Conditioning Sculpey Polymer Clays

​Preparing Polymer Clay: Conditioning Sculpey III, Premo and Souffle

Polymer Clay needs to be conditioned before use, as it doesn't come pre-conditioned. Conditioning is essential to make the clay more pliable, consistent, and easy to work with. Here's why conditioning Polymer Clay is important and how you can do it effectively:

Why Condition Sculpey Polymer Clays?

• Enhances Flexibility: Conditioning helps the clay become more flexible, reducing the risk of cracking or breaking during shaping and baking.
• Ensures Consistency: Kneading the clay blends out any inconsistencies, resulting in a smooth, even texture.
• Activates Plasticizers: Conditioning activates the plasticizers in the clay, making it softer and easier to shape.
• Eliminates Air Bubbles: Proper conditioning removes air bubbles that can cause imperfections in your finished piece.
  
  

How to Condition Sculpey III, Premo and Souffle Polymer Clay

• Warm It Up: Start by warming the clay slightly in your hands. You can also place the clay in a bag and submerge it in warm water or use a heating pad for a few minutes to increase pliability.
• Knead Thoroughly: Take a small piece of clay and knead it with your hands. Roll, stretch, and fold the clay repeatedly. This process may take a few minutes, depending on the clay's initial firmness.
• Use a Clay Roller: A clay roller or pasta machine is great for conditioning. Run the clay through the roller several times, folding it each time to ensure even conditioning.
• Check for Readiness: Well-conditioned clay should be smooth, flexible, and free of cracks when bent. If the clay remains stiff or crumbly, continue conditioning until the desired consistency is achieved.
• Add Softeners: If the clay is particularly hard or crumbly (as some effect or darker clays often are), add a drop of clay softener or mix it with a softer clay to aid in the conditioning process. 
  
  

Tips for Conditioning Polymer Clay

• Work in Small Batches: It’s easier to condition small pieces of clay and then combine them for your project.
• Avoid Over-Conditioning: While conditioning is crucial, overdoing it can make the clay too soft, which can complicate working with fine details.
• Use Softener Wisely: Clay softener is a staple for any clay artist. Start with just one drop to soften the clay, adding more only if needed. The size, temperature, and initial condition of the clay will determine how much softener is necessary, but remember, less is more!
• Store Properly: After conditioning, store the clay in an airtight container to maintain its softness until you’re ready to use it.
  
  

Properly conditioning Polymer Clay ensures a smooth working experience and helps you achieve the best results in your sculpting projects.