Polymer clay is a fun and beginner friendly material to work with. Many people start using polymer clay to make jewelry, small sculptures, decorative pieces or miniature items. One of the reasons this hobby is so popular is because you do not need many tools to get started.
If you are new to polymer clay, a few basic supplies are enough to begin creating at home. Below you will find the essential polymer clay tools every beginner should have.
Polymer Clay
The first thing you need is of course polymer clay itself. Popular brands include Fimo, Sculpey and Cernit. Polymer clay stays soft while you are working with it and only hardens after baking it in a normal home oven.
Polymer clay comes in many different colors. You can use the colors as they are or mix them together to create your own shades.
This is the ideal starterkit on amazon.
A Smooth Work Surface
A good work surface makes working with polymer clay much easier. Many people use a ceramic tile, a glass plate or an acrylic sheet. These surfaces are smooth, easy to clean and prevent the clay from sticking too much.
A ceramic tile is especially practical because you can place it directly in the oven with your clay creation on top. Or just use this cutting mat as it is suitable for every craft.
A Roller for Flattening Clay
When working with polymer clay you often need to roll the clay flat. An acrylic roller is commonly used because it creates an even surface and does not stick to the clay.
If you are just starting with polymer clay, a smooth glass bottle can also work as a simple alternative.
This all-in-one kit is perfect!
Cutting Tools
Cutting tools help you shape polymer clay and create clean edges. A simple craft knife works well for cutting and trimming clay. Many polymer clay artists also use shape cutters when making earrings or decorative pieces.
For small details a needle tool or a pin can be very helpful.
Texture Tools
Adding texture is one of the most creative parts of working with polymer clay. Texture sheets, stamps and rollers can create interesting patterns in the clay.
You can also experiment with everyday objects such as lace, leaves or fabric to press patterns into the clay.
An Oven for Baking Polymer Clay
Polymer clay hardens by baking it in a normal kitchen oven. Most polymer clays bake at around 110 to 130 degrees Celsius, but it is always important to check the instructions on the package.
An oven thermometer can help you keep the temperature accurate so your polymer clay pieces bake properly.
Getting Started with Polymer Clay
Starting with polymer clay does not require a big investment. With a few basic polymer clay tools such as clay, a smooth work surface, a roller and simple cutting tools you can already make beautiful handmade creations.
As you continue exploring polymer clay you may want to expand your tools, but creativity and experimentation are always the most important ingredients.
