Polymer Clay Jewelry

stephl · Jul 21, 2012

Hi everyone!
I discovered crafting with polymer clay only a year ago, when I was searching for a new and interesting craft to learn. It's mostly a winter hobby for me, since I despise cold weather. It keeps me busy during those cold winter months here in Pa. I enjoy learning on my own, so I taught myself how to make polymer clay bracelets. I have started my own collection, and have sold a few on etsy. To be honest, I really haven't put that much effort into selling. I mostly create my pieces for fun. Have a peek. I would love feedback! Any ideas for me about new creations or how to improve upon current ones? I will not be insulted, so please tell me what you think.

stephl · Jul 21, 2012

Another view

Filigree · Jul 21, 2012

Very nice, Stephl. Have you looked up some of the how-to books on polymer clay? Lark Books has some, and so does Fire Mountain Gems. Nan Roche has an older book called 'The New Clay', I believe - it's still a great guideline for learning new tips and tricks. There's an artist called Luann Udell who can make polymer clay look just like ivory or bone. (http://www.luannudell.com/)

I haven't played as much with polymer clay as I'd like, but it does look fascinating.

Vespertilion · Jul 21, 2012

Came over from the Low Cost thread to see! Very pretty.

I don't know anything about polymer clay--how flexible is it? Do you need the chain to keep it on, or could you just make the strip of clay longer?

Filigree · Jul 22, 2012

I know some polymer clay jewelers use armatures of metal mesh when they're making bracelets, just to give the clay some structural support.

stephl · Jul 26, 2012

You could, but I like to attach a chain to keep it on your wrist. Polymer clay after it is baked and cured is semi-flexible but it can break if you bend it too much. Like another poster said, some people place the clay over mesh or a metal bracelet to help shape it. I don't. I don't think it is necessary.

Lady MacBeth · Jul 28, 2012

You've done a nice job, Stephl.

I'm curious, I heard that polymer clay is toxic and coats the oven when it is baked. Does anyone know if this is true?

frimble3 · Jul 28, 2012

Lady MacBeth said:
You've done a nice job, Stephl.

I'm curious, I heard that polymer clay is toxic and coats the oven when it is baked. Does anyone know if this is true?

Try this informative link: http://www.polymerclaycentral.com/cyclopedia/pc_safety_th.html

I've used it for dollhouse miniature items, and it doesn't 'coat' the oven. Cooking large pieces of meat coats the oven (in grease). And cleaning the oven with those chemical-laden cleaners, well, read the warning on those products.

AnnikaHTDC · Aug 17, 2012

Nice bracelet! I used to make polymer clay jewelry, but forced myself to stop because it was taking me away too much from my writing. It's great stuff though, so many creative possibilities.

Shadowflame · Aug 18, 2012

Lovely piece!

stephl · Sep 1, 2012

Yes, I have heard that also. I use a toaster oven for use only with the clay and in a well ventilated area. This the safe way of baking it.

Jaycinth · Sep 1, 2012

We've discovered the polymer clay and have been experimenting with making 'imitation stone' pendants. We've gotten a UV light for curing the gloss and are looking forward to using the PMC.

Has anyone had experience with it?

Polymer Clay Jewelry

stephl

figuring it all out

stephl

figuring it all out

Filigree

Mildly Disturbing

Vespertilion

Flying blind on a rocket cycle.

Filigree

Mildly Disturbing

stephl

figuring it all out

Lady MacBeth

Out, damn'd spot! out, I say.

frimble3

Heckuva good sport

AnnikaHTDC

Shadowflame

Gametrovert

stephl

figuring it all out

Jaycinth

Your Cuddly Sociopathic