by Melanie Marten

Created on: June 12, 2007   Last Updated: June 13, 2007

Using polymer clay, such as Fimo brand, to create beads for jewelry making is a popular craft. This article will explain how to make polymer clay beads with an attractive marble pattern. These marble pattern beads will be a great addition to your jewelry craft project.

Preparing the Polymer Clay

Because of polymer clay's special properties, it must be kneaded and worked with your hands before using it to create beads. Follow the manufacturer's directions for preparing the clay.

After the clay is ready for use, choose the two or three colors that you wish to make your marble pattern with. It is best to do this with two complimentary colors and one light color, such as white. Some examples are: black, grey, and white, dark grey, pink, and white, or dark green, medium green, and white.

Working with Two Colors of Polymer Clay

When working with two colors of polymer clay, it is a good idea to work with the lighter color first. This is because the dyes from the clay can transfer and blend if you are not careful. Also, dark or bright colors can quickly overpower a light color. It is also a good idea to wash your hands or use hand lotion between working with different colors of clay. This will help prevent the spread of the colors.

Creating the Marble Pattern in the Clay

The marble pattern is one of the easiest to make with polymer clay. As instructed above, you should start with the lightest color. Using only a little bit of clay at a time, gradually add the darker colors and fold the clay over and over until it is striated or swirled as you wish. Be careful not to mix the clay too much, or you will form a new color instead of creating a marble pattern.

Forming the Polymer Clay Beads

After the marble pattern is made, you can shape the clay into any type of beads that you desire. Spherical beads are made by rolling the clay in your palm or on a flat surface. Cylindrical beads can be made be rolling the polymer clay into a log and then slicing it. Other shapes can be fashioned with cutters or your own fingers.

After the beads are shaped, put the wire or stick through the center for the hole. Then, bake the polymer clay beads according to the manufacturer's directions.

Marble pattern beads will look great in any jewelry craft project. Using polymer clay to make them is easy. By following the simple instructions in this article, you will be able to make polymer clay beads with a marble pattern.

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