Expert: Leisha Hiester - 12/26/2010

Question
Hello, I was just wondering the basics on how to use polymer clay. I'm interested in making necklaces out of this material. I'd like to know the average cost of it, how you form things out of it, how to make certain colors and whatnot. It'd be greatly appreciated :)

Answer
Dear A.,

I haven't worked with polymer much. It is very different from clay, however there are loads of information out there about it. You can usually locate it at a craft store like Michael's, JoAnn Fabrics or Hobby Lobby type store. Often, they have free instructional sheets that come with it. There are also books available there. I picked up one from North Light Books http://www.northlightshop.com/

It is much less expensive than clay. The tools needed are simple. The colors are endless and options too. It's very versatile, can be sculpted, molded then baked. The end products can be sanded, painted, dyed or carved, added to and even re-baked.

I highly recommend an investment in a 'how to' book. If you can't afford one, there are numerous available online and in the library too. Hope this helps.

Leisha