Preparing the clay for sculpting is one of the most important Stages of the scupting process.

If mixed correctly, the clay will remain strong after baking, so much care and time should be taken on this first stage.

I use a small food processor, which has blades that chop and warm the clay whilst in operation.

Break the clay into small chunks and drop small amounts into the bowl.

When it turns into a cottage cheese like consistency, remove it and knead until it is smooth and doesn't crack when twisted into a sausage shape.

The clay will be nice and warm and easy to knead by using this method.

This is also an excellent way of mixing your own colours too, just remember to keep a note of the quantity of each colour used to achieve your final colour, then if you need more, you will be able to make the exact same colour :0)

IMPORTANT Never use the machine for food processing when it has been used for mixing polymer clay.  Dedicate a machine just for clay.

Use baby wipes to keep your work clean whilst working.  Simply wipe with baby wipes periodically as polymer clay is a magnet for fluff, hair and dirt.  Use a separate baby wipe for cleaning your work and another for wiping your hands.  Alternatively you could use an old lump of unbaked scrap clay and roll it in your hands from time to time.

When you have finished working with your clay for the day, either seal it in a polythene bag or cling film, then place it in an air tight container.  This will ensure your work stays clean and free from dirt..

Clay gets very warm and floppy in the baking process.  To protect your work from sagging, changing position and even cracking, props are a very necessary tool in the baking process.

You can use fibre fill, this is what I and a lot of artist's use.

With your sculpt in it's final position on an oven proof glass dish or an old wall tile, (metal baking trays aren't ideal as they absorb too much heat and could lead to scorches on your sculpture) prop fibre fill around your sculpt to hold the final position in place, to avoid "flats" on your finished work, place it on some fibre fill before propping.

Keep a watchful eye on your sculpture whilst it is baking.  If it appears to be losing its shape?  You can often rectify it before it is too late, just take great care, as the oven and clay will be VERY hot!!!!   

Props for the Oven