How to Incorporate Nails Into Polymer Clay Creations

Hello, This instructable will show you how to incorporate nails into your polymer clay creations, Hardware nails can be used in a variety of ways for polymer clay creations, uses such as Stems, Spikes, Legs, Horns, and so on. Here's a list of materials used in this tutorial, Super Sculpey Firm or any other strong polymer clay, Polymer clay glue I suggest Sculpey bake & bond, Grip-Rite Bright Finish 3b 1-1/4 Nails, and an Oven capable of reaching temperatures over (250°F) (121°C). WARNING Nails Are Sharp And Pointy Be Cautious.

Step 1:

Begin with your preferred polymer clay I suggest using a strong polymer clay like Super Sculpey Firm wich is less likely to become brittle in the baking process. After you have selected your clay, begin to sculpt the basic form of your creation.

Step 2:

Once you're satisfied with the basic form, start to add a hole for each place where you want the nail to be inserted, When you are finished with the holes you can then add a small amount of clay glue into the holes for the nails can stay in place, Then insert the nails into the holes.

Step 3:

After you've inserted the nails, Begin to surround the bottom of the nail with small amounts of polymer clay, To give the nail more support and to fill in the hole, Once you're done surrounding the bottom of the nail with clay, start to smoothen the area with the added clay by using a tool or your finger.

Step 4:

Now you can start to add the final adjustments and details to your creation, Once you're satisfied with your creation, Add some supports under the nails for they won't fall or warp the surrounding clay in the baking process, I recommend using aluminum foil for the supports. Then bake it in the oven for 15-30 minutes at (250°F) (121°C), optional Once it's done baking and still warm you can place your creation in water to cool and harden it instantly.