Learning from Mistakes

Finger prints and finish that will eventually become sticky are only a few of the  mistakes I've made in experimenting with polymer clay. Of course, there are also warnings out there about using Scuply III, which is what I have.

Some things I'm trying: longer baking times. Many blogs write of getting much harder beads by doubling the baking time. http://www.beadsandbeading.com/blog/baking-beads-break-the-rules/59/

Finger print prevention: got gloves and corn starch yesterday.

Deciding on a finish: http://glassattic.com/polymer/finishes.htm.

Info on creating a buffing wheel: http://www.desiredcreations.com/howTo_TLDremelPolish.htm

On a happier note, here's a wonderful cane technique I don't want to forget. Rather than using translucent clay, this lets you use water soluble clay to create a cane that you make, reduce then peel away the excess: