I have been creating tumblers for a little over 4 years and while I've had experience with ceramics, working with tumblers and clay has been a different journey. Here are some of the most important things I've learned when working with clay. Not only are these tips and tricks but these are what shaped and changed the way I create!
- Sculpture Wire/ Craft Wire, Foil and Masking Tape for 3D Tumbler Cups
The most important thing that I learned and that I still use is how to build structures with wire, foil and masking tape prior to applying clay. Wire can be used to help build lengthy structures, along with providing stability. I also used foil in the same way, but the difference is that it helps with the volume of structures, so you’d use it to build up to a certain volume. Masking tape is good to use with air dry clay! You’d create a structure with foil, make it smoother with masking tape and then apply your air-dry clay over it. Wire and foil are amazing to use with polymer clay as those can go in the oven.
2. Sculpting/ Clay Tools
The second important thing I learned while working with clay is that your tools matter! Having the correct tools will make sculpting easier along with being able to create textures and details needed! There’s a variety of tools you could use! I’d recommend getting quite literally all handheld clay tools, an extruder and investing in a clay conditioning machine as that’ll make it easier to work with your clay.
3. Making Polymer Clay Flat and Smooth
Another great trick I learned is how to make polymer clay surfaces flat and smooth. Rubbing alcohol is great for this! Not only does it create a smooth surface when you rub it on using a soft brush or cotton swab, but it also takes away any imperfections such as dust and fingerprints. While some recommend 70% alcohol, 90-99% gives smoother results. There is some caution to follow with this though! You do not want to over soak as it could dissolve the clay. I’ve also used baby wipes for minor smoothing and that works well too!
4. Making Air-Dry Clay Flat and Smooth
The last great tip I can give that I learned is how to make air-dry clay flat and smooth! This trick is extremely easy! All you need is water and a sponge! Sometimes your fingers/ hands are even ok! Apply the water where needed and begin to smooth it down. Make sure to not over saturate as the clay can become harder to manipulate and control.
I hope that these tips and tricks that I learned over the years help! While some are simple and easy they give such huge results!
Sasha Schnee
