Using Flexible Moulds for Polymer Clay

with Sue Heaser

'Sculpey Flexible Push Molds' are incredibly easy to use for moulding all brands of polymer clay. The moulds are made of flexible rubber, so once you have pushed the clay into the mould, you can flex it to pop out the moulded piece.

You can use the moulds for many other materials as well - plaster of Paris, air dry clays, melt and pour soap, plasticine, biscuit dough, chocolate, marzipan, ice cubes etc. If using the moulds for food, be sure to scrub the mould thoroughly before use or buy separate moulds for the purpose.

The moulded pieces can be used for jewellery, fridge magnets, decorations, embellishments for boxes and books, and card making.

Moulding Tips

You can use any brand of clay in Sculpey moulds but some may be stickier to use than others. If you find the clay sticks to the mould, you can wet the mould with water or brush on a little talcum powder with a soft brush.

Moulds can be cleaned by scrubbing with washing up liquid and water. Alternatively you can use baby wipes or a rag dipped in methylated spirits.

The baked moulded pieces can be painted with acrylic paint. For best results, first de-grease the surface by brushing with alcohol (methylated spirits). You can varnish the pieces for a shiny effect.

Try brushing pieces moulded in black with metallic or Pearl Ex powders before baking for really glittery results.

Use PVA glue to attach the moulded pieces to card or paper or superglue to attach to wood, plastic, magnets, brooch backs or anything metal. Two part epoxy glues also give a very firm bond onto metal, wood or plastic.

Basic Moulding Instructions

Step 1

Knead a piece of polymer clay until it is soft and well conditioned. Pull off a piece approximately the same size as the cavity in the mould that you want to use and shape it roughly to the cavity shape.
 

Step 2

Push the clay into the mould cavity, pressing it in firmly and into all the corners. If the clay is not enough to fill the cavity, add more clay and keep pressing. Support the mould cavity underneath with your fingers as you press down.

Step 3

Use a plastic tool or blunt table knife to shave off the excess clay. (Do not use a sharp knife which may damage the mould). The clay surface should be level with the mould surface to ensure a smooth back to your piece.

Step 4

Place the mould in a freezer for about 5 minutes to chill the clay thoroughly and harden it. This will make it easier to pop out of the mould. If you cannot use a freezer, just leave the mould to rest for a while. Use your fingers to ease the clay away from the edges of the cavity, flex the mould and pop out the moulded piece. It is now ready to be used in a project.