How to create polymer clay jewelry from scratch: step by step

Creating polymer clay jewelry allows to discover creativity and make unique pieces that reflect a personal style. I follow below steps from start to finish to create new products:

Gathering craft materials

To begin, gather your materials: polymer clay in various colors, rolling pin or pasta machine for clay, cookie cutters or clay cutters, craft knife, baking sheet, jewelry findings (e.g., earring hooks, jump rings, clasps), and any additional embellishments like beads or texture materials.

Conditioning clay

Before shaping jewelry, it's essential to condition the polymer clay. Play with each color of clay thoroughly to warm it up and make it softer. Conditioning helps to remove air bubbles and ensures the clay is smooth and easy to work with.

Shape and design

Once the clay is conditioned, roll it out to your desired thickness using a rolling pin or pasta machine. Use cookie cutters or clay cutters to cut out shapes for your jewelry pieces. You can also hand-shape the clay into beads, pendants, glitters, or any other forms you desire. Experiment with textures by using tools or stamps on the clay surface.

Bake the clay

Carefully place your shaped clay pieces on a baking sheet. I also pour baking soda on top of clay for this process, it enhances baking process of the pieces. Preheat your oven to the temperature specified on the clay packaging (usually around 120, 130°C). Bake the clay according to the manufacturer's instructions (you can find it in the back of clay package), typically for 15-30 minutes. Be mindful not to overbake, as this can cause the clay to darken or become brittle.

Finishing touches

Once baked and cooled, the clay pieces will harden. At this stage, I test each piece by bending it slightly to ensure it has cured properly. If it snaps, it indicates the product hasn't cured correctly and unfortunately needs to be discarded without hesitation. You may encounter this issue initially, but with time, you'll become familiar with your oven's nuances and baking times.

If the pieces are flexible and not snapping, it's time to add any final touches. Smooth out rough edges with fine-grit sandpaper (my favorite grit is 220 or 240). At later stage you can also purchase a Dremel, it will help a lot for sanding and drilling. To introduce additional colors or designs, you may paint the clay with acrylic paints or apply varnish for a glossy finish, or even use epoxy on top. In case you notice any imperfections on the surface after the baking process, gently wipe them away with acetone.

Drilling & assembling jewelry

Attach jewelry findings such as earring hooks, jump rings, or clasps to your polymer clay pieces. Ensure everything is securely fastened to create durable jewelry pieces that can be worn for a very long time.

Enjoying the outcome

Your polymer clay jewelry is now ready. Enjoy wearing, gifting, or selling your unique creations and showcasing your artistic talent! :))