Understanding Polymer Clay: A Beginner's Guide

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 11 July 2023 8 min read

Stepping into the world of crafting can seem daunting, but let's start with something fun and accessible: polymer clay. If you've ever asked, "What is polymer clay?" you're in the right place. This beginner's guide will help you understand this versatile material and how to use it in your projects.

1. Get to Know Polymer Clay

First things first, let's break down what polymer clay is, its types, and some top brands you might want to explore. Getting to know your material is the first step towards creating masterpieces!

What is Polymer Clay?

Polymer clay is a type of modeling clay that hardens when you bake it in a regular oven. Unlike traditional clay, it's made of polymers — think of them as tiny bits of plastic — mixed with color pigments and fillers. The beauty of polymer clay is that it doesn't dry out in the air, so you can take your time shaping it to your heart's content. It's perfect for making everything from beads and charms to intricate sculptures.

Types of Polymer Clay

Next, let's talk about the different types of polymer clay. There are three main types you'll come across:

Professional-grade clay: This type has a firm texture and holds detail very well. It's great for making complex pieces, but might be a bit challenging for beginners.
General craft clay: Slightly softer than professional-grade, this clay is easier to work with and good for a wide range of projects. It's a great starting point if you're new to polymer clay.
Kids' clay: The softest of the lot, kids' clay is perfect for little hands to shape and mold. It may not hold fine details as well, but it's still a lot of fun to play with!

Brands to Explore

There are several brands of polymer clay to choose from, each with their own pros and cons. Here are three popular ones:

Fimo: A well-known brand offering both professional and craft-grade clay. Fimo is known for its firmness and range of vibrant colors.
Sculpey: Sculpey offers a wide range of clays, from very soft to very firm. It's a favorite among many crafters because of its versatility and ease of use.
Premo: Premo clay is soft, easy to condition, and holds detail well. It's a good choice if you're planning to make detailed pieces.

Experiment with a few brands to see which one you prefer — everyone's clay journey is unique!

2. Tools of the Trade

Now that you know what polymer clay is and have picked a brand to try out, let's move onto the tools you'll need. Just like a carpenter needs their hammer and saw, a clay crafter needs their own set of tools to bring their visions to life.

Essential Tools

There are a few key tools that you'll need to start your polymer clay journey:

Rolling pin or pasta machine: You'll need something to roll out your clay. A simple acrylic rolling pin will do, or you can get a pasta machine for more even, precise sheets.
Blades: A sharp blade is vital for cutting and shaping clay. Look for a clay-specific blade, as they're designed to handle the material without dragging or tearing.
Baking tray and parchment paper: Remember, polymer clay bakes in the oven! You'll need a tray and some parchment paper to bake your creations on.
Needle tool: This is a handy tool for poking holes, adding fine details, and even helping to blend clay together.

Optional Extras

Once you've got the basics covered, you might want to consider some additional tools to broaden your crafting capabilities:

Texture sheets or stamps: These can be used to add interesting textures to your clay pieces.
Molds: If you're not confident in your shaping skills yet, molds can help you create detailed pieces with ease.
Clay extruder: This tool pushes clay through a die to create long strands of clay in various shapes. It can be a real time-saver!

Where to Shop

When it comes to shopping for your polymer clay and tools, local craft stores are a great place to start. They usually have a good selection and the staff can provide helpful advice. For a wider range, you might want to check out larger online retailers like Amazon. Just be sure to read reviews before making a purchase — not all clay or tools are created equal!

With your clay and tools in hand, you're ready for the next step: learning how to condition your polymer clay.

3. How to Condition Polymer Clay

So, you've got your polymer clay and your tools. Before you start crafting, there's one important step you need to take — conditioning your clay. But what is polymer clay conditioning, you might ask? Well, let's dive in.

Why Condition?

Conditioning is a bit like warming up before a workout. It gets your clay ready for the work ahead. It helps to make the clay softer, easier to shape, and ensures the particles are evenly distributed. In short, conditioning makes your clay behave better, and who doesn't want that?

Step-by-Step Guide

Wondering how to condition polymer clay? Here's a simple step-by-step guide:

Warm it up: Start by warming the clay in your hands. Give it a good squeeze - but not too hard!
Roll and fold: Next, roll the clay into a snake shape, fold it in half, and roll it out again. Repeat this process several times.
Pasta machine: If you have a pasta machine, pass the clay through it a few times. Start on the thickest setting and gradually reduce the thickness.
Test it: Finally, roll the clay into a ball and then flatten it. If it cracks at the edges, it needs more conditioning. If it's smooth, congrats — your clay is ready to use!

Troubleshooting Tips

Conditioning can be a bit tricky at first, but don't worry, we've got you covered. If your clay is too hard, try warming it up more in your hands or use a clay softener. If it's too sticky, let it rest for a while, or mix in a bit of a firmer clay. And remember, practice makes perfect!

Now that your clay is well-conditioned, it's time to start shaping. Ready to learn some basic techniques?

4. Basic Shaping Techniques

With your polymer clay all conditioned and ready, it's time to let your creative juices flow. But before you start, it's helpful to understand some basic shaping techniques. So, what is polymer clay shaping all about? Let's take a look.

Creating Simple Shapes

When you start with polymer clay, it's best to start simple. Here are some easy shapes you can make:

Balls: Roll a small amount of clay between your palms until it forms a smooth ball.
Teardrops: Shape a ball into a teardrop by rolling one side more than the other.
Coils: Roll the clay on a flat surface to create a long, thin coil. You can use this for a variety of designs.
Cubes: Mold the clay into a ball, then gently press the sides to form a cube.

Adding Texture and Detail

Texture and detail can really make your designs stand out. Here are some ideas:

Stamps: You can use rubber stamps to imprint patterns into the clay.
Tools: Use your clay tools to carve designs or add details like eyes, scales, or hair.
Textiles: Press a piece of fabric into the clay to create a unique texture.

Tricks for Perfection

When you're shaping polymer clay, here are a few tricks to keep in mind:

Keep your hands clean: Wash your hands between colors to avoid unintended mixing.
Work slowly: Take your time to get the shapes just right. If you're not happy, you can always start again!
Keep it cool: If your clay gets too warm and sticky, give it a rest or pop it in the fridge for a few minutes.

With these basic shaping techniques under your belt, you're ready to take your polymer clay crafting to the next level. And remember, practice is key. Now, are you ready for the heat? Because next, we're going to talk about baking your polymer clay creations.

5. Baking Polymer Clay

Now that your polymer clay masterpiece is shaped and detailed, it's time for the final step — baking! But what is polymer clay baking all about? Let's dive in.

Preparing for Baking

Baking your polymer clay creation is a delicate process, but don't worry, it's not as intimidating as it sounds! Here are a few tips for a successful baking session:

Choose the right surface: Baking directly on metal or glass can cause the bottom of your piece to darken. A ceramic tile or baking sheet lined with parchment paper tends to work best.
Arrange your pieces: Make sure there's enough space between your pieces. They shouldn't touch each other or the sides of the oven.
Preheat your oven: Like baking cookies, preheating is important to ensure even heating.

How Long and How Hot?

The baking temperature and time depend on the type and brand of polymer clay you're using. Always check the packaging for specific instructions. However, a general rule of thumb is to bake at a temperature of 275°F (130°C) for about 15 minutes per 1/4 inch (6mm) of thickness.

Remember: Overbaking can lead to discoloration and brittleness, while underbaking can leave your piece fragile or not fully cured. So, keep a close eye on the time and temperature!

After Baking

So you've baked your polymer clay, now what? Here are the next steps:

Let it cool: Give your piece time to cool down before touching it. It will harden as it cools.
Sanding and buffing: If needed, you can smooth out any imperfections with sandpaper, and buff it for a nice shine.
Sealing: Some polymer clay creations benefit from a coat of sealant for added protection or gloss.

With your piece baked and finished, the only thing left is to admire your work and start planning your next project. Speaking of which, let's get those creative gears turning with some project ideas!

6. Creative Project Ideas

So, you've got a handle on what polymer clay is and how to work with it. But what can you make with polymer clay? The possibilities are endless! Here are some project ideas to kickstart your creativity.

Jewelry Making

From delicate earrings to bold statement necklaces, polymer clay makes for a fantastic jewelry material. Why? Its versatility allows you to mimic different materials like stone, wood, or even metal. Plus, you can create unique color blends and intricate patterns. So, why not start with a simple pair of stud earrings, a charm bracelet, or a pendant necklace?

Home Decor

Want to add a personal touch to your home? Polymer clay has you covered. Picture this: a set of handmade coasters with a marble effect for your coffee table or a colorful, funky wall clock for your kitchen. Or how about custom drawer knobs that bring a pop of color to your furniture? With polymer clay, you're the artist, and your home is the canvas.

Miniature Creations

For those who enjoy the little things in life, miniature creations can be a delightful project. Whether it's tiny food items for a dollhouse, a mini sculpture for your desk, or a small figurine as a gift, working on the small scale can be a lot of fun. Just remember — patience is key when you're working with tiny details!

So there you have it! A beginner's guide to understanding polymer clay. From answering "what is polymer clay?" to providing tips on baking and creative project ideas, we've covered the basics. Now, it's time for you to roll up your sleeves, unleash your creativity, and start your polymer clay journey. There's a world of fun, creativity, and satisfaction waiting for you. Enjoy!

If you're excited about diving deeper into the world of clay and want to expand your knowledge beyond polymer clay, check out the workshop 'Pottery Basics: Everything You Need To Know' by Meghan Yarnell. This workshop will introduce you to various types of clay and provide essential techniques to help you create beautiful pottery pieces.