What is Polymer Clay: Your Easy-to-Follow Guide on Understanding and Using Polymer Clay

This guide offers a clear understanding of what polymer clay is, detailing its composition, its beneficial properties, and its diverse uses particularly within the construction industry.

Composition and Types of Polymer Clay

Polymer clay is a pliable material crafted from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), plasticizers to enhance flexibility, and pigments for color variety. It’s not a natural clay but a synthetic product, softening when worked by hand and hardening permanently after baking.

The variety is broad, offering a range of clays tailored to different projects:

• 1. Sculpting Clay: Firm and holds fine details, perfect for intricate work.
• 2. Soft Clay: Easier to condition, ideal for beginners.
• 3. Liquid Polymer Clays: Pourable and used for grouting or as a surface finish.
• 4. Specialty Clays: Some mimic the appearance of materials like granite or glow in the dark.

By choosing the appropriate type, crafters can achieve desired effects and complexities in their creations.

Uses and Advantages of Polymer Clay Over Other Clays

Polymer clay stands out for its versatility and ease of use, allowing both novices and experts to create detailed and intricate designs. Unlike natural clay, it doesn’t dry out when exposed to air, which means you can work with it at your own pace. Its wide range of colors can be mixed like paint to achieve any desired hue, eliminating the need for glazing.

Another advantage is its strength and durability. Once cured, polymer clay maintains its form and does not become brittle, making it ideal for making jewelry, figurines, and decorative items. Moreover, it adheres well to various materials including metals, glass, and ceramics, allowing for mixed media creations.

As it requires only a low-temperature oven to harden, polymer clay can be baked in a home oven, making it accessible for home crafters without the need for a kiln. Plus, the finished objects are waterproof and can be further sanded, drilled, or carved, providing endless post-baking possibilities.

Creating With Polymer Clay: Basics and Conditioning

Polymer clay transforms from a pliable material to a hardened form through the process of conditioning followed by baking. Before fashioning your designs, it’s essential to condition the clay, which invigorates the plasticizers and makes the clay workable.

To condition polymer clay, start by warming it in your hands, then roll, fold, and flatten it repeatedly. A pasta machine or a dedicated acrylic roller can make this step easier and more efficient. The clay is ready once it’s soft and smooth, without any crumbles.

For best results:

• Slice thicker blocks into thinner pieces to expedite conditioning.
• Avoid mixing dust or dirt by cleaning your workspace and hands.
• If the clay is too firm, a small amount of clay softener can help.
• Overworking the clay can make it too soft; if this happens, let it rest or cool down to regain firmness.

After conditioning, shape the clay into your desired forms or use molds and tools for precision. Keep in mind that once baked, the design is permanent, so ensure that you’re satisfied with your creation before proceeding to the baking stage.

Baking and Storing Polymer Clay

To solidify your creation, polymer clay must be cured through a baking process. Follow manufacturer instructions for temperature, typically ranging between 265-275°F (129-135°C), and bake on parchment paper or a ceramic tile. The baking time depends on the thickness of the piece, usually 15 minutes per 1/4 inch thickness.

After baking, allow items to cool down completely before handling to prevent deformation. Polymer clay pieces can then be sanded, drilled, or painted to create a finished look.

For storage, ensure your uncured polymer clay is kept away from heat, direct sunlight, and doesn’t get crushed. Seal it in airtight containers or zip bags to prevent dust accumulation and to maintain its pliability for future use. Be mindful not to store different colors touching, as they can transfer onto each other.

Safety Precautions While Using Polymer Clay

Handling polymer clay is generally considered safe, however, it’s important to follow certain precautions to ensure a risk-free experience:

1. Ventilation – When baking polymer clay, ensure the room is well-ventilated. Fumes released during the curing process should not be inhaled in high concentrations.

2. Temperature Accuracy – Use an oven thermometer to confirm your oven’s temperature. Overheating the clay can release hazardous chemicals.

3. Avoid Contact with Food Surfaces – Designate tools and work areas specifically for polymer clay to prevent any cross-contamination with food.

4. Use Protective Gear – Consider wearing disposable gloves and protective eyewear to prevent skin and eye irritation, especially if you’re sensitive to chemical compounds.

5. Clean Thoroughly – Wash your hands after using polymer clay. If you’ve used any kitchen equipment, clean it well before using it for cooking again.

By respecting these simple guidelines, you’ll enjoy crafting with polymer clay while keeping your creative space and yourself safe.

FAQ

What is the difference between clay and polymer clay?

The essential difference between clay and polymer clay is that while the former sets due to air exposure, the latter requires heat to harden, and unlike traditional clay, polymer clay does not shrink while hardening.

What is polymer clay used for?

Polymer clay is utilized primarily for crafting items such as jewelry, beads, charms, figurines, picture frames, and also for decorating objects made of glass, wood, metal, and some plastics.

Is polymer clay a plastic?

Yes, polymer clay is a form of plastic as it is made from a plastic polymer base known as polyvinyl chloride (PVC).

Do you have to bake polymer clay?

Yes, polymer clay needs to be baked as it is oil-based and requires heat, generally at 275 F, for curing and hardening.

How safe is polymer clay for crafting activities and fine arts?

Polymer clay is generally safe for crafting and fine arts activities, but it should not be ingested and adequate ventilation is recommended during the baking process.

What are the properties that distinguish polymer clay from traditional clay?

Polymer clay, unlike traditional clay, is a type of modeling clay that doesn’t dry out, can be baked in a home oven to harden, and is versatile due to its varied colors and ability to hold fine details.

Can polymer clay be reused, and if so, how should it be stored to maintain its quality?

Yes, unused polymer clay can be reused and should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and preferably wrapped tightly in plastic wrap to maintain its quality.

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