11 Things I Wish I Knew about Polymer Clay when I started

In this video I'll take you through 11 things I wish I knew before I started polymer clay. It is great for beginners, but may also include a couple of useful tips for polymer clay artists. Topics will include:
1. Using the right polymer clay for the job
2. Making your clay workable (conditioning, clay softener and leaching)
3. Getting rid of air bubbles and lint
4. Curing Your Clay Correctly
5. Finishing your pieces (sanding and sealants)
6. Mixing different clay brands
7. Burnishing your clay when using cutters
8. Using a Tissue Blade
9. Using a Pasta Machine
10. Different = Different (and that's ok)
11. WARNING: Polymer Clay is addictive!
All of the products in this video (apart from the pasta machine) are available on our website www.myclayco.com.au. You can purchase Marcato Atlas pasta machines from homewares stores and the Lucy Clay Machine from the Lucy Clay website.
If you have any questions about our video, or the making process, we'd love to help - just comment below :)
We’d love for you to like, share and subscribe for more fun and instructional videos!
You can also find us on …
Instagram: myclayco
Facebook: / myclayco.com.au
TikTok: TikTok.com/@myclayco
Pinterest: www.pinterest.com.au/myclayco
If you have any tutorial or create with me suggestions we’d love to hear from you! Contact us via our socials or email us at hello@myclayco.com.au
You can also subscribe to our newsletter via our website to get exclusive discounts, maker news, and product updates.
Thanks for watching and happy making!
The MyClayCo Team x

Пікірлер: 205

  • @bethkopf991
    @bethkopf991Ай бұрын

    I use my gloss tiles for the whole process. I run my clay through machine, lay it down on my clean gloss tile, put a piece of baking paper over it, roll it down to adhere the clay to the tile, remove paper, cut shape, peel off excess clay and when my tile is full to the brim of cut pieces, I pop it in the oven. No transferring the pieces or using a blade to remove them and then re-position on another tray. Because the clay is stuck down, there's never any curling, etc...The tile can handle high heat. The home oven is nuthin :) You can use smaller tiles for separate shapes/colours if you want. I've never had to adjust the oven temp due to the tile holding heat. Hope this helps

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    Ай бұрын

    Yes, I love not having to transfer pieces too and risk misshaping them! 😊

  • @tomhdg
    @tomhdg2 ай бұрын

    I put my opened clay in sandwich bags and into my front pockets for about half an hour. That is the warmest part of your body, so it works well.

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    2 ай бұрын

    Great tip!

  • @SICresinwrks
    @SICresinwrksАй бұрын

    Just got back into clay after about 10 years, just wanted to say thank you for this video, its well put together without nonsense filler just to stretch the video out.

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    Ай бұрын

    Thank you! I am not a fan of filler either! So this feedback makes me very happy, thank you ❤️

  • @nicolehawley912

    @nicolehawley912

    12 күн бұрын

    Agreed and same! If I had a tutorial like this 10yrs ago I probably wouldn't have put it down for so long 😅

  • @kellycarroll651
    @kellycarroll651Ай бұрын

    This may be a little TMI but when I’m planning to make something I usually take the colors I’m going to use and put them in my pockets or if I don’t have pockets that day I stick them in my bra (in baggies) and go about whatever I need to do for a half hour or so… when I’m ready to play with clay it’s all warmed up and much easier to condition and work with. Comes in handy and saves my hands and wrists from being overworked 😁

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    Ай бұрын

    Funnily that’s not the first time I’ve heard that 😅 Us polymer clay artists are definitely creative! ❤️

  • @SICresinwrks

    @SICresinwrks

    Ай бұрын

    My cat thinks she is a chicken and tries sitting on my art supplies while getting a project together, lets see if i can get her to sit on my baggies of clay 😂

  • @carolinacaceres1943

    @carolinacaceres1943

    20 күн бұрын

    Genial. Me gusta tu método. Estoy leyendo, viendo vídeos y documentándome para empezar. He ido comprando materiales y herramientas hace 8 meses. Me falta el horno.. pero ya casi comienzo

  • @TheCountryChandler2023
    @TheCountryChandler20233 сағат бұрын

    I’m just starting out and came across your video. Lots of great information so very glad I got to watch it. I’m planning on binge watching more of your videos. Thanks. A new subscriber here.

  • @kristineallison4787
    @kristineallison47872 ай бұрын

    This was great. Appreciate all the advice you give. Thank you

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    2 ай бұрын

    Thank you 🥰 Glad it was helpful!

  • @Enjoythepour
    @Enjoythepour2 ай бұрын

    I use a pasta roller on my kitchen aid. It’s wonderful ❤

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    2 ай бұрын

    I have seen people do this! Such a great idea, awesome tip!

  • @SICresinwrks

    @SICresinwrks

    Ай бұрын

    Im tempted to do it everytime 😂

  • @briandalucia6262
    @briandalucia6262Ай бұрын

    I’m so glad I had this video pop up on my recommendations. Great tips and answered some questions I’ve had. Thank you!

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    Ай бұрын

    That’s great, so glad it answered some questions for you!

  • @Yummicookie1979
    @Yummicookie19792 ай бұрын

    Testing your oven is a must! I had a huge issue with my pieces breaking when I first started. After testing my oven I found it was only getting up to 261 degrees when I had it set at 275.

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    2 ай бұрын

    Yes! It is so crazy how common it is and most of the time it’s an easy fix! So glad you got it sorted, it can be a frustrating issue 💕

  • @BvocalNet
    @BvocalNetАй бұрын

    Very helpful for this beginner -- THANKS!

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    Ай бұрын

    You're very welcome! ❤️

  • @katarzyna4555
    @katarzyna45554 күн бұрын

    Fantastic film!!! Very informative!!! Thank you so much!!!🥰🥰🥰

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    4 күн бұрын

    Thanks so much! ❤️ glad you found it helpful ☺️

  • @michaellinda3349
    @michaellinda33492 ай бұрын

    Thanks you so much. Awesome knowledge sharing ❤

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    2 ай бұрын

    Thank you 🥰 I’m really glad you liked it!

  • @willytony78
    @willytony78Ай бұрын

    I love how you store your scraps!!

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    Ай бұрын

    Thank you! We’ve tried a few different methods over the years and this one is a winner!

  • @baotoyomaster
    @baotoyomaster16 күн бұрын

    Thank you for sharing!!!! This is what I needed!!!

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    16 күн бұрын

    Yay! Our pleasure! ❤️

  • @nicolehawley912
    @nicolehawley91212 күн бұрын

    Thankyou! This is super helpful and the way you explained and edited is excellent 😊

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    12 күн бұрын

    Thank you! Glad you found it helpful 🥰

  • @karentriggs7272
    @karentriggs72722 ай бұрын

    Such a helpful video, thank you ❤

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    2 ай бұрын

    So glad it was helpful! 🥰

  • @Truth.illustrated
    @Truth.illustrated2 ай бұрын

    helpful advice! TY!

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    2 ай бұрын

    Glad it was helpful! 😊

  • @muttlesslove1647
    @muttlesslove16472 ай бұрын

    Thank you for all the USEFUL information. I am just getting into polymer clay and this video is going to be SO helpful.

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    2 ай бұрын

    Thank you so much!! 🥰

  • @azizcrew
    @azizcrew2 ай бұрын

    Thank you so much for all the great information. I am just starting out with PC and your video was very helpful!!

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    2 ай бұрын

    So glad you found it helpful! 🥰

  • @carolynmozzone412
    @carolynmozzone4122 ай бұрын

    That was great! Thank you!

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    2 ай бұрын

    You are so welcome!

  • @DocBree13
    @DocBree13Ай бұрын

    These were all so helpful - thank you! Subscribed

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    Ай бұрын

    So glad you found it helpful! Thanks for the sub 🥰

  • @jenniferpittsley5588
    @jenniferpittsley55882 ай бұрын

    Thank you so much!!

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    2 ай бұрын

    No problem! I hope it’s helpful ☺️❤️

  • @AnaTheWiseBanana
    @AnaTheWiseBananaАй бұрын

    Such a wonderful and useful video! Thank you so much! 🥰🙏🏼✨

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    Ай бұрын

    Thank you! So glad you thought so ☺️

  • @jader6769
    @jader676920 күн бұрын

    Super helpful, thank you!

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    20 күн бұрын

    My pleasure! ☺️

  • @kelliek4881
    @kelliek48812 ай бұрын

    Fantastic video! So much useful info! 😊

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    2 ай бұрын

    Thank you! So happy you thought so! ❤️

  • @dreamydesignsbyalia
    @dreamydesignsbyaliaАй бұрын

    Thank you for this video :) Very helpful 💕

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    Ай бұрын

    That’s great! Glad you found it helpful ☺️

  • @domimassou5457
    @domimassou54572 ай бұрын

    Thank you for sharing this video its very helpfull 👏 😊

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    2 ай бұрын

    My pleasure 😊 so glad you found it helpful!

  • @corteltube
    @corteltube2 ай бұрын

    Great video..thanks so much ☺️

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    2 ай бұрын

    Thank you, glad you liked it ☺️

  • @CatherineSummerfield
    @CatherineSummerfield2 күн бұрын

    THANK YOU SO MUCH. XX

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    2 күн бұрын

    Pleasure! ☺️ x

  • @anaschulz8084
    @anaschulz80842 ай бұрын

    Just subscribed! So informational and easy to follow. Thank you!

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    2 ай бұрын

    Thank you! Such lovely feedback 🥰

  • @anaschulz8084

    @anaschulz8084

    2 ай бұрын

    @@myclayco my pleasure!

  • @marniemarques
    @marniemarques18 күн бұрын

    Such an awesome video. Thank. you!

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    18 күн бұрын

    So glad you thought so, thank you 🥰

  • @MsMollisu
    @MsMollisu6 күн бұрын

    Love your video! 1:44 1:44 1:46 I’m a glass artist and am looking forward to integrating the clay and glass. Your tips are very helpful and I admire your art pieces.

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    6 күн бұрын

    Oh wow, sounds amazing! We’d love to see your work, drop your instagram or Facebook handle below if you have one!

  • @humlakullen
    @humlakullenАй бұрын

    Awesome tips! Thanks a bunch for putting this video together:-). I’m a newbie into this hobby.

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    Ай бұрын

    You’re very welcome! Polymer clay is so fun, I’m sure you will love it! 💕

  • @margaretmathis4775
    @margaretmathis47752 ай бұрын

    Excellent video❣️

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    2 ай бұрын

    Thank you 🤗

  • @Habichl
    @HabichlАй бұрын

    Lovely video, thank you so much!!! Will definitely follow your tips, thank you for sharing! (((:

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    Ай бұрын

    My pleasure! ❤️

  • @MistyGray41
    @MistyGray41Ай бұрын

    Great video full of helpful tips and very informative. One thing to consider is that background music is very distracting and is not required. Thanks for all the great tips.

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    Ай бұрын

    Thank you, and thank you for the feedback 😊

  • @sheadorris
    @sheadorris2 ай бұрын

    This is fantastic!!!! Thank you so much! Is there a certain thickness that is best on the pasta machine?

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    2 ай бұрын

    Thank you 🥰 If you are using an Atlas I normally have it on the 1 or 2 setting, otherwise for earrings aim for 2-3mm thick 😊

  • @MsSassySean
    @MsSassySean2 ай бұрын

    I'm great ready to get started. I really really needed this. Thank you very much! Hoping for a part 2.

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    2 ай бұрын

    My pleasure! We share a new video every week so hopefully our future ones will also be helpful ☺️

  • @CrozetMom
    @CrozetMom2 ай бұрын

    Great tips

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    2 ай бұрын

    Thank you ☺️

  • @AJohnsonsJewelry
    @AJohnsonsJewelry2 ай бұрын

    Great video! Very informative! New subscriber 🤗

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    2 ай бұрын

    Thanks so much! Appreciate the sub!

  • @ownsacat
    @ownsacatАй бұрын

    I use a cheap electric roaster to bake my clay. Works perfect, I can control the temp and it doesn't stink up the house. This is a great video. These are things you need to know when you start out. Sometimes even after you've been using clay a while.

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    Ай бұрын

    Thanks you, I thought it would be good to do a video with some of the lesser known tips! Yes, toaster ovens are a great option, good tip! 😊

  • @ownsacat

    @ownsacat

    Ай бұрын

    It's more a roaster oven. I had trouble with toaster ovens burning the clay. This is like an electric frying pan with a lid but deeper. Taller. It's like a box with a lid. I don't set things right on the bottom but put them on tiles like you use. I used to make Lasagna in this oven. Then I repurposed it for clay. I bake it on the porch so the fumes don't come in the house. I have asthma , so I have to be careful. Years ago it was only about 25 dollars. I checked and its about 59 dollars now on amazon. You make such cute pieces. Again, great video. :-)

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    Ай бұрын

    @@ownsacatI love how inventive polymer clay artists are, so cool that you’ve repurposed it this way! Thank you 🥰

  • @AliaHatchett
    @AliaHatchettАй бұрын

    great video ! thank you :)

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    Ай бұрын

    My pleasure! 🥰

  • @hippiechick3210
    @hippiechick32108 күн бұрын

    Great video! I picked up a few extra tips! I’ve only had to tent my pieces with foil if they were too close to the heating element. When I first started working with PC I found a small, used toaster oven online with dials for the temp so I could easily and quickly adjust the temperature if need be. It was wide, but rather short. It was much easier to foil tent than to constantly stare at the thermometers, predict how quickly the temp may rise, and adjust accordingly to prevent burning my pieces 😅 Now I’m working with one that can cook a medium sized turkey so I don’t have to tent them unless they’re very tall or I’m using both racks.

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    8 күн бұрын

    Thank you, glad you picked up some tips! Oh that would make sense that you need to tent it. A whole Turkey?! You can fit so many clay creations in there! 🥳

  • @bethmegansmith4642
    @bethmegansmith4642Ай бұрын

    UK new sub Love this Video . I have a Black Atlas got it 6 years ago ......Atles wellness 150 Black and chome . Happy crafting xxxxx

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    Ай бұрын

    Thank you! 🥰 Yes, the Atlas machines are so good for clay, I’ve had mine for years too and it’s never done me wrong! Xx

  • @bethmegansmith4642

    @bethmegansmith4642

    Ай бұрын

    @@myclayco🥰

  • @cheriekarley2479
    @cheriekarley2479Ай бұрын

    This is so helpful. I got a stack of clay all the tools pasta maker I think everything you need to get started then went to start and got to anxious to start so I packed it all up into a container and put it under my art table. This is giving me a bit more confidence to try again. Also does the clay have an expiry I think I may have opened one possibly two of the packets. I’d love any advice and I am subscribed. And it’s also great to see more Ozzy’s on YT. cheers 🇦🇺

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    Ай бұрын

    So glad you found it helpful ☺️ I totally understand, I actually also felt the same way when I started! So funny how things like that can make us nervous. Go watch our marble slab video - it’s an older video but a simple technique with great results and think it will help give you some confidence to jump in 😊 I’ve had clay for years and years that is still fine, just make sure you store it in a sealed container or bag and in a cool place. If you have any questions or need any help you are welcome to email us on DM us on our socials 😊

  • @cheriekarley2479

    @cheriekarley2479

    Ай бұрын

    @@myclayco thank you so very much. If you don’t mind I will DM you in a day or so. I do have a project in mind I just don’t know if it’s possible. I’ll look through your older videos and see if you’ve covered it first. Thank you ever so kindly for your help and reply. Have a great day and enjoy making your beautiful art work. Cheers 🇦🇺

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    Ай бұрын

    @@cheriekarley2479 Of course, always happy to help! And we love experimenting so may be able to help with your project :)

  • @juanitaogrady698
    @juanitaogrady6982 ай бұрын

    Such an informative video!! 👏 Thank you 🙏 I do have a question about making larger items with polymer clay…eg. Bowls to keep jewellery and trinkets in, large key rings, art printed on polymer clay, clay figurines, mini 3D cityscapes,, ornaments etc.. Is there a rule or guide around creating pieces with polymer clay from a strength point of view? How strong would they be? 😊🙏

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    2 ай бұрын

    Thanks so much 🥰 yes, each polymer clay has their own baking instructions but if you take Sculpey for example, theirs is 30 minutes per 6mm thickness. I don’t do much modelling but do make a lot of trinket dishes. Because they are always less than 6mm I just stick to my usual 30-40 minutes baking time. If you are ever unsure, bake it longer rather than shorter. So long as your oven temperature is right you won’t overbake it if you leave it in for a bit of extra time 😊

  • @momofmanda
    @momofmandaАй бұрын

    Your videos are great. You have a great personality for teaching. Thank you! I do have a question. I bought a pasta roller at either Michael's or Hobby Lobby. There's not a brand name on it. I think the rollers are not exactly parallel, so the clay rolls down in a crooked manner. Does anyone else have this problem with a generic pasta roller? Someone else commented in this thread that they use their KitchenAid. I might have to get that attachment.

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    Ай бұрын

    Thank you 🥰 Oh no, how frustrating! This gets discussed a lot on polymer clay forums and the general consensus is a lot of pasta machines don’t work quite so well with clay. The only one I can really recommend is the Atlas because I have used it for years and love it 😊

  • @pjshat
    @pjshatАй бұрын

    Great video! Thank you for sharing!

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    Ай бұрын

    Thank you! Pleasure!

  • @carakinsley
    @carakinsley3 күн бұрын

    Great Video, thanks for sharing your knowledge, Where about is your shop located?

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    3 күн бұрын

    Thank you! We’re located in Adelaide, Australia but do ship worldwide 😊🌏

  • @psychodrama15
    @psychodrama1510 күн бұрын

    Fantastic vid! Two questions: will a glass surface or Matte work as well as a glass tile? Also, how did you get the gold lines in the purple mandala trinket dish?! 😍

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    10 күн бұрын

    Thank you! A lot of polymer clay artists work on a glass surface, you will just have to transfer your pieces to a baking tray of some sort (tile can be put straight in the oven without moving your pieces). A matte surface can work, but if you are using small or imprint cutters I generally recommend a gloss one so the clay sticks to your surface, otherwise it will peel off into your cutters 😊 The gold lines on that trinket dish are done using a silkscreen and acrylic paint ☺️💕

  • @psychodrama15

    @psychodrama15

    9 күн бұрын

    @@myclayco thank you!! Silk screen makes sense! I use a glass surface for rolling and cutting, but you are right, I do have to transfer it to the Tile. I am going to roll and cut on the tile next time. I think that will minimize my shapes from being distorted when I try to transfer. Thanks!

  • @ownsacat
    @ownsacatАй бұрын

    In all the years I have worked with clay I have never once had it too soft out of the package. LOL. It was always hard and brutal. I mostly used fimo so that's probably why. Our store had mostly fimo and very little sculpty display.

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    Ай бұрын

    Oh interesting! I have only worked with Sculpey and Cernit but I actually bought some Fimo to try so I am interested to see how it compares!

  • @shinysunlight

    @shinysunlight

    2 күн бұрын

    I had soft clay, from Amazon kit, it was so soft it almost melted in my hand

  • @angelatapia3813
    @angelatapia3813Ай бұрын

    Hello, thank you for the tips. My daughter and I are going to buy a few things today to give it a go. Question what about earring hooks? Do you have a video that shows or can you advise what is the best kind to buy? brand?

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    Ай бұрын

    Our video next week is actually on putting dangle earrings together! What great timing! We are a little biased when it comes to findings because we stock a range that we have tried and tested. If you are in any polymer clay Facebook groups though you can also ask for recommendations there ☺️

  • @lynetteshorten6043
    @lynetteshorten60432 ай бұрын

    Great info. Unfortunately if I buy anything other than sculpy III I have to go online. I was under the impression that burnishing was rubbing over the top of the design wth paper between the clay and your fingers. Please advise

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    2 ай бұрын

    Thank you! Yes, that is also burnishing 😊 Burnishing just means essentially rubbing something down so the term can be used for a few different things 😊

  • @wendylamb8645
    @wendylamb8645Ай бұрын

    I’m just wondering if you sand and buff your pieces, or if you put a glaze on them. If you do sand, can you tell me, is it necessary to use so many different grits

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    Ай бұрын

    We normally just do a brief sand with 1200 grit (you may have to do more if your cutter blades are a little dull). Putting the extra effort into sanding and buffing your pieces can definitely elevate them, same as a glaze, but buffing and glazing aren’t necessary. Just depends on the look you’re after ☺️

  • @user-xl2iv2bw3e
    @user-xl2iv2bw3e11 күн бұрын

    When painting pieces. do you paint them before or after you bake?

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    11 күн бұрын

    You can actually do both! I find acrylic paint works best. If I’m using a silk screen and paint I always use them before baking. If I want to paint details on I generally do that afterwards (just in case I make a mistake and need to wipe it off 😅). I recommend sealing them after using paint 😊

  • @ItsVesperArt
    @ItsVesperArtАй бұрын

    I’ve recently gotten into using clay but have started with air dry clay. I really like it but it gets very messy very quickly, and I don’t like that it starts to dry while I’m still using it. I’d like to try polymer and see how that feels. I’d like something sorta smooth and bouncy to work with, if that makes sense? I’ll be making simple (ie not terribly detailed) figurines, keychains and magnets. Can you suggest a good clay to start with? They sell Fimo, Sculpey, Cernit, and Craftsmart near me, but I know there are different types within each brand. Price isn’t an issue, I’d rather just pick something I can really enjoy working with, and explore from there.

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    Ай бұрын

    Hehe I know what you mean, and I would probably describe polymer clay as smooth and bouncy once you have it conditioned. I would definitely try Sculpey first - it is a great beginners and professional clay. We love Sculpey Premo and Soufflé for both earrings and making miniatures ☺️

  • @allisonfiala9486
    @allisonfiala9486Ай бұрын

    Where can I purchase your products for example different cutters and carnitas coloured clays etc I am in Perth Western Australia

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    Ай бұрын

    Our website is www.myclayco.com.au 😊 we stock both Sculpey and Cernit clays and are based in Adelaide Australia ☺️

  • @allisonfiala9486

    @allisonfiala9486

    Ай бұрын

    Thanks it’s really good to find Aussies doing this stuff I love it

  • @mintendogaming
    @mintendogamingАй бұрын

    do you need a pasta roller or is it best to start without one and buy one later on?

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    Ай бұрын

    You definitely don’t need a pasta roller to start, in fact I think I was working with clay for a good year before I got a pasta machine. I would start without one and if you find you love it then think about investing in one. They are definitely worth the investment though, it makes it more enjoyable because it’s so easy to condition your clay!

  • @shinysunlight
    @shinysunlight2 күн бұрын

    I found that you actually cannot leave your clay in the oven for too long, not to mention hours as you said. My clay will burn and produce smoke if it’s left there for a longer than needed.

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    2 күн бұрын

    Oh interesting! Perhaps it’s the type of oven, I’ve only used normal ovens but I know some people have said that toaster ovens can be a bit more fickle. Perhaps that is why!

  • @artcheryl
    @artcherylАй бұрын

    Thanks for sharing this! I didn't know polymer clay was flexible! Mine always seem brittle and I've actually cracked some when I tried to bend them, despite baking for the recommended time at the recommended temperature with an oven thermometer! Also, wondering if you have tips on how to stop polymer clay from cracking in the oven? I've tried making little cube-shaped figurines and they always crack in the oven. 😢

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    Ай бұрын

    Hmmm what type of clay are you using? With the cubes, I’m wondering if the thickness of the clay is the issue. How big are the cubes? If they’re big enough, try filling them with alfoil 😊

  • @artcheryl

    @artcheryl

    Ай бұрын

    I'm using Sculpey III. The cubes are approximately 1.5cm. Hmm, haven't tried filling them with aluminum foil as it seems harder to make them smooth but I guess I should try? 😅

  • @hippiechick3210

    @hippiechick3210

    8 күн бұрын

    If you’re using Sculpey III that’s probably why, sadly. I don’t prefer that line of clay for anything. I always end up very disappointed after spending so much time and energy on my project. I’ve really enjoyed working with Fimo. Sculpey Premo I still have an abundance of and it’s not bad at all. I like the texture of the Soufflé, but I only bought one to try and I haven’t worked with it enough to give a fair review, although it seems like most PC artists seem to really enjoy it. I’ve never tried Cernit, but I really want to! I’ve seen a lot of not-so-great reviews about the DAS Smart brand so I won’t be trying that anytime soon. My suggestion would be to pick one up of a couple brands, or watch some reviews of the different brands and use a coupon for one of those multi packs of a different brand because everything you listed sounds very classic of Sculpey III.

  • @artcheryl

    @artcheryl

    8 күн бұрын

    @@hippiechick3210 thanks for sharing! It hadn't occurred to me that it could be the clay, as I thought it had something to do with my newbie skills 😅 I hadn't thought of trying clay from other brands as this is the one that I find most often at stores around here. Will look for others! Thanks a lot!

  • @hippiechick3210

    @hippiechick3210

    8 күн бұрын

    @@artcheryl you’re welcome! Don’t be so quick to doubt yourself! Polymer clay is a very forgiving medium to work with… IF you have a a decent quality starting clay to begin with! I’m honestly surprised Sculpey III is still as readily available as it is and about the same price range overall. I don’t think I’ve ever spoken to, read, or watched anyone that actually preferred it. It seems to be the throwaway line of clay. Like to mix with clay that’s too soft, to get a very specific shade, they bought it by mistake, they let the kids play with it, it’s good scrap, or something along those lines. I’d love to meet some people who actually *do* prefer Sculpey III and pick their brains a little. Just to see what they make and what aspects they really enjoy about it. Maybe there’s some wild secret about it. I’ve only had luck when mixing it 🤷🏻‍♀️

  • @NerineMartin
    @NerineMartinАй бұрын

    I've purchased many clay canes that have stunning patterns but some are quite hard. How do I condition them without distorting the patterns?

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    Ай бұрын

    I haven’t done much caning but I usually just warm it up a little and slowly reduce it a bit. I have heard of people putting a little clay softener around it and letting it sit for a bit but I’ve never tried it!

  • @westausbel3018

    @westausbel3018

    Ай бұрын

    Warm them up a little and then some gentle small twisting movements, they’ll slowly become more supple. The warmth of your hands will help. Take it slow

  • @urskaspan4598
    @urskaspan459827 күн бұрын

    Is FIMO clay okay for jewelery?

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    27 күн бұрын

    Yes! A lot of polymer clay artists use FIMO 😊

  • @NewmNetwork
    @NewmNetwork10 күн бұрын

    There are so many earring makers everywhere! I search for polymer artists and all I fin are earring makers! It’s just flooded!

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    10 күн бұрын

    I think it’s because polymer clay is such a great clay for earring making. Are you looking for other content? Like modelling?

  • @virginiasmith5371
    @virginiasmith537113 күн бұрын

    What depth should the clay be for making book markers?

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    13 күн бұрын

    We make them quite thin, normally around 1.5mm 😊

  • @virginiasmith5371

    @virginiasmith5371

    13 күн бұрын

    @@myclayco Thank you!

  • @nicolehawley912
    @nicolehawley91212 күн бұрын

    Came here because I found some 7-10yr old clay (good ol' wardrobe cleanout) that was solid and I was ready to give up on it, I grated it and used some softener and reconditioned by kneeding it, I reckon I'll get a pasta machine for the other 30 blocks haha 😂 How hard can the clay be and still run through the machine? Or does that depend of quality of the machine?

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    12 күн бұрын

    Haha, oh yes, I’d definitely be getting out the pasta machine for that! I would add some softener and hand condition until you can get it to combine, then run it through the pasta machine. If it’s too brittle it won’t condition at all and just crumble as you try put it through (making a big mess!). Hopefully you can bring it back to life!

  • @TheUnofficialMaker
    @TheUnofficialMakerАй бұрын

    you are an excellent presenter.

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    Ай бұрын

    Oh thank you so much 🥰

  • @monicam9928
    @monicam99282 ай бұрын

    I didn't understand how many minutes it is best to cook Sculpey Premo, Sculpey Souffle and Cernit for to have an elastic and flexible dough. 130° for how many minutes?😊

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    2 ай бұрын

    If you are making earrings you should bake it for a minimum of 30 minutes. If it’s thicker than earrings you may need to bake it longer 😊

  • @katyrussell4698
    @katyrussell469828 күн бұрын

    Can i use clear nail varnish?

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    28 күн бұрын

    Best to stay away from nail varnish - it applies ok but can get sticky after time 😊 if you’re looking for something simple and brush on try Sculpey glaze 😊

  • @oleia78
    @oleia782 ай бұрын

    Thank you, all these tips come in so useful. I had not thought of testing my oven, I’ll do that! Also, have you tried different types of oven (electric vs gas)? And finally, Do you bake your clay in the same oven you bake your food? Thank you!!!

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    2 ай бұрын

    My pleasure! Yep, I’ve used both gas and electric ovens. I’d say there’s minimal difference, maybe only that the gas ones I’ve had have run slightly warmer 🤔 but it was maybe just my ovens! Yes, when at home I bake in the same oven we bake our food in. Some polymer clay artists prefer to use a separate toaster oven but I never have 😊

  • @teresalegum4049

    @teresalegum4049

    2 ай бұрын

    I use a polymer clay small baking oven you can purchase at Walmart or hobby lobby. I use my oven for food only

  • @oleia78

    @oleia78

    2 ай бұрын

    @@myclayco thank you so much, this helped me a lot 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼

  • @oleia78

    @oleia78

    2 ай бұрын

    @@teresalegum4049 I agree! I also prefer to use separate ovens. I got a small one from Amazon and used it for the first time yesterday 🥳. Thank you for your reply 🙏🏼🤗

  • @jennawolf9873
    @jennawolf9873Ай бұрын

    ❤❤❤

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    Ай бұрын

    🥰🥰🥰

  • @kaitlyntielemans8358
    @kaitlyntielemans83582 ай бұрын

    Super curious if you have any experience with fimo? I know you mentioned baking all at 275 and you haven't had issues but I just can't get fino to bake properly 😢 any advice?

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    2 ай бұрын

    I haven’t used Fimo, sorry, so can’t give you any specific advice. Is the issue that it’s brittle after baking? I have actually recently bought some Fimo to try but just haven’t gotten to it yet!

  • @Yummicookie1979

    @Yummicookie1979

    2 ай бұрын

    I have used a lot of Fimo over the years and have never had any issues with it myself. What she said in the video about testing your oven is important. When I first started I had issues with my pieces breaking and found my oven temp was actually only heating to 261 degrees when it was set at 275. Some artists say baking your pieces on ceramic tile makes a difference but I have never noticed one myself. Hope all goes well!😊❤

  • @Reynaaj
    @Reynaaj6 күн бұрын

    So after you bake it, then you paint. after you paint do you bake again or just let it dry? Then After the sealant do you let it dry or bake it? lol 😅

  • @Reynaaj

    @Reynaaj

    6 күн бұрын

    And what sand paper do you use?

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    6 күн бұрын

    So you can use paint before or after baking your clay. If you use paint after baking, I normally let it dry and then seal it. A lot of makers I know like to bake it again to “set it” so it won’t do any harm giving it a little rebake if you want to (I have had some brands of paint that do change colour very slightly when baked so just be aware of that 😊)

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    6 күн бұрын

    We don’t do much sanding, just normally a quick rub around the edges. We just use sandpaper from Bunnings and our preferred grit is 1200 because it’s very fine ☺️

  • @Reynaaj

    @Reynaaj

    5 күн бұрын

    @@myclayco thank you!!! 🙏🏼

  • @BrendaFaye
    @BrendaFaye2 ай бұрын

    Can you talk about Cernit? I find it very difficult to work with. I haven’t been lucky to get past the conditioning stage except on 2 packs. Otherwise it’s extremely brittle and completely falls apart. I’ve tried warming it and that solution to soften it up. So I’ve returned a lot back to the store and thrown a lot a way. I’m at my wits end with Cernit. Thanks

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    Ай бұрын

    I get such mixed reviews of Cernit! Some people say it’s too soft to work with and other say it’s hard and brittle. I definitely find Cernit firmer that Sculpey most of the time (every now and then I get a super soft translucent). I almost always condition Cernit using a pasta machine because it’s firmer. Otherwise, have you tried the bashing technique I mentioned to get it going? It sounds ridiculous but it totally works! We’re planning a Cernit video to explain the range in the next month so I will have a think about some Cernit tips and see what else I can come up with 😊

  • @BrendaFaye

    @BrendaFaye

    Ай бұрын

    @@myclayco I haven’t tried the bashing because it’s all crumpled up but I guess I could and hope it doesn’t fly all over the place. I appreciate anything that you can come up with. Thank you so much for responding.

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    Ай бұрын

    @@BrendaFayeif it’s crumpling, put it in a zip lock sandwich bag with a little clay softener and bash it!

  • @BrendaFaye

    @BrendaFaye

    Ай бұрын

    @@myclayco I’ll try it

  • @ZebraChanda
    @ZebraChandaКүн бұрын

    What's a tissue blade? It looks like a thin metal ruler?

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    Күн бұрын

    It’s a super thin blade - so think of a craft knife but the long version 😊

  • @kyriestone5850
    @kyriestone5850Ай бұрын

    are you not supposed to wet the clay??

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    Ай бұрын

    Polymer clay is a little different to some other clays out there and you don’t wet it. It doesn’t really like water 😊

  • @NickyaMurphy
    @NickyaMurphyАй бұрын

    Ceramic tiles can go straight in the oven and they are so cheap.

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    Ай бұрын

    Yes! I love them for both those reasons!

  • @leahrowden3939
    @leahrowden3939Ай бұрын

    Hi. I’m just wondering: Where do you live?

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    Ай бұрын

    We are located in Adelaide, Australia 😊

  • @leahrowden3939

    @leahrowden3939

    Ай бұрын

    @@myclayco Really?

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    Ай бұрын

    Really truly ☺️

  • @leahrowden3939

    @leahrowden3939

    Ай бұрын

    @@myclayco I didn’t know that.

  • @westausbel3018

    @westausbel3018

    Ай бұрын

    I’m in Western Australia but spent a lot of time visiting Adelaide as my Dad lived there. I actually miss it and remember all the shops and streets, it’s beautiful there. Lol. Anyway @myclayco it’s nice to see Aussie video channels.

  • @paisleyafroart6125
    @paisleyafroart6125Ай бұрын

    You should also buy a toaster oven dedicated to only the clay. The chemicals emitted from your clay while baking can stay in your oven and can get into your edible items that you are cooking and baking.

  • @Kathleenkiroho

    @Kathleenkiroho

    Ай бұрын

    Actually this is factually incorrect

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    Ай бұрын

    Polymer Clay is non-toxic but I understand you’re concerned. QToaster ovens are a great option if you are not comfortable using your everyday oven 😊

  • @Mr.Monster1313
    @Mr.Monster1313Ай бұрын

    Are you a Kiwi ?

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    Ай бұрын

    Aussie ☺️🇦🇺

  • @cheese7119
    @cheese7119Ай бұрын

    Why is clay so expensive... 😢

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    Ай бұрын

    Thank goodness you only need a small amount for each project 😅

  • @cheese7119

    @cheese7119

    Ай бұрын

    @@myclayco yeah...but I wanted to make canes and then beads 😔 but it's better if I order them online-

  • @leggs0312
    @leggs0312Ай бұрын

    Who the heck takes their earrings and bends them?

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    Ай бұрын

    Haha yes it might seem a little odd 😅 We don’t bend all our earrings, but it’s really important to check that your clay is cured properly otherwise the earrings you’ve worked so hard on can break 😊

  • @allisonfiala9486
    @allisonfiala9486Ай бұрын

    Sorry cernit clays

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    Ай бұрын

    😊

  • @KumaKonda
    @KumaKonda2 ай бұрын

    How do you get so much clay? Rich parents or Political/[...] promotion?

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    2 ай бұрын

    Haha not rich parents unfortunately 😂 we’re a small family business that supplies polymer clay artists 😊

  • @KumaKonda

    @KumaKonda

    2 ай бұрын

    @@myclaycoPolitics/{...} then?

  • @jaxfox7181

    @jaxfox7181

    Ай бұрын

    What a crappy comment! If you can’t be nice then say nothing ☹️

  • @myclayco

    @myclayco

    Ай бұрын

    @@jaxfox7181🥰😘