With the holiday season right around the corner, many crafty folks like myself are looking for fun and unique projects to make handmade gifts for loved ones. While shopping for standard store-bought holiday decor can certainly get the job done, nothing beats the warmth and personal touch of items you’ve created with your own two hands.
This year, I wanted to try something a little different for my holiday décor – polymer clay ornaments!
Working with polymer clay is not only a stress-relieving creative outlet, but also allows for endless design possibilities to put your own creative spin on classic holiday shapes. In this blog post, I’ll share how to make polymer clay ornaments that you can easily customize with colors and textures to suit any style. So grab your tools and clay, and get ready to get your craft on!
Why May You Want to Make Polymer Clay Ornaments?
1 . To Personalize Your Holiday Decor
With polymer clay ornaments, you can make your home feel festive and special. You can choose colors that complement your existing décor, or create a whole new color scheme to match the holiday spirit. Not only will these ornaments make your home feel cozy and unique, but they also make great gifts for family and friends.
2. As a Creative Outlet
Making polymer clay ornaments is a fun way to let your creativity flow! You can experiment with different shapes, colors, textures, and techniques to create one-of-a-kind pieces. This project allows you to relax and disconnect from the stress of daily life, and instead focus on making something beautiful.
3. To Involve Kids in Holiday Decorating
This is a great project to involve kids in holiday decorating. They will love to help you pick out colors, shapes, and decorations for their very own ornament creations. This is also a great way to make memories and spend quality time together during the holiday season.
4. As a Budget-Friendly Option
Polymer clay ornaments are not only personal and unique, but also budget-friendly! You can find polymer clay at most craft stores for an affordable price, and you can make several ornaments with just one pack of clay. This is a great option if you’re looking to save some money on holiday decorations.
5. To Explore Different Techniques
Working with polymer clay allows you to explore different techniques, such as blending colors, adding textures, and using molds or stamps to create intricate designs. This is a great opportunity for anyone interested in learning new skills and experimenting with different materials.
How to Make Polymer Clay Ornaments in 6 Easy Steps
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
To make polymer clay ornaments, you will need:
- Polymer clay in your desired colors
- Rolling pin or pasta machine (optional)
- Cookie cutters or shape templates
- Toothpicks or skewers
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
Step 2: Condition the Clay
Conditioning the clay is an important step to make it easier to work with. Simply knead the clay in your hands until it becomes soft and pliable. You can also use a pasta machine at its thickest setting to speed up this process.
Step 3: Roll Out the Clay
Using a rolling pin or pasta machine, roll out the clay to about 1/4 inch thickness. If using a cookie cutter, make sure the clay is slightly larger than the shape to allow for trimming. Also, make sure to roll out the clay on a flat surface and not on parchment paper as it can create wrinkles.
Step 4: Cut Out Your Shapes
Use your cookie cutters or shape templates to cut out your desired shapes from the rolled-out clay. You can also use a knife or toothpick to freehand any designs you like. Also, don’t forget to create a small hole at the top of each ornament for hanging.
Step 5: Add Texture and Designs
This is where you can let your creativity shine! Use stamps, molds, or other tools to add texture and designs to your ornaments. You can also mix different colors of clay together to create unique patterns. Make sure to smooth out any edges with your fingers or a toothpick.
Step 6: Bake the Ornaments
Place the ornaments on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake them according to the instructions on your clay package. Typically, polymer clay bakes at around 275°F for 15 minutes per 1/4 inch of thickness. Once baked, let them cool completely before handling or decorating.
Additional Tips to Make Polymer Clay Ornaments
1 . Do Not Overbake
It’s important to keep an eye on your ornaments while they are baking. Overbaking can cause the clay to become brittle and crack. Also, make sure to use an oven thermometer to ensure the correct temperature.
2. Use Cornstarch for Non-Stick Work Surface
If you find that your clay is sticking to your work surface, lightly dust it with cornstarch before rolling out the clay. This will prevent the clay from sticking and help create a smooth surface.
3. Get Creative with Colors
Don’t be afraid to mix different colors of clay together to create unique shades or patterns. You can also use metallic or glitter clay for a shimmery touch. Also, consider painting your ornaments after they have been baked for even more customization.
4. Experiment with Different Shapes
While traditional holiday shapes like stars and trees are always a hit, don’t be afraid to experiment with other shapes such as animals, flowers or snowflakes. You can also layer different shapes together for a more dimensional ornament.
5. Add Beads or Charms for Extra Decoration
After baking your ornaments, you can add additional decorations such as beads, pearls, or charms. Simply use a strong adhesive to attach them to the ornament.
6. Use a Toothpick for Smoothing Out Edges
If you find that your edges are not smooth after cutting out the shapes, you can use a toothpick to gently smooth them out. You can also use a small amount of water on your finger to help smooth out any imperfections.
7. Personalize with Names or Messages
You can use letter stamps or a toothpick to add personalized names or messages onto your ornaments before baking. This is a great way to make them even more special as gifts or for your own tree.
8. Seal with a Clear Coat
To protect your ornaments and add shine, you can seal them with a clear coat after they have been baked and cooled. This will also prevent any paint or decorations from coming off over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Precautions Should I Take While Working with Polymer Clay?
While polymer clay is generally safe to work with, it’s always a good idea to take precautions. Make sure to wash your hands before and after handling the clay, as well as clean your work surface thoroughly. Also, avoid eating or drinking while working with the clay.
How Long Do Polymer Clay Ornaments Last?
With proper care and storage, polymer clay ornaments can last for many years. Make sure to store them in a cool and dry place when not in use. Also, avoid exposing them to direct sunlight or excessive heat.
Can I Make Ornaments with Children?
Yes, polymer clay is a great material for kids to work with. Just make sure to supervise and guide them while they are handling the clay and using any tools. Also, be cautious of the hot oven when baking the ornaments.
What is the Best Way to Store Polymer Clay?
Polymer clay should be stored in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. You can also wrap it in plastic wrap or place it in a zip-top bag before storing it. Also, make sure to keep it away from excessive heat or direct sunlight.
Can I Mix Different Brands of Polymer Clay?
Yes, you can mix different brands of polymer clay together. Just make sure they are the same type (oven-bake or air-dry) and have similar baking instructions. This will ensure that the clay bakes evenly and retains its shape.
How Do I Clean Up After Working with Polymer Clay?
Clean-up is easy with polymer clay. Simply wipe down your work surface with a damp cloth, wash any tools or utensils used, and dispose of any unused clay in an airtight container. You can also use baby wipes to clean off excess clay from your hands.
Can I Use Polymer Clay to Make Other Decorations?
Absolutely! In addition to ornaments, you can use polymer clay to make a variety of decorations such as jewelry, figurines, and home decor. The possibilities are endless with this versatile material.
Where Can I Find More Inspiration for Polymer Clay Ornaments?
There are many resources available online for inspiration and tutorials on how to make polymer clay ornaments. You can also check out your local library or craft store for books and magazines on the topic. Additionally, social media platforms such as Pinterest and Instagram are great places to find inspiration from other creators.
Conclusion
Now you know how to make polymer clay ornaments in just a few simple steps. Not only is it a fun and creative activity, but also budget-friendly and perfect for involving kids in holiday decorating.
So gather your supplies and start creating unique and personalized ornaments that will make your tree stand out this holiday season. Also, don’t forget to experiment with different techniques and materials to make your ornaments even more unique. Happy crafting!