New to Clay

[Former_Member]

I am very new to polymer (obviously haven't started selling anything of my polymer creations yet). I have been having two main issues I was hoping that someone could help me. I have been trying to make designs to go into bezels for pendants, but I want them to be secured so they don't crack or break. I have tried a "Satin" sealant and it just makes them look cheap. I also tried the poly bond and that did the same thing. I was wondering if there was any sealer that was completely clear and left them with the matte finish that the clay has.

Also, any tips on making pendant designs (not where you do the overlapping with multiple colors I haven't learned that yet). Designs as in trees etc, to make the back look presentable too without ruining the other side.

Thank you so so much for any help!!! I really appreciate your time =)

[Former_Member]

Hi Ivy, regarding your first question, I often use Renaissance Wax as a sealant after sanding as it gives a lovely satin sheen and does not look cheap. You can buy it from various outlets including eBay and Amazon if you Google it.

I am not entirely sure about your second question but maybe someone else can help. What I usually do with my Green Man brooches for example is lay the design onto a thin sheet of backing clay. Hope this helps somewhat.

[Former_Member]

Thank you for your help! You sand your polymer?? So much to learn!! hahaha. I looked up the wax it said its mostly used for copper? I will try it out though, anything will work better than what I have tried so far.

Sheet of clay backing? I will look that up.

Thank you again!!

[DandiBeadsCo]

I lay a clear texture sheet under my clay so a design is pressed onto the back too!

[Former_Member]

Thanks Sandra, I am going to try that. I saw those, but didn't like the designs much, but for the back I guess its not that big of a deal =)

I saw some of your items have a Matte finish on them, do you mind me asking if there is a certain one you use for them?

[Former_Member]

It sounds like a sealer wouldn't necessarily be needed for your pieces.. have you tried popping them out of the bezels and then gluing back in? That way they would be secure and you would keep the nice matte finish that clay naturally has. And yeah, sanding makes a world of difference. If you do seal without sanding it just seems to highlight any imperfections.

[Former_Member]

I know this doesnt answer your question but......I would go to your local library and get every book you can on polymer. There is so much to learn. there are also polymer groups on Facebook that have many talented people who are willing to share their info with you!

[Former_Member]

Rhoda, I do glue them in :) they are just
Somewhat 3-D so I am scared to sell them without a varnish.

Christina- unfortunately I have checked my library, my small town of 2 people apparently don't do many crafts because they didn't have much. I will checkout Facebook so I can learn some things, thanks!

Thanks all!

[Former_Member]

Try YouTube for some great tutorials. Just type polymer clay in the YouTube search bar. You will be amazed at the number of tutorials you will find.

[LeannaTenEyckeArt]

Varathane diamond glaze can be used and it comes in satin, it might have a bit of a shine to it but it can be baked after glazing to cure the glaze for extra durability. Although I think if the pieces are somewhat flat and secure in the bezels they wouldn't likely break unless hit very hard.

[Former_Member]

Thank you guys I really appreciate all the help! I got a few pendants done, I will post them soon to get opinions and critiques! :)