texture and appearance.
Regarding safety, Cernit polymer clay is non-toxic, but it’s important to work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling particles or fumes. Always follow the baking instructions to avoid burning, which can create harmful smoke. Like with any polymer clay, it should not come into contact with food preparation areas or utensils.
Regular hand-washing after use is suggested to prevent skin irritation or transferring residual colors. It’s also worth noting that finished Cernit products are safe to handle and wear.
FAQ
Is Cernit polymer clay good?
Yes, Cernit polymer clay is good due to its flexible and malleable properties, non-stickiness to fingers, odorless nature, non-staining characteristics, and the unique glossy finish it offers post baking.
What is Cernit clay used for?
Cernit clay is prominently used for crafting fine jewellery, flowers, and braceless bracelets due to its outstanding flexibility and resistance.
Is Cernit clay soft?
Yes, Cernit clay is known for its softness and ease of use.
How can you best condition Cernit polymer clay?
To best condition Cernit polymer clay, knead it well until it’s soft and pliable, using a clay conditioning machine if available, for an even, smooth consistency.
Is Cernit polymer clay suitable for professional use?
Yes, Cernit polymer clay is suitable for professional use given its premium quality, excellent malleability, and vibrant color range.
Can Cernit polymer clay be mixed with other types of clay?
Yes, Cernit polymer clay can be mixed with other types of polymer clay to create unique colors and effects.
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