In order to properly seal polymer clay and make it waterproof, you will need to follow a few steps. First, you have to bake the polymer clay. Generally polymer clay needs to be baked at 265F (130C) for 15 minutes per 1/4 inch (6mm) of thickness.
You should use a bead baking rack or puffin paper to protect your polymer clay during the baking process. After baking, you should let the polymer clay cool thoroughly.
Once the polymer clay has been cooled, you can use your desired sealant. Primarily, you would want to use a sealant with a hard finish. A few sealants that you can use with polymer clay are Mod Podge, Varathane, or DuraClear satin finish.
You need to make sure that the sealant that you choose is nontoxic and food-safe so it will not bring harm to people. Start by applying a light layer of sealant over the entire surface of your polymer clay and let it dry completely.
Add additional layers to increase the sealant’s protective ability. Make sure to let each layer dry thoroughly.
You would still need to hand-wash the piece since the sealant can be damaged with a harsh scrubbing or by soaking. Keep in mind that the sealant will not keep polymer clay completely waterproof, but it will protect the piece from water damage.
How do you waterproof a polymer?
Waterproofing a polymer can be done in several ways. One method involves coating the polymer with a material that has hydrophobic, or water-resistant, properties such as a polyurethane or polyethylene.
This can be done either before or after the polymer is formed into the desired shape. The coating should be applied in thin layers so that the overall thickness of the coating is uniform and the thickness of any individual layer is kept to a minimum.
The coating should also be inspected periodically to make sure it is not cracking or flaking off. Another method of waterproofing a polymer involves mixing a waterproofing agent such as wax, silicone, or polyether polyols into the polymer mixture before heat processing and forming the polymer.
This method increases the water-resistant properties of the polymer, but it can also reduce its mechanical properties. Finally, a more permanent form of waterproofing can be achieved by immersing the polymer in a waterproofing agent, such as an epoxy resin, and then baking the polymer in an oven at an appropriate temperature for a specified time.
Whichever method is used, testing should be done to ensure the waterproofing has been properly applied and that the desired properties of the polymer have not been affected.
Will polymer clay hold up outdoors?
Polymer clay can hold up outdoors, depending largely upon the product you use and the environment in which it’s located. The brand you use plays an important role in its ability to stand up to outdoor conditions.
It’s best to use a brand specifically designed for outdoor handling, as this type of clay generally includes additional strengthening chemicals blended into the product that allow it to stand up to the elements much better.
It’s also important to take proper precautions to weatherproof your project. Sealants, varnishes, and lacquers can all add additional protection to the surface of your project, helping to keep it safe from discoloring and degrading over time.
Additionally, polymer clay should always be located under some type of shelter to help minimize its exposure to the elements. This can include awnings, tarps, or simply finding a spot on a covered porch.
With the right brand and measures in place, polymer clay can hold up quite well outdoors.
What happens when polymer clay gets wet?
When polymer clay gets wet, it can become soft and sticky. Wetting the clay can also cause it to lose its shape, crack, or break apart. This is because water molecules act like tiny wedges and penetrate between the layers of the clay, breaking the links between the polymer chains that give the clay its shape and strength.
When wet, the clay is more malleable, so it can be sculpted and molded more easily.
It’s important to note that when polymer clay is exposed to water, the drying process can create air bubbles which can weaken the structure of the clay and cause it to crack or warp. To avoid this, it’s critical to keep polymer clay dry and to seal the clay with a clear coat after each layer of color or glaze to prevent the clay from becoming wet.
What can I use to seal polymer clay?
You can use a variety of products to seal polymer clay. The most common approach is to use a clear acrylic sealant spray. This helps protect the clay and gives it a nice glossy finish. Additionally, you can also use a matte finish varnish, which can be brushed on the polymer clay for a matte finish.
For indoor items, a clear polyurethane varnish or lacquer may be used for sealing. You can also use sealants such as Mod Podge or crystal lacquer for a glossy finish. For more intricate designs, like those that contain small pieces, you could use clear nail polish or polyurethane.
For outdoor items, a clear acrylic sealer is the best option because it can withstand the elements. Regardless of which method you choose to seal polymer clay, be sure to apply a few light coats and allow the sealant to completely dry between each coat.
Can you use clear nail polish as a glaze for polymer clay?
Yes, you can use clear nail polish as a glaze for polymer clay. It is preferable to use a brush-on lacquer or glaze specifically made for polymer clay, but if that is not available, clear nail polish can be used.
As with any other glaze, you should use multiple thin coats to prevent bubbling. When using clear nail polish, it is also important to ensure that the one you select is non-yellowing and fast drying, as some varieties will cause discoloration or take a long time to dry completely.
Additionally, it is best to apply the nail polish in a well-ventilated room, as some contain potentially hazardous chemicals. While clear nail polish can be used as a glaze for polymer clay, it is important to use proper safety precautions when doing so.
Do I need to seal acrylic paint on polymer clay?
Yes, it is important to seal acrylic paint on polymer clay in order to protect the paint and the clay for the long term. Sealing can help guard against chipping, flaking, and fading. Depending on the type of finish desired, there are a few ways to seal acrylic paint on polymer clay.
One option is to use a varnish or sealant like Mod Podge to seal the paint after it has dried. For a glossy finish, you can use a polyurethane sealant. For a more matte, natural finish, you can also use acrylic matte medium to seal in the paint.
In addition, some people prefer to use an oven to bake the paint into the clay. This method is usually used with polymer clay and involves baking the piece at a low temperature (265F) for around 30 minutes.
After it has cooled, you can use a sealant to complete the process.
Ultimately, it is important to seal acrylic paint on polymer clay to ensure that it lasts as long as possible. However, the method you use will depend on the type of finish you want and the type of clay you are working with.
Can I leave oven bake clay out overnight?
No, it is not recommended to leave oven bake clay out overnight. If you leave the clay out, it may absorb moisture from the air which will make it difficult to use and can also cause it to become brittle.
Oven bake clay needs to be cured in the oven in order to make it durable. The clay needs to reach a certain temperature in order for it to set properly and become harder. If you do not cure it properly, it may not hold its shape or structure.
Additionally, any moisture left in the clay may lead to mold that can ruin the sculpture. For these reasons, it is best to only leave oven bake clay out for a short time before baking it in the oven.
Is polymer clay water-resistant?
No, polymer clay is not water-resistant. In fact, it can become very fragile and susceptible to damage when exposed to water. The water molecules can cause the clay to break down, making it brittle and prone to cracking.
If water does come into contact with polymer clay, it’s important to remove it quickly to reduce the risk of damage. The clay should also be dried out thoroughly before additional layers of paint, sealant, or other finish are applied.
When properly sealed and baked, polymer clay can be somewhat water-resistant, but it will not have the same durability as most waterproof materials.
Does oven bake clay need to be sealed?
Yes, oven bake clay needs to be sealed. This is because the porous nature of this type of clay means that it can be easily damaged by moisture, dust, or other environmental factors. Sealing the clay before any painting or other finishes are applied will protect it and preserve the overall look and integrity of the project.
When using any sealant or coating, it is important to use one that is specifically designed for oven bake clay, as other types may not be able to properly adhere to the material or may not provide the needed protection.
Applying sealant typically involves brushing it on the clay, allowing it to dry completely, and then lightly sanding the surface. This process not only helps to keep the clay safe and looking great, but it can also help it look uniform in color and texture.
What do you seal clay with?
When working with clay, it is important to seal it with a coat of a sealant. This will protect the clay from moisture as it needs to be kept from becoming too wet. The sealant also serves to reduce any cracking or warping that can occur in clay when it dries out.
Common sealants for clay are commercial products specifically designed for the job, or you may even use various things like mineral oil and beeswax. All sealants should be applied evenly to the surface of the clay, rubbing it in thoroughly with a clean cloth while avoiding any moisture.
After letting it dry, a coat of varnish may then be applied to further protect the clay.
Can I seal polymer clay with Mod Podge?
Yes, you can use Mod Podge to seal polymer clay. It is a great option because Mod Podge is a water-based sealant that dries clear and won’t yellow over time. Mod Podge can be applied with a brush or cloth and can be used to seal both lightweight clay and heavier clay.
It is important to make sure you thoroughly clean your project before sealing as any residual dirt or dust will become visible once it’s sealed. Applying several thin coats of Mod Podge will give the best results and will protect your polymer clay project from normal wear and tear.
Can you put polymer clay in the washing machine?
No, you should never put polymer clay in the washing machine. Polymer clay is a type of modeling clay that is made from a combination of polyvinyl chloride and plasticizers. Once the clay has been cured (sometimes by baking in an oven), it can be waterproof, but it’s still best to avoid washing it in the washing machine.
Additionally, because the clay can be brittle, it could be susceptible to extra wear and tear from the washing machine’s motion and the water pressure. This could cause it to crack or break. Therefore, you should only clean polymer clay by hand with a mild soap and warm water.
