Question about coating your claywork - Gloss?

[Former_Member]

I have a question about claymaking.
I have made charms out of clay for earrings, they're super cute, but have fingerprints and are not glossy. A friend of mine makes similar items out of clay, and she has a VERY THICK coat of gloss over her items, and it makes it look very professional and smooth. She told me that it was just something she can dip her piece into, let dry, and viola!
When i asked her where she got it, and what it was, she said it was just something she picked up at joanns/michaels. I spent hours at the crafts store and bought several items, but none seem to be working out.
I bought ModPodge, or whatever that item is called/spelled. I dipped my claywork into it, and it looked PERFECT. Exactly the look i was going for..... but after a few days of sitting, the modpodge melted off of it, and adhered my claywork to the table it was sitting on. disaster! I've also tried a clear coat spray, but it wasn't the look i was going for. I have tried the brush on clear... i think it was a cheap resin of some sort? that didn't work out either.
What products do you use to give your claywork the jewelry-quality gloss? where can i get it? what is the brand name? i need to know exacts, so i can go buy it!!

[NatashaPerkinsArt]

I use fimo gloss varnish.. also i have used a faux glaze from hobbycraft UK too.

[Former_Member]

I think what she is using is called Triple Thick by Deco Art. From experience, I do not recommend shaking or stirring this product, as it will create permanent bubbles in your finished work. Otherwise, this is the best that I have found....and I love it.

Stay away from the gloss varnishes, as they become quite sticky and tacky to the touch after about 6 months when they react to the chemicals in the polymer.

Hope this helps!!

[SoUglyitsCuteCrafts]

I don't make jewelry but for small gloss areas on my creatures I use layers of clear nail polish

[Former_Member]

I use Triple Thick - it is INCREDIBLE. Smells kind of bad when applied, though.

[Former_Member]

I use triple thick glaze gloss :) but any type of glaze will work :)

[Former_Member]

i use sculpey glaze i got it at michaels in the polymer clay section :)

[Former_Member]

I use Triple Thick. Try applying it with a soft paintbrush in multiple layers. When I apply too much at once, it doesn't harden all the way. Also, try stirring it in a cup or something before using it, it helps it harden. I never worked for me until I stirred it. Good luck!