Looking at the colorful exquisite jewelry in the photo, it can be hard to believe that they are made of polymer clay. The unique properties of this material make it possible to simulate almost any texture, be it stone, wood, metal or leather.
Polymer with special effects
Keeping in mind the growing demand, manufacturers are producing more and more different grades of polymer clay. There is clay with a pearl effect for creating beads and decoration, plastic, which after baking does not differ much from iron or silver, as well as a completely transparent mass to simulate glass.
Thermal clay - another name for this material, now occupies a leading position in the handmade jewelry market. Flowers of stunning realism can be made from polymer clay and used to create jewelry. Hairpins, headbands, necklaces and earrings sculpted from thermic clay are very light and durable.
The use of polymer clay in needlework
In addition to polymer clay jewelry, you can make magnets, key rings, figurines and even dolls. The principle of operation is very similar to modeling from plasticine, the clay must be kneaded in your hands so that it becomes plastic. The difference is that plasticine always remains soft, and after heat treatment, clay becomes as strong as stone and acquires a glossy shine.
It is very convenient to create bases for decoupage from thermoplastic, you no longer need to depend on the manufacturers of blanks, you can mold a heart for a pendant or a photo frame with your own hands. After baking, the surface of the plastic will become perfectly smooth, as required for decoupage.
You can find application for polymer clay and in scrapbooking: original album covers, volumetric elements for compositions and unique stamps will add variety to this type of needlework.
Polymer clay is also suitable for decorating dishes, vases, caskets. But in no case should you use polymer clay dishes for cooking or serving food. Thermoplastics are quite toxic and can be hazardous to health.
A valuable assistant for designers and artists
The skills of working with polymer clay will also come in handy for those who sew, knit or roll clothes. Original accessories, buckles, buttons of any shape and color will decorate and complement the design of things. In addition, the buttons can be painted with acrylic paints and varnished, the drawing will not fade or rub off, clothes can be washed without stripping the decor.
Polymer clay dolls are as beautiful as porcelain dolls, but much more durable. Translucent thermic clay very faithfully imitates human skin, this type of plastic is convenient to tint and paint. To remove excess gloss, the pupae are covered with a special matte varnish.
A ring with a huge stone may weigh only a few grams, but no one will guess that the stone is actually fake. Each thing made of polymer clay is unique and inimitable, resourceful craftsmen are increasingly replacing natural materials with plastic.
