I tried to make the polymer clay rolls and when I tried to cut it into slices it smushed it down. What should I cut it with to keep the shape nice and round and not to mess up the pattern inside. Also, should I poke thread holes in the beads right away or let them sit out a few hours before I make the holes? Thanks for any tips!
2006-09-05 06:41:51 · 5 answers · asked by jensven1017 2 in Games & Recreation ➔ Hobbies & Crafts
Warm clay is mushy and cold clay is harder, so you need to put it in the refrigerator for a couple of hours before you cut it and then use a very sharp blade - the blades that are sold in craft stores specifically for cutting polymer clay are the best. You should also refrigerate the beads before poking holes so that the clay is hard and the bead won't change shape. Then bake. I often use metal turkey laces to poke the holes, then I leave the beads on the lace while baking so I'm sure the holes will stay open, but many people prefer larger holes than turkey laces will make.
2006-09-05 08:42:23 · answer #1 · answered by Danaerys 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I have always used the polymer clay blades that are made specifically for the clay but they do go dull eventually so replacing them every so often is essential. If you are already using them and they are new,then you may be trying to cut too soon after making them. Let the clay rest on a cool surface or even in the fridge for a short time and cut with a very light hand....the blades are so sharp that they do most of the work. At times, I have tried to roll the cane as I cut it,but you run the risk of an uneven cut. As for making the bead holes....I let the clay rest on a cool surface such as a marble or ceramic tile for an hour or so before piercing so the bead retains its shape as I press the needle tool through.
2006-09-05 13:00:55 · answer #2 · answered by jidwg 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You can use waxed dental floss and or fishing line and also if you want to make holes about 1-2 hrs after, but before you bake the clay.
Because of its pliable consistency before hardening, it can be molded in various kinds of molds (and the molds themselves can be made with it), and it be stamped and textured, etc. After hardening, it can be sanded and buffed, drilled, carved, antiqued, varnished (with glossy finish, if desired), etc.
To find many free lessons on all these ways of using polymer clay, look at http://www.glassattic.com (there's also a bit more info in Wikipedia http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polymer_clay )
2006-09-05 06:50:24 · answer #3 · answered by mysticideas 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I've seen a friend use a piece of thin wire to cut, kinda like a cheese slicer on a piece of wood that she laid her clay on , I've seen her poke holes while it was doughy, and I've seen her use a hand cranked awl when they were baked. either way I guess but I think the awl is cleaner.
2006-09-05 06:46:27 · answer #4 · answered by Melissa B 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You can try using a razor blade, and some people use a sharp scapel--be very careful! Or, you can use a wire. It doesn't matter when you make the holes.
2006-09-05 06:49:10 · answer #5 · answered by poppet 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋