|
|
|
| How do I bake Polymer clay? |
| Baking is the process of heating the clay to make a finished piece. During baking, the temperature causes chemical changes in the clay, making it hard and strong. Polymer clay fires at low temperatures (below 300° Fahrenheit), so you don't need a special kiln - you can fire it in a kitchen oven. Polymer clay is different from other types of modeling clay in that it can be baked in your home oven at a low temperature, which then hardens and cures your creative creations so they'll be around indefinitely |
| Always bake your clay in a well-ventilated room. Working without proper ventilation can give you a headache, and it may even make you feel ill. Once the oven has been preheated to the correct temperature, place your finished projects inside on a baking sheet lined with cardstock or mat board to prevent shiny spots from developing on the clay surface. If baking a large piece, it may be necessary to prop it up and to drape a tent of aluminum foil over it to protect it from the heating element. Clay beads may be baked on a skewer. Always follow the manufacturers instructions regarding baking times and temperatures; generally speaking, most polymer clay projects are baked at 275° for 20-25 minutes. Baked clay can be re-baked as needed. Once baked, polymer clay may be wet-sanded to polish the surface. Sanding with progressively finer grades of paper as you proceed is the best way to produce a nice finish. Buffing tools may also be used on baked clay. Some artists paint a water-based varnish (matte or glossy) on the surface as well. |
|
|
|
|
|
