Chununga Tree

When you use PMC or Art Clay it is important to work in an environment which helps prevent the clay from drying too quickly whilst working.  Make sure you work in a draught free environment, not to close to central heating and out of direct sunlight.

Work on a mat that does not absorb moisture from the clay such as plastic sheet, acrylic, teflon sheet, glass or tile.  Your tools for working must also be the same, for example no wooden tools.  Use a plastic or acrylic roller. Also use an oil on your hands to prevent moisture being taken from the clay, such as olive oil, natural hand balm or our clay balm.

To create an even thickness when rolling the clay create guides or buy ready made ones, place them on your mat and roll the clay in between them to ensure an even thickness and that you do not roll the clay too thin.

Cut the clay with a craft knife, ultra clay pick or clay cutters to create different shapes.  Textures can be applied from many sources such as; rubber stamps, ready made texture sheets, household items, lace, nature and many more.

Make sure you you wrap the unused bits of clay tightly in some cling film and place back in it's packet.  If not using the opened clay for awhile store it in an airtight container.  Tip; place a damp piece of material in the box to keep the atmosphere moist and then store in a cool, dark place.

Don't forget to add a hole not too close to edge if you need to hang your creation, this can be done simply using a thin drinking straw!

Your item then needs to be fully dried before firing, this is especially important when torch firing as such quick direct heat will result in bubbles which will ruin your work.  Either air dry for 24 hours or speed up the process by placing in a low oven between 100-150C for at least 30 minutes.  Other methods include, a hot plate, food dehydrator or even an empty slow cooker!  Do not use a heat gun as this will tend to dry the clay too quickly on the outside and trap moisture on the inside - slowly does it!

When the clay is fully dry or "leather hard" it is ready to refine.  You will know when it is ready as there will be no bend in the clay or place it on a mirror - if it leaves no moisture mark is is fully dry.

Use fine sanding pads or fine wet & dry sanding sheets to take off any sharp edges or smooth non textured areas.  Fill in any gaps with "slip" - you can make this by collecting the dust from sanding and mix a little water to create a paste (toothpaste consistency) or alternatively buy ready made paste.  You may also want to lay in some fresh clay to fill in gaps if required.  Dry and sand again if required.  Your slip can also be used as your "glue" to join pieces together.

All the clay that we stock can be either torch fired or placed in a kiln which will hold a consistent temperature for a set time.