Developed in the 1930s, polymer clay is a sculptable material based on the polymerpolyvinyl chloride (PVC). Uses of polymer clay include jewelry making, sculpting small pieces, creating vessels, creating faux materials such as rose quartz, wood, and turquoise, and covering items made of glass, cardboard, or other materials.
Polymer clay is workable right out of the package, although it is best to condition the clay first by use of a pasta machine. Finished items are cured in a conventional oven, generally at 230-300 degrees F.
Brands: Polymer clay is available in several brands (Sculpey, Fimo, Kato Polyclay, and Cernit). Each has its own inherent qualities, and some are preferable to others for specific types of work. Within each brand, there are soft as well as firm formulations of the clay, as well as a large variety of available colors.
