How to Seal Polymer Clay

Are you eager to start working with polymer clay but need help determining where to begin? Sealing your polymer clay projects is an essential step that will protect and preserve your creations for years to come.

How to seal polymer clay is just the beginning of the artistic journey; sealing your creations ensures their longevity and brings out the best in their design. Sealing polymer clay is a crucial step that protects your artwork from dirt, moisture, and wear and enhances its final appearance by adding a glossy or matte finish.

Whether you’re crafting jewelry, decorative items, or figurines, understanding the various sealant types and application techniques is essential for achieving professional-looking results.

In this guide, we will explore the different methods for sealing polymer clay, helping you preserve and confidently showcase your art.

What Will You Need?

Before diving into the sealing process, let’s gather all the necessary materials. You will need:

• Polymer clay creation(s)
• A clean soft brush or foam applicator
• Sealant of your choice (glossy, matte, satin)
• Disposable gloves (optional)
• Parchment paper or non-stick surface
• Oven-safe tray or baking sheet
• Oven thermometer (optional but recommended)

Once you have all your materials ready, it’s time to start sealing!

10 Easy Steps on How to Seal Polymer Clay

Step 1: Preparing Your Polymer Clay Creation

Ensuring that your polymer clay creation is correctly prepared before sealing is a vital first step. Begin by inspecting your artwork for any dust, fingerprints, or blemishes that may have appeared during crafting.

Use a soft, dry brush to gently remove any surface dust or particles, being careful not to damage the intricate details of your design. If your fingerprints are visible, consider using a rubbing alcohol-dampened cotton swab to buff them out lightly.

Next, ensure that your polymer clay piece has been fully cured according to the instructions on the clay package, as improper curing can lead to weak or brittle results. An oven thermometer can be beneficial here to verify that your oven reaches the recommended temperature accurately.

Once your piece is clean and fully cured, place it on a non-stick surface such as parchment paper to prevent it from sticking and set the stage for an easy and efficient sealing process.

Step 2: Choosing the Right Sealant

Selecting the appropriate sealant for your polymer clay creation is crucial to achieving the desired finish and protection level. Consider the effect you want to achieve: a glossy sealant will enhance colors and add a shiny finish. In contrast, a matte sealant will maintain the natural look of the clay without additional sheen.

Satin finishes offer a balance between the two. It’s essential to choose a sealant compatible with polymer clay to prevent any adverse reactions. Water-based polyurethane and varnishes are popular and easy-to-use options. Test your chosen sealant on a small scrap piece of cured clay to ensure it meets your expectations in terms of finish, durability, and compatibility.

Step 3: Applying the Sealant

With the appropriate sealant selected, the next step is to apply it evenly across the surface of your polymer clay creation. Start by dipping a clean, soft brush or foam applicator into the sealant, ensuring it is well-coated but not overly saturated. Gently brush the sealant onto your piece in smooth, even strokes, working from one end to the other.

Covering the entire surface, including any intricate details or textured areas, is essential to provide comprehensive protection and finish enhancement. If your creation has multiple sides or layers, allow the first section to dry completely before moving on to other areas, according to the drying time specified by the sealant manufacturer. Wearing disposable gloves during this process can protect your hands and prevent fingerprints from being transferred onto the clay.

Step 4: Allowing the Sealant to Dry

After applying the sealant, it’s crucial to let your polymer clay creation dry thoroughly. This solidifies the sealant and forms a durable protective layer over your artwork. Place your piece in a dust-free environment, away from direct sunlight and heat sources, to avoid any potential damage or warping during drying.

The drying time will vary depending on the type of sealant used, ranging from a few hours to overnight. It’s essential to adhere to the manufacturer’s recommended drying time to ensure optimal results. Resist the temptation to touch or handle your creation while it dries, which can lead to streaks, unwanted texture, or incomplete sealing.

Step 5: Applying Additional Coats if Necessary

Depending on the intended use and desired finish of your polymer clay creation, you may find it beneficial to apply additional coats of sealant. Multiple layers can enhance your piece’s durability, gloss, or matte appearance, ensuring it withstands handling and environmental factors over time.

After the first layer has dried completely, inspect your work to decide if another coat is needed. If so, apply the subsequent coat in the same manner as the first, using even strokes and allowing each layer to dry thoroughly before adding the next. Keep in mind that some sealants may limit the number of layers recommended, so refer to the product guidelines to avoid any adverse effects on the finish or adhesion.

Step 6: Sanding for a Smooth Finish

Sanding your polymer clay creation can refine the surface, reduce any imperfections, and contribute to a professional, polished finish. Begin by choosing the appropriate sandpaper grit; starting with a medium grit (around 400) is usually adequate for smoothing out more noticeable blemishes.

Gradually progress to finer grits, such as 600 or 800, to achieve an ultra-smooth surface. It’s crucial to sand gently and evenly, constantly rotating your piece to ensure uniformity and avoid flattening intricate designs or edges.

When sanding, using a little water can help reduce dust and improve control, though some artists prefer dry sanding for a more direct touch. As you work, periodically wipe your piece with a damp cloth to remove the accumulated dust and assess your progress. If your creation has deeply textured or raised areas, consider using a sanding sponge or small, flexible sandpaper for greater precision and reach.

Step 7: Polishing the Final Piece

Once sanding is complete and you are satisfied with the smoothness of the surface, polishing is the final step to add a brilliant shine to your polymer clay creation. Start using a soft, lint-free cloth or a microfiber cloth to gently buff the surface.

Consider using a small amount of polymer clay polish or a non-abrasive furniture wax for an enhanced glossy finish. Apply the polish in circular motions, taking care to reach all areas of your piece evenly. Buffing increases the shine and seals the sanded surface, providing an extra layer of protection.

Finally, carefully inspect your piece to ensure there are no missed spots or uneven areas, and appreciate the carefully crafted work you’ve brought to life. With these finishing touches, your polymer clay creation is ready to impress as a beautiful and durable piece of art.

Step 8: Displaying or Storing Your Polymer Clay Creation

After finishing your polymer clay creation, the next step involves deciding how to display or store it. If you plan to showcase your piece, consider placing it in a well-lit area where it can be admired from various angles, highlighting its unique features and craftsmanship. Display stands or shadow boxes can offer a professional presentation and additional protection.

If storing your polymer clay creation, opt for a cool, dry environment to prevent any potential damage from moisture or heat. Use acid-free tissue paper or bubble wrap to gently wrap your piece, especially if it features intricate details or fragile components. It is also advisable to store items individually to avoid scratches or deformation. Proper care in displaying or storing your work ensures its longevity and maintains the integrity of your artistic effort.

Step 9: Troubleshooting Common Polymer Clay Issues

Even with careful craftsmanship, polymer clay projects may encounter common issues that require troubleshooting. One such problem is breakage or brittleness, which often results from insufficient baking time or temperature. To remedy this, ensure baking is done using an accurate oven thermometer and followed by manufacturer instructions precisely. Additionally, using a high-quality sealant can improve flexibility and reduce brittleness.

Another frequent issue is color distortion, often caused by incorrect baking temperature or excessive exposure to light. Bake your creations in a preheated oven at the recommended temperature to prevent this. Painting or adding surface details with polymer-safe paints can restore the desired color if discoloration occurs.

Step 10: Enhancing Details with Surface Techniques

Consider enhancing details with various surface techniques to elevate your polymer clay creations. Techniques such as glazing, texturing, or adding intricate patterns can bring unique character and depth to your pieces. Glazing involves applying a clear or tinted finish to clay parts, enriching color, and adding a high-gloss or matte look.

To create textures, use tools like brushes, stamps, or sponges before baking to imprint designs that add tactile interest. Try using metallic powders, chalk pastels, or mica powders to add patterns or embellishments. These materials can achieve stunning effects like shimmering surfaces or subtle color gradients.

By following these ten essential steps, you can create beautiful and durable polymer clay pieces that showcase your artistic abilities.

Conclusion

How to seal polymer clay is an essential process that ensures the longevity and durability of your creations.

By carefully selecting the proper sealant and applying it precisely, you protect your piece from environmental factors and enhance its visual appeal. Prepare the surface thoroughly before sealing, allowing each layer to dry properly to achieve the best results.

Sanding and polishing refine the finish, giving your piece a professional look. Whether you display or store your creation, proper sealing and finishing will maintain its beauty and integrity for years.

Your polymer clay pieces can truly shine through careful attention to each step, showcasing your artistry and dedication.