If you are just beginning to work with polymer clay you might have a few questions, I know I did! I am here & happy to answer all that I can.
So here are the questions that are most frequently asked pertaining to polymer clay:
1. What is polymer clay?
Wikipedia defines polymer clay as a sculpt-able
material based on the polymer polyvinyl chloride
only called "clay" because its texture and working
properties resemble those of mineral clay. It is sold
in craft, hobby, and art stores, and is used by
artists, and hobbyists.
2. Where can I buy polymer clay?
Polymer clay can be purchased at your local craft
stores like Joann Fabrics, Michael's, or Hobby
Lobby. (Joann Fabrics and Hobby Lobby are my
favorites because they always have great sales!)
3.What is your favorite brand?
My favorite brand of polymer clay is FIMO, hands
down. I love it because it contains no phthalates.
Other brands of polymer clay do contain phthalates,
which can be harmful to your health if you are
exposed to them over long periods of time.
My second favorite brand is KatoClay.
4. How long do you bake?
Each piece will require a different baking time
depending on the size and volume of clay used. You
must carefully follow the directions on the
packaging. Each brand of polymer clay clearly lists
their baking directions on the front, back, or sides of
the wrapping. It's best to bake for a shorter amount
of time, rather than a longer because polymer clay
has the tendency to scorch or burn.
5. Where can I buy headpins / eyelits?
Both items can be purchased at your local craft
store, Hobby Lobby, JOann Fabrics, or Michael's.
6. How do I make them shiny?
Once a charm is finished baking, and has cooled I
use Sculpey Glossy Glaze. You can purchase glaze
or clear varnish at your local craft store, Hobby
Lobby, JOann Fabrics, or Michael's.
7. Do I add the headpin before or after baking?
I add headpins before I bake. This is the easiest way
for me. If you've just made a charm let it cool before
you insert the headpin. This will ensure that your
charm does not become disfigured.
8. Do I add rhinestones before or after baking?
I have added rhinestone to polymer clay charms
before baking, but they slightly melted in the oven.
They didn't completely dissolve, but they lost their
shape and hard edge. After this experience, I bake
first, then glue the rhinestones on with a heavy duty
craft glue once they've cooled.
