The process of "drying" wet polymer clay is actually a process of curing through baking. Polymer clay, unlike natural clay, does not dry in the air. Instead, it requires heat to harden. Here's how you properly cure your polymer clay project:
Baking Polymer Clay
- Preparation: Ensure your polymer clay project is completely finished, with all desired shaping, texturing, and detailing completed.
- Oven Type: Use a conventional oven or a toaster oven for baking.
- Temperature: Bake your clay at 120-130 degrees Celsius (248-266 degrees Fahrenheit).
- Baking Time: The rule of thumb for baking time is based on the thickness of your clay:
- For every 6mm of clay thickness, bake for 30 minutes.
- Example: If your clay piece is 12mm thick, bake it for 60 minutes.
Step-by-Step Baking Guide
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Preheat your oven to 120-130 degrees Celsius (248-266 degrees Fahrenheit). |
| 2 | Place your finished polymer clay project on a baking sheet or oven-safe surface. You can also use parchment paper to prevent sticking. |
| 3 | Bake for the appropriate time based on the clay's thickness, as mentioned previously. |
| 4 | Allow the clay to cool completely inside the oven before handling. |
Important Notes
- Avoid Under-Baking: Under-baked clay can be brittle and prone to breaking.
- Avoid Over-Baking: Over-baking may cause discoloration or burning.
- Thermometers: Use an oven thermometer to ensure the temperature is accurate because oven temperatures can fluctuate.
- Ventilation: Ensure your kitchen has adequate ventilation when baking polymer clay.
- Cooling: Do not try to cool the clay quickly; let it cool down inside the oven to help prevent cracks.
Polymer clay does not air dry; it cures through baking at a specific temperature and for a duration based on its thickness.
