What is Polymer Clay? Crafting with Versatile Modelling Material

Polymer clay art is a highly versatile crafting medium known for its pliability, durability, and ease of use. Made from a synthetic polymer compound, it hardens when baked in the oven at low temperatures, which makes it perfect for all sorts of artistic ideas. Artists and hobbyists use polymer clay to create everything from small fun figures to intricate jewellery pieces or functional items like beads and decorative accents for your scrapbook.

It’s one of the most popular and fun hobbies for crafters, and in this introduction to polymer clay art, we’ll answer the question ‘what can you make with polymer clay’. Here’s your guide to polymer clay crafting, explained simply and easily so you can get started in no time!

The first type of plastic made from synthetic materials was Bakelite which was developed around 1907. However, the journey of polymer clay began later with the development of PVC-based compounds. In 1939, a synthetic clay compound found its way into the studio of the renowned German doll maker Käthe Kruse. Although it wasn’t suitable for dolls, she gave some of the clay to her daughter, Sophie Rehbinder-Kruse, affectionately known as “Fifi,” who used it to create models.

The product was later marketed by Eberhard Faber and named “FIMO,” which stands for “Fifi’s Modeling Compound.” In 1978, the FIMO brand was acquired by Staedtler. Today, FIMO remains one of the best-selling brands of modelling polymer clay in the world.

Polymer clay is a non-natural substance made from polyvinyl chloride, better known as PVC, a type of plastic. The addition of things like resins and liquid plasticisers gives the clay its pliability, colouring agents ensure there’s a wide range of colour options, and gelling agents are added to ensure what you’ve made doesn’t melt or droop when it’s being cured in the oven.

Before we answer the question ‘what can you make with polymer clay’, you need to know about conditioning. When the clay comes out of the packet, it’s usually quite hard and brittle, so it needs to be warmed up and made more pliable to work with.

By Hand: if you’re conditioning by hand, knead and stretch it like you would with pastry dough, and the natural oils and warmth of your hands will slowly soften the clay.

By Machine: You can condition your clay by running it through a suitable polymer clay machine which can often be found at craft stores. You should repeat the process until your polymer clay is soft enough to be used.

Polymer clay art encompasses lots of techniques and styles, from simple shapes and patterns to complex methods and mixed media projects. Its versatility allows you to experiment with anything you want, from jewellery and sculptures to wall art, fridge magnets, Christmas and Halloween decorations, buttons and beads, key rings to give out as fun gifts, plant pots and garden decorations, picture frames, or home decor accents. There are endless possibilities and you’re only limited by your imagination!

In this introduction to polymer clay art, one of the most important elements is the equipment you need. To get started with polymer clay modelling, all you need are a few basic tools. These include a smooth work surface, a blade for cutting the clay, a rolling pin or acrylic roller, and a set of sculpting tools for fine details.

Additionally, you need access to an oven or small toaster oven for baking the clay, as the low-temperature curing process is critical to achieving the clay’s final hardness.

With these simple tools, along with a bit of imagination, creativity and patience, you can start to explore the endless possibilities of polymer clay crafting.

Polymer clay crafting is easy and fun, but there are always a few precautions to take when you’re working with materials made from PVC and resins, as well as a hot oven. Here are a few do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

DO keep your clay cool when you’re not using it. If it gets warm, it can dry out and go a bit crumbly, which makes it very hard to work with.

DON’T ingest polymer clay.

DO use proper art tools to roll and cut your clay, and not rolling pins and knives you use to prepare and eat food.

DON’T make plates or bowls with the intention of using them to eat from. Polymer clay art should only be displayed and not used for everyday purposes.

DO wash your hands thoroughly after using polymer clay.

DON’T use things like spray paints, nail polish or glues on your polymer clay projects, they’ll disfigure your work and, depending on the product, can dissolve the clay.

DO keep a very close eye on the baking process. Your work should be baked at a low temperature. High heat can burn, discolour, or bubble your work and there’s a possibility the clay may release toxic fumes if the oven temperature is too high.

A vital element of understanding the question ‘what is polymer clay art’ is the baking process. Before you put the oven on, carefully read the instructions on the packet of clay, as the baking process for each brand or manufacturer will differ slightly, but here is a general overview –

• Temperature: You’ll need to check the packaging for exact guidelines, but usually polymer clay models are baked around 110°C to 135°C.
• Time: Again, you’ll need to check the guidelines, but a general rule of thumb is to bake your models for typically 15-30 minutes per six mm of thickness.
• Surface: Place your clay on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a ceramic tile to prevent sticking.
• Ventilation: Ensure the baking area is properly ventilated to avoid any fumes.
• Overbaking: Overbaking can cause discoloration or burning. Follow the time recommendations carefully.
• Underbaking: Underbaking will leave the clay soft and fragile. Ensure it’s baked long enough to fully cure.
• Cross-Contamination: If possible, use an oven dedicated to crafts or thoroughly clean your kitchen oven afterward to prevent contamination.
• Microwave: Avoid using the microwave to save time. Your models need dry heat to cure properly, and microwaving can cause them to melt, burn, and produce smoke, which may also damage your machine.
• Monitor: Always keep an eye on the oven while your models are curing and don’t let them touch the heat element. Ideally, place them on a middle or lower tray to stop the clay from getting too hot, too quickly.
• After Baking: When your models have been baked for enough time, turn the oven off and open the door. This will slow down the cooling process and prevent cracking if they’re cooled too quickly.
• Supervision: If children are helping with the polymer clay activity, ensure a responsible adult is always in charge and supervising at all times.

What is polymer clay crafting? It’s a remarkable and versatile medium that opens up a world of creative possibilities. With just a few basic tools and some imagination, you can create anything from basic buttons to stunning centrepieces. Hopefully, this introduction to polymer clay art will help you to start your crafting journey, unlocking your creativity and inspiring you to bring your artistic visions to life.