Make Your Own Polymer Clay Beads

If you like to make your own necklaces and bracelets and love wearing unique pendants or earrings

, then you should definitely try making your own polymer clay jewelry. The great thing about polymer clay is that you can create any kind of bead you'd like--in any color, shape, or size. You can use the clay as it is or mix the colors together for fun combinations. Some polymer clay comes in a metallic color and will look like metal once it's dry. You can cut beads into sections and pair them with other colors to make striped patterns. Mix the colors together to create swirls, or paint a design on the beads after they're baked. The sky's the limit to your creativity. And it's easy to do; you can make the beads at home and bake them in your own oven.

To get started, first go to a craft store and purchase the clay in the colors you want. You'll also need to buy the wire and clasps for your necklace, bracelet, and/or earrings. If you don't have a brayer (acrylic rolling pin), needle nosed pliers, a sewing needle, sandpaper, a soft cloth, floor polish or clay lacquer, a piece of Sytrofoam, and/or acrylic paint, you'll want to acquire those items as well.

You'll need to warm the clay in order to make it malleable. Put it in your pocket, hold it in your hands, or lay it in the sun for five minutes. Don't put it in the microwave. Once it's warm, knead the clay like dough. Roll it on a hard nonstick surface (not wood--the clay will stain) with the brayer. Putting down wax paper first is a good idea. Roll the clay on both sides, then fold it in half and roll both sides again. Do this several times until the clay is very flexible. If you want, run it through a pasta machine. (Note: pasta machine should not be used for food afterward.)

Break off pieces of the clay and create your beads, mixing the colors according to your preference. When the beads are finished, place them in the fridge for fifteen minutes. This will make them stiff so it's easier to poke a hole with a sewing needle. Bake the clay according the package's instructions. Sand the beads with wet sandpaper after they have been baked. Polish with the soft cloth, and finally, paint (if you want) and apply the finish. Now you can put together your jewelry!

Polymer necklaces and earrings are not only unique, they're also fun and easy to do yourself.

by: Art Gib

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