Beginning Polymer Clay

Inspired by a wonderful collection of pages at Squidoo, written by Noadi, I decided to look at polymer clay sculpting in more detail. I used to make a lot of salt dough many years ago and made quite a bit of money selling my models so I was pretty sure I'd like polymer clay.

The first thing I bought was a book. Okay, four books. Christi Friesen is the queen of polymer clay sculpting and her books have great reviews.

Using Christi's recommendations I assembled my materials:

• Premo Sculpey: 12 colors

• A pasta machine: For working and conditioning the clay to make it pliable
• Modeling tools: I bought a stainless steel set but wood or plastic work fine. Also look around your home to see what other things can be used - toothpicks, forks, old ballpoint pens and the like.
• A toaster oven: Polymer clay can leave a residue on the surfaces of your oven, so it may be a good idea to buy a cheap toaster oven especially for polymer clay baking. However, I always cover my models with foil and, so far, have seen no residue on the toaster oven.
• An oven thermometer: Essential to ensure models reach the correct curing temperature.
• Gold acrylic paint: for adding 'burnish'.
• Embellishments: Beads, watch parts, jewelery findings, copper wire, old screws and interesting bits of metal. Never use plastic, as it will melt in the oven.

As you go along you'll discover other bits and pieces you will want to add to your supplies.

My first attempt at polymer clay sculpting was the largest 'heart' in the group of four. Hearts are great models to start with as they are so straightforward. My second model was the little green dragon above. He took me hours! Both models are inspired by Cristi Friesen's books - "Steampunkery" and "Dragons".

Cut your finger nails! I kept accidentally stabbing my models until I cut my nails short.

Assemble your model on waxed (greaseproof) paper that can go straight onto a baking tray.

To add beads, cut a piece of copper wire, thread through the bead. Twist the ends together and trim to about one half inch. Use this wire 'tail' to secure the bead in position.

Bake models for 20 minutes more than the calculated time. It won't hurt them to be slightly overdone. The average temperature for most polymer clays is 135C/275F, though some are lower. If you are mixing brands, bake at the highest temperature required.

Tools used for polymer clay should not be used for cooking or food preparation.

I have given so many models away as gifts - I have learned my lesson and will photograph them before they go! I love making dragons and they seem to be popular with many friends. I wish I had the time to make more models but I have too many other projects on the go!

Next up is - rock painting!