Do you have a group polymer clay project you are just dying to try but don't have the money to buy lots of traditional polymer clay tools?
Below are the four basic polymer clay tools I came up with for the Loudonville Public Library teen polymer clay craft classes I teach. I sought out the least expensive yet, most functional tools. All of the below tools can either be found in packs of multiples or can be cut into pieces to create multiples. Below each image you will find the tool's description, the name of the store where I found the it (Ohio, USA) and product information for the aforementioned store (price, quantity,...). With this selection of simple tools, you can make sure that everyone in your group has their own tools to work with.
*Note* For the LPL teen polymer clay classes we have the students take their tile home with them so they have the proper surface to bake their project on.
Since the tiles come in large packs it is still cost-effective.
Below are the four basic polymer clay tools I came up with for the Loudonville Public Library teen polymer clay craft classes I teach. I sought out the least expensive yet, most functional tools. All of the below tools can either be found in packs of multiples or can be cut into pieces to create multiples. Below each image you will find the tool's description, the name of the store where I found the it (Ohio, USA) and product information for the aforementioned store (price, quantity,...). With this selection of simple tools, you can make sure that everyone in your group has their own tools to work with.
*Note* For the LPL teen polymer clay classes we have the students take their tile home with them so they have the proper surface to bake their project on.
Since the tiles come in large packs it is still cost-effective.
“Craft Knife” Above is a 4-inch replacement utility knife blade. I have found them to be 2 to 3 times thicker than a basic tissue blade. For most projects this type of blade works well. They are relatively inexpensive and sold in packs of 5 to 10 count. You will need to wipe off all of the blades with alcohol as they are coated with an oil to, I believe, prevent rust. (Found at Home/Building Supply Stores) Lowes (USA): Kobalt (Scraper Blades) #0004576/ Item#4576/ Model#50143 Cost: 10pc. pack for $2.98 | Smooth Ceramic Tile This is the only tool that would typically be used with polymer clay. Tiles can be any size or color as long as they have a smooth glaze finish. Unglazed or textured tiles will not be a good basic work surface. (Found at Home/Building Supply Stores) Lowes (USA): 6x6 Bright White Flat Tile (L100-6) Cost: 48¢ each |
“Pointed Tool” Needles of any kind could be used. I choose size 16 sewing needles. It is a nice basic size and not too sharp in case younger students should join the class. For my personal use I buy assorted needle multipacks. This gives me a nice selection at a great price. (Found at Craft/Sewing Stores) JoAnn Fabric (USA): Britz Tapestry Needles, Size 16, Cost: 5pc. pack for $2.49 | “Smooth Rolling Pin” I found that this type of CPVC pipe (hot/ cold plastic plumbing pipe) is the strongest and sturdiest. Most of this type of pipe comes in lengths of 10(ten)feet. This is great because you really only need a rollingpin with a length of 12(twelve)inches. So, one length of pipe yields 10 individual rolling pins! (Nothing is perfect, so if they are not exactly 12 inches, don't worry about it.) This is, in my opinion, the best deal for the quantity and price. You do have to take the time to cut the pipe into pieces, sand the ends well and clean each piece with alcohol. It is worth it though!!! (Found at Home/Building Supply Stores) Lowes (USA): 3/4”x10’ CPVCPipe (Hot/Cold) #23813/Model#51007PL cost $6.07 [Cut into 12 individual rolling pins. Sand ends smooth. Clean with alcohol.] |