Polymer clay is a versatile and popular medium for crafting a wide array of projects, from jewelry and home décor to sculptures and miniatures. Its ability to hold intricate details and be molded into nearly any shape has made it a go-to material for hobbyists and professional crafters alike. However, like any craft, working with polymer clay comes with its own set of challenges---especially for beginners.
New polymer clay crafters often encounter a variety of pitfalls that can lead to unsatisfactory results, frustration, and wasted materials. The good news is that most of these mistakes can be easily avoided with a little knowledge and practice. In this article, we'll explore some of the most common mistakes new polymer clay crafters make and how to avoid them, so you can get the best results from your projects every time.
Not Conditioning the Clay Properly
The Mistake
One of the most common mistakes made by beginners is neglecting to properly condition the polymer clay before starting a project. Conditioning is the process of softening and warming the clay, which ensures that it's pliable and easier to work with. If the clay isn't conditioned properly, it can result in cracking, breakage, and an uneven texture in the final product.
How to Avoid It
- Knead the clay thoroughly : Start by kneading the clay between your hands to warm it up. You can also roll it out with a pasta machine (which is especially helpful if you're working with larger amounts of clay).
- Watch for consistency : The clay should feel soft, smooth, and pliable but not sticky. If it feels too dry or crumbly, add a small amount of baby oil or a clay softener to improve its texture.
- Work in small batches : If you have several colors of clay, condition them one at a time to prevent them from becoming dry before you can use them.
Using the Wrong Baking Temperature
The Mistake
Polymer clay must be baked in an oven to cure properly, but new crafters sometimes make the mistake of using the wrong temperature. Either they bake at too high a temperature, which can burn the clay, or too low a temperature, resulting in underbaked, soft, or bendable pieces.
How to Avoid It
- Check the manufacturer's guidelines : Always follow the recommended temperature range provided by the clay manufacturer. Most brands suggest a baking temperature between 265°F to 275°F (130°C).
- Invest in an oven thermometer : Ovens often have inaccurate temperature settings, so using an oven thermometer will help you get an accurate reading. This ensures that the temperature is consistent throughout the baking process.
- Don't rush the process : Allow the clay to bake for the full recommended time, depending on its thickness. Underbaking or rushing the baking process can lead to brittle or weak clay.
Overworking the Clay
The Mistake
Many beginners are excited about their new polymer clay projects and end up overworking the clay by rolling, stretching, or handling it too much. This can cause the clay to become too soft, sticky, or even smudged. Overworking can also lead to fingerprints and imperfections in the surface of the clay.
How to Avoid It
- Work in small batches : Instead of handling a large chunk of clay at once, break it down into manageable portions. This keeps the clay at a more consistent temperature and makes it easier to work with.
- Take breaks : If the clay starts to feel too soft or sticky, take a short break and let the clay rest before continuing. This allows the clay to firm up slightly, making it easier to manipulate.
- Use a rolling pin or pasta machine: For even pressure and consistent thickness, use a rolling pin or pasta machine to flatten the clay instead of using your hands.
Not Using a Protective Baking Surface
The Mistake
Another common mistake is placing polymer clay directly on a baking sheet or tray without using a protective surface. The clay can stick to metal surfaces, and when it bakes, it may warp, burn, or become discolored due to direct contact with the tray.
How to Avoid It
- Use parchment paper : Always line your baking tray with parchment paper to prevent the clay from sticking to the surface. Parchment paper also helps ensure even heat distribution during baking.
- Consider ceramic tiles : Some crafters use ceramic tiles as a baking surface for their polymer clay. The tiles help distribute heat evenly and provide a flat, stable surface for the clay.
- Avoid direct contact with aluminum foil : While it might seem like an easy fix, aluminum foil can leave unwanted marks or cause uneven baking. Stick to parchment paper or tiles for the best results.
Using Too Much Liquid or Oil
The Mistake
Some new crafters mistakenly add too much liquid or oil to their clay in an attempt to soften it or make it more pliable. However, using too much of these substances can interfere with the curing process, making the clay too soft or oily and preventing it from hardening properly during baking.
How to Avoid It
- Use sparingly : If you're adding a clay softener, baby oil, or another liquid to your clay, use just a small amount---only as much as necessary to achieve the desired consistency. Adding excess liquid can cause the clay to become too greasy.
- Test the texture : After adding softener or oil, knead the clay thoroughly and check its consistency. The clay should be smooth and pliable but not wet or sticky.
- Allow excess to evaporate : If you've added too much liquid, let the clay sit for a few minutes to allow some of it to evaporate before proceeding with your project.
Failing to Plan for Layering or Mixing Colors
The Mistake
When working on more intricate polymer clay projects, beginners often fail to plan ahead when it comes to layering or mixing colors. This can lead to muddy colors or uneven layers that don't adhere properly to one another.
How to Avoid It
- Plan your colors : Think about how the colors will interact with one another, especially when layering different hues or blending colors together. Some colors may bleed or mix into each other in ways you don't expect, so it's always best to test small sections first.
- Use thin layers : When layering different colors or elements, apply thin layers of clay and make sure each layer is thoroughly cured before adding another. This helps prevent distortion or smearing between layers.
- Blend carefully : If you want to blend colors together, use a technique like marbling or "skinny" blending (using small strips of clay) to control the process and avoid ending up with muddy or uneven results.
Not Keeping a Clean Work Surface
The Mistake
Polymer clay can easily pick up dust, hair, or other particles, which can affect the quality of your final piece. Beginners often overlook the importance of maintaining a clean work surface, resulting in imperfections, unwanted marks, or textures on their projects.
How to Avoid It
- Clean your work surface : Always clean your work surface before starting any project. Wipe down the area to remove any dust, lint, or debris that could contaminate the clay.
- Keep your hands clean : Wipe your hands frequently, especially if you're working with light-colored clay. This helps prevent smudging or transferring unwanted oils and dirt onto the clay.
- Use a dedicated work mat : Consider investing in a silicone work mat, which is easy to clean and provides a smooth, non-stick surface for working with polymer clay.
Not Allowing the Clay to Cool Properly
The Mistake
After baking polymer clay, many beginners make the mistake of trying to handle or manipulate their projects too soon. Polymer clay needs time to cool down properly in order to avoid warping or cracking.
How to Avoid It
- Let it cool naturally : Allow your polymer clay pieces to cool down in the oven or on a heat-resistant surface before handling them. This helps the clay set properly and prevents stress cracks or warping.
- Be patient : If you're working with larger projects, such as sculptures or jewelry, ensure that they cool completely before you start sanding or finishing them.
Conclusion
While working with polymer clay can be incredibly rewarding, it's essential to understand the common mistakes that can hinder your results, especially when you're just starting out. By avoiding the pitfalls of improper conditioning, incorrect baking temperatures, and other beginner mistakes, you'll be on your way to creating beautiful, durable, and professional-quality pieces. Remember that practice is key, and every mistake is an opportunity to learn and improve. Keep experimenting, refine your techniques, and most importantly---enjoy the creative process!