Polymer clay is a versatile medium that lets artists create everything from delicate jewelry to eye‑catching sculpture. While the material is relatively durable, the finishes, colors, and structural integrity can still suffer over time if the pieces aren't cared for properly. Below is a step‑by‑step guide to preserving your polymer‑clay creations and framing them so they stay vibrant, stable, and safe for years to come.
Understand the Material
| Property | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Thermoplastic | Polymer clay softens when heated and re‑hardens when cooled, making it susceptible to heat fluctuations. |
| Surface Finish | Glossy, matte, or painted finishes can wear or yellow if exposed to UV light or harsh chemicals. |
| Structural Strength | Thin arms, delicate details, or hollow forms can become brittle if not supported. |
Knowing these traits helps you choose the right preservation and framing strategies.
Finish Your Piece Properly
-
Cure at the Correct Temperature
- Follow the manufacturer's recommended bake temperature (usually 260‑275 °F / 130‑135 °C).
- Use an oven thermometer; an inaccurate oven can cause under‑cooking (soft spots) or over‑cooking (brittleness, discoloration).
-
Seal the Surface
-
Avoid UV Damage
Provide Structural Support
- Internal Armature : For tall or slender sculptures, embed a thin wire or metal rod during the modeling stage.
- Backing Board : Attach the finished piece to a rigid board (foam core, MDF, or archival‑grade mat board) using museum‑quality adhesives (e.g., 3 M Photo Mount).
- Stabilizing Grommets : For pieces with protruding elements, discreetly screw small grommets into the backing. This allows you to hang the artwork without stressing the clay itself.
Choose the Right Frame
| Frame Feature | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Material | Acid‑free wood or metal with a powder‑coat finish to avoid off‑gassing. |
| Glass vs. Acrylic | Use UV‑protective glass (or acrylic) to block harmful rays. Acrylic is lighter but can scratch more easily. |
| Depth | Select a deep‑set (shadow box) frame for three‑dimensional works; 2--3 inches of depth provides room for the piece and any backing. |
| Mounting Hardware | Use stainless‑steel or brass screws and brackets; avoid cheap zinc that can corrode and stain the clay. |
| Sealability | Frames with a sealed back (rubber gasket) keep dust and humidity out. |
Step‑by‑Step Framing Process
- Measure : Record the exact dimensions of the artwork including any protruding elements.
- Cut the Backing : Trim archival mat board or foam core to the inner dimensions of the frame.
- Attach the Piece
- Add a Protective Spacer (optional)
- Insert UV‑Protective Glass
- Seal the Frame
- Lay the backing in place, secure the frame's clips or screws, and attach any dust cover.
Control the Environment
-
- Use LED lighting with a color temperature of 3000--3500 K. LEDs produce minimal UV radiation.
- Keep direct sunlight off the piece; if natural light is unavoidable, rotate the artwork periodically.
-
- Keep the display area free from smoking, strong odors, or chemicals that could degrade the sealer.
- Consider an air purifier with a HEPA filter for dusty environments.
Maintenance Routine
| Frequency | Action |
|---|---|
| Weekly | Dust the glass or acrylic with a microfiber cloth; avoid spraying cleaners directly on the glass. |
| Monthly | Inspect the sealant for any micro‑cracks or yellowing; touch up with a fresh thin coat if needed. |
| Annually | Check the frame's hardware for looseness; tighten any screws and verify that the backing is still secure. |
| Every 3--5 Years | Consider professional conservation assessment for valuable pieces---especially if you notice discoloration or structural stress. |
Safe Storage (If You Need to Stow the Piece)
-
-
Use a Rigid Container
- Store in a polyethylene or corrugated box with a snug fit; fill excess space with acid‑free packing paper.
-
Store in a Climate‑Controlled Area
- A dark closet or storage cabinet with a dehumidifier works well.
Common Pitfalls & How to Avoid Them
| Pitfall | Consequence | Prevention |
|---|---|---|
| Over‑baking | Browning, brittleness, loss of detail | Use a calibrated oven thermometer and stick to recommended times. |
| Using Oil‑Based Sealers | Yellowing and attraction of dust | Choose water‑based acrylic sealers labeled "non‑yellowing." |
| Direct Contact with Glazing | Marks, scratches, or pressure cracks | Use a spacer or mount the piece slightly away from the glass. |
| Improper Adhesives | Chemical reactions, discoloration | Stick with museum‑grade, pH‑neutral adhesives. |
| Neglecting UV Protection | Fading of colors, brittle surface | Install UV‑blocking glass or keep the piece away from strong sunlight. |
Quick Checklist Before Hanging
- [ ] Piece is fully cured and sealed.
- [ ] Internal armature or backing is secure.
- [ ] Frame depth accommodates the piece without force.
- [ ] UV‑protective glass is installed.
- [ ] Hanging hardware is appropriate for the frame weight.
- [ ] Display location meets temperature, humidity, and lighting guidelines.
Final Thoughts
Preserving polymer‑clay art isn't just about protecting a pretty object---it's about honoring the time, skill, and creativity that went into each piece. By following these steps---proper curing, sealing, structural reinforcement, thoughtful framing, and environmental control---you give your artwork the best chance to shine for decades.
Happy creating, and may your polymer‑clay masterpieces stay vibrant and inspiring for generations to come!