Transferring designs onto polymer clay is a creative way to add images, patterns, or text to your projects. One common method involves using paper with a design printed on it and rubbing it onto the clay surface.
Here's a simple method for doing transfers on polymer clay:
Preparing for Your Transfer
Before you start, ensure your polymer clay is properly conditioned – meaning it's soft, pliable, and ready to work with. Roll or shape your clay to the desired thickness and size for your project.
You will also need your chosen design printed on a suitable type of paper (often laser prints work best for this rubbing method).
The Transfer Process
This method relies on pressing the design onto the clay, often using heat and pressure generated by rubbing, to lift the image from the paper and adhere it to the clay surface.
Here are the steps:
- Position Your Design: Place the paper with the design face down onto your conditioned clay. Carefully align it in the exact position where you want the image to appear on your clay piece.
- Begin Adhering: Using your finger, gently rub the back of the paper onto your clay. This initial rubbing helps the paper and the design start to adhere to the clay surface.
- Ensure Full Adhesion: To make sure the design is adhering well across the entire image, you can also use a roller. Gently rub the roller over the back of the paper in a circular motion. This applies even pressure, helping to transfer the design effectively.
- Check the Transfer: Once you feel the design has been sufficiently rubbed onto the clay, you can carefully peel away the paper. The image should be left behind on the clay surface.
- Tip: The type of paper and the ink used for the design can affect the transfer quality. Experiment with different papers (like copy paper, photo paper, or special transfer papers) and print types (like laser or inkjet) to find what works best for your specific project and the desired effect.
After Transfer
After the transfer is complete, you can continue working with your clay piece – cutting it, shaping it, or adding other embellishments. Remember that the transferred image is delicate until the clay is cured by baking according to the manufacturer's instructions. Baking will set the clay and make the transfer permanent.
This rubbing technique is a fundamental way to incorporate detailed designs into your polymer clay creations, adding a unique touch to jewelry, sculptures, and decorative items.
