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Polymer Clay Tip of the Week
Stamped Beads
January 17, 2004
Here is a simple and fun way to make some interesting polymer clay beads. Using rubber stamps and acrylic paint to embellish the clay a unique collection of beads can be made quickly and easily. This is a great way to add new life to your scrap clay, just mix it up until it's one color.

Materials

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  • Premo or Fimo clay in your choice of colors
  • Rubber stamps
  • Acrylic paints in metallic colors, decorative liquid craft acrylics in brands like Plaid and DecoArt
  • Cosmetic sponges, 1 for each color
  • Pasta Machine or rod for rolling out the clay
  • razor blade/tissue blade
  • Acrylic glaze, such a Future Floor Polish
  • small paint brush

 

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Step 1

Roll out the clay to 1/4" thinkness. If using a pasta machine, roll it on the thickest size and fold it over, roll over it a few times with a roller to smooth out air bubbles, trim off the edges.

Step 2

Using the sponge coat the stamp with acrylic paint. Stamp the clay.

Step 3

Use the sponge to gently coat the unstamped part of the clay with a thin layer of paint. Use a different color of paint than the one used for the stamp for a nice effect. See example above.

Step 4

Let the paint dry for a few minutes. Cut the clay to the desired bead shape. Finish the sides with various canes - stripes and spirals work well. Roll over the surface to smooth out the canes, cut excess clay. Let set for 10-15 mintues before poking holes. If making longer pendants it's easier to have the holes running horizontal.

Step 5

Bake as package directs, sand and buff as desired. Finish with a light coat of Future to protect the surface of the beads.