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Following are the types of oven-baked clay:
This type of oven-baked clay is a widely used option. It is a special molding material that hardens when heated in the oven. It remains soft and pliable at room temperature. It requires proper kneading before molding to take the desired shape. The hard clay is perfect for small projects like jewelry or miniatures.
It comes in different vibrant colors. It has a glossy finish that can be enhanced by the application of glaze.
Sculpey clay is a brand. They made this type of clay exclusive for sculpting and crafting. It is known for its softness. It can easily be shaped and molded by hands while it remains firm. The clay bakes into a hard finish in the oven to maintain its shape and functionality.
Sculpey clay comes in multiple variations. These variations include Original Sculpey for beginners and Sculpey III for professional use. They can create a wider range of crafts.
Crafters prefer this type of clay because of its quality. They are made of a special material called polymer clay. But these two types of clay yield different results when baked in an oven.
Fimo clay is generally favored for projects with smaller details like beads and miniature sculptures. It offers a smooth finish and strong durability after baking. Crafters recommend this clay for professional use projects.
This clay is a lesser-known but still popular option among artists. They like it for its unique properties. The clay is a special polymer clay mixture that contains a small percentage of resin. This addition makes it tougher and less likely to crack over time.
Cernit clay comes in various skin tones as well as transparent and metallic colors. These colors help artists create realistic dolls or decorative items. The clay remains soft at room temperature. So, it's ideal for making custom molds.
The durability of oven-baked clay depends on the quality of materials used to manufacture it:
Oven-baked clay is majorly manufactured using a special kind of polymer clay. It is a synthetic clay made from a mixture of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and a plasticizer. This combination gives the clay its unique properties of flexibility and strength.
Some varieties may contain other natural minerals like clay, talc, or cornstarch. It helps in enhancing texture and feel. High-quality oven-baked clays like Fimo and Sculpey incorporate special resin or wax. It is added to improve ease of use and workability.
The surface fineness and texture of oven-baked clay vary according to the brand and type of clay. Some kinds like Sculpey Ultra Light have a silky smooth surface. It can easily crack or break like a resin.
Others like Fimo Soft can have a matte finish. They are more robust and resist wear and tear easily. Users can also combine different finishes using varnishes or sealants for protective purposes.
When baked correctly, the oven-baked clay becomes solid and long-lasting like ceramics. Its durability also depends on the type of clay and brand being used. High-quality clays are made to withstand pressure and are less likely to shatter easily like glass.
Many types of oven-baked clay like Fimo and Cernit are water-resistant. They can survive some exposure to moisture without getting damaged or weakening. However, they are not completely waterproof like ceramic.
Crafters and artists can try the following customization options for their oven-baked clay:
Oven-baked clay is available to buyers in multiple exciting colors. These colors range from vibrant hues to metallic shades. They offer a wide array of choices for multiple projects of users. Artists can also mix different colors together to create custom shades. It is as simple as kneading the clay until the desired color appears.
Users can texturize oven-baked clay using some basic tools. These tools include embossing rollers, texture mats, and even everyday items like leaves or fabrics. They create a variety of patterns on the clay surface before baking it in an oven. It enables users to add intricate designs to their clay projects.
Oven-baked clay can receive multiple surface treatments after baking. They include sanding, painting, or applying sealants. These treatments enhance the look and finish of the final product. Sealants also add a layer of protection to make the clay more durable and appealing.
Adding mix-ins is an effective method to give baked clay a unique finish. Users can incorporate small items like glitter, metal foil, or paint chips into the clay. It adds color and texture to their creations. It is important for buyers to ensure that any added materials are compatible with polymer clay.
Artists can also use molds to customize baked clay. They can create specific shapes or intricate designs using silicone or plastic molds. This technique is particularly useful for users who want to replicate designs consistently.
These are some factors business owners should keep in mind when buying oven-baked clay:
Some brands offer polymer clay that many crafters trust for their projects. This is because these brands have made this clay using strong materials. These materials help them to stay durable and resist breaks. While choosing a clay, prefer the brands that have exclusive options for customizing clay like texture or colors. Such options can help retailers satisfy their customers' requirements.
Consider which option to recommend to first-timers. Some oven-baked clays are softer than others. This means beginners can easily shape and mold them at their home desks. There are also polymer clays that harden more easily when exposed to air for users who prefer self-drying options.
Advise customers to choose the type of oven-baked clay based on the finish they prefer. Different polymer clays have their unique surface finish. Some options yield a matte surface, while others give a glossy look. Retailers working with bulk orders should choose manufacturers who can provide them with customized finishes.
Some types of oven-baked clay are compatible with other crafting items like resin or silicone. This quality will enable users to experiment with mixed-media artwork. Such compatibility also allows artists to incorporate additional elements into their creations for better results.
Business owners should consider the budget of their targeted polymer clay customers. They should stock clay in different price ranges. These ranges will cater to various customers, from casual crafters to professional artists. Buyers should also stock various quantities, from single blocks for hobbyists to bulk sets for larger projects. They will ensure they have options of both budget-friendly and high-quality items.
Yes, the baked clay requires special storage when not in use. They recommend buyers keep unused clay in airtight containers. It prevents the clay from drying out. If the clay hardens, it can be difficult to work with, although some brands offer tips to revive stale clay.
Yes, users can paint the clay after it hardens. People use acrylic paint to achieve the best results. It allows them to add finer details and colors to their projects. Sealing the clay before painting it helps the paint adhere better to the surface. It also prevents the paint from chipping or peeling off.
Users should bake the polymer clay in a conventional oven for best results. The oven should be preheated to the temperature recommended by the manufacturer. It is also important for crafters to use an oven thermometer to ensure the temperature stays consistent while baking. Using a baking tray or ceramic tile as a surface will help distribute heat evenly across the clay. This technique makes the clay easy to work with and strong.
Crafters have some good news. Yes, the oven-baked clay can be recycled if a user does not like the results. They just need to remold the clay before it goes into the oven for the final time. The clay can also be reused multiple times as long as it is not fully baked during each use.