What is Super Sculpey Clay?

Super Sculpey Clay, a beloved choice among artists and hobbyists worldwide, is a versatile polymer clay that opens up a world of creative possibilities. Whether you're a seasoned sculptor or just starting your artistic journey, It offers a ceramic-like feel and unparalleled malleability that allows you to bring your imagination to life with ease.

It is a versatile and user-friendly polymer clay that opens up endless possibilities for artists and hobbyists alike. From sculpting and baking to painting and displaying, this material offers unmatched versatility and durability that will take your creations to the next level. 

How long do you bake Super Sculpey Clay?

One of the many advantages is its ease of baking. Simply preheat your oven to 275°F (130°C), then place your sculpted creation on a baking sheet or mat. Bake for 15 minutes per 1/4 inch (6 mm) thickness, ensuring that you do not exceed the recommended baking time or temperature. Once baked, it transforms into a durable masterpiece that is ready to be painted, sanded, and displayed with pride.

Can it be air dried?

No, it does not air dry. Unlike other types of materials that dry and harden when exposed to air, this clay requires baking in an oven to cure properly. Once sculpted into the desired shape, it must be baked to ensure that it cures completely and retains its shape and durability over time. Baking activates the curing process, causing it to harden permanently.

This ensures that your creations maintain their form and integrity, making them suitable for long-term display or use. It's important to follow the recommended baking temperature and time provided by the manufacturer to prevent under or overbaking, which can affect the final hardness and appearance. 

After baking, it can be sanded, painted, and finished according to your preferences, allowing you to add additional details and customization to your creations. Its baking process provides a reliable and durable cure that ensures your artistic creations stand the test of time.

How to soften it?

If it has become too hard to work with, simply warm it between your hands and knead it until it softens to the desired consistency. Adding a small amount of this material softener or sculptor vaseline can also help revive older ones and make them easier to manipulate. If you often use this material, it is highly recommended to have a polymer clay machine to speed up all the time.

What is Super Sculpey clay made of?

Super Sculpey clay is made of a unique blend of polymer clay and other materials that give it its distinctive properties. This combination results in a one that is soft and pliable, yet durable enough to withstand the rigors of sculpting and baking.

It is mainly composed of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which is the main ingredient in its formula. In addition to PVC, it also contains various fillers, plasticisers and colourants, which contribute to its unique properties and characteristics.

Polyvinyl chloride, commonly known as PVC, is a synthetic polymer that is widely used in a variety of applications due to its versatility and durability. In this case, the PVC serves as the base material upon which the other components are added.

Fillers are added to the formula to modify its texture, consistency, and density. These fillers help to enhance the workability of the clay, making it easier to sculpt and manipulate into various shapes and forms.

Plasticizers are another key component, responsible for imparting flexibility and elasticity to this material. Plasticizers help to ensure that the material remains soft and pliable, even after it has been cured through the baking process. This flexibility allows artists to sculpt intricate details and achieve fine textures with ease.

Colorants are used to add pigments and dyes, giving it a wide range of vibrant colors and finishes. These colorants allow artists to create lifelike sculptures and intricate designs, bringing their creative visions to life with stunning clarity and realism.

It's important to note that while it contains these various ingredients, it is considered non-toxic both before and after hardening. However, like any other polymer clay, overheating Super Sculpey clay can lead to the release of harmful fumes and toxins, such as hydrochloric acid. Therefore, it is essential to follow proper baking instructions and precautions when working with this material to ensure safety and avoid potential hazards.

Where to buy Super Sculpey?

You can buy Super Sculpey clay from Green Stuff World, as well as through our extensive network of shops and distributors. Our wide distribution network ensures that you can easily find it in various places, both online and in physical stores, providing convenient access to this versatile polymer clay for artists and hobbyists around the world. With Green Stuff World and our network of partners, you can purchase it with confidence and embark on your creative projects with ease and convenience.

How to paint Super Sculpey clay?

After baking your sculpted creation, painting it with model paints, normally water-based, is a straightforward process that allows you to unleash your creativity and add vibrant colors and intricate details to your masterpiece. 

Begin by selecting your desired colors and preparing your work area with a clean, flat surface. Using a fine-tipped brush, apply the paint evenly onto the surface of your sculpture, ensuring smooth and precise coverage. Allow each layer of paint to dry completely before adding additional coats to achieve the desired depth and texture. 

For finer details, use smaller brushes or even toothpicks to apply paint with precision. Experiment with blending different colors and techniques to create unique effects and enhance the visual impact of your artwork. Once you are satisfied with the painted finish, allow the paint to dry thoroughly before displaying or handling your finished creation. With patience and attention to detail, painting your baked sculpture is a rewarding step that adds a vibrant and personalized touch to your artistic endeavors.

How to work with Super Sculpey?

To begin, ensure your work surface is clean and smooth. Knead it to soften and make it more pliable, ensuring no air bubbles are removed.

Use tools such as sculpting tools, knives, toothpicks, and even household items like toothbrushes or aluminum foil to create textures and shapes. Modeling tools come in various shapes and sizes, including pointed, rounded, and flat tips, allowing for intricate detailing and shaping. We do recommend silicone color shapers and metal sculpting tools.

Knives can be used for cutting and shaping, while toothpicks are great for adding fine details and textures. Toothbrushes can create interesting textures by stippling the surface, and aluminum foil can be used to create armatures with wires for larger sculptures. 

Experiment with different tools and techniques to achieve your desired results, whether you're sculpting figurines, jewelry, or intricate designs. Don't be afraid to get creative and let your imagination guide you as you work to bring your artistic visions to life.

Sculpey Baking Instructions

This material only hardens after baking, so this step is essential to finish your work. Follow these instructions to bake it correctly.

Materials needed:

• Sculpture or piece made with Super Sculpey Clay
• Baking tray
• Parchment paper or a ceramic tile

Step by step for baking Super Sculpey:

1. Completely finish the piece, including the details, as once baked they cannot be included or modified in the design.
2. Preheat the oven to 130ºC (275ºF). If you are in doubt about the accuracy of your oven temperature, use an oven thermometer to avoid overbaking your creations and ruining them.
3. Cover a baking sheet with parchment paper or use a ceramic tile as a surface on which to place the Super Sculpey in the oven. This will prevent the polymer clay from sticking or burning in direct contact with the tray.
4. Bake for 15 minutes for every 6 mm (1/4 inch) of thickness of the piece. So if, for example, your creation is 12 mm (½ inch) thick, you should bake it for 30 minutes. If it is very thin, check it throughout the baking time to prevent it from burning.
5. After baking, carefully remove the tray from the oven and allow the piece to cool completely at room temperature before handling it to reach its maximum hardness.

Baking tips

• It is very important that you do not overheat the oven or leave the Super Sculpey Clay in too long. If it starts to bubble or smoke it means that the temperature is too high and you should turn off the oven immediately and ventilate the place.
• If the piece is delicate or contains fine details, you can crumple aluminum foil, or use other oven-safe materials, to hold it in place while baking.
• Store unused polymer clay in an airtight container to prevent it from getting dirty or drying out.

How is Super Sculpey stored?

To maintain the freshness and flexibility of the material, proper storage is essential. When not in use, store it in an airtight container or sealed plastic bag. This prevents exposure to air, which can dry it out and make it difficult to handle over time. In addition, storing it in an airtight container protects it from dust, dirt and other contaminants that could affect its quality.

Avoid direct sunlight or extreme temperatures. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause it to become brittle, while extreme heat can soften and deform it. Cold temperatures can also affect its consistency, making it more difficult to shape and manipulate.

By storing it in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures, you can ensure it remains fresh and pliable for your next project. Proper storage practices will extend its shelf life and make it easier to achieve the desired results in your sculpting endeavors.

Is Waterproof?

While it is not inherently waterproof, it can withstand occasional exposure to water without losing its shape or integrity. However, prolonged exposure to moisture can cause it to soften or degrade over time.

Can it be reused?

Yes, It can be reused multiple times, as long as it has not been baked, making it a cost-effective choice for artists and hobbyists alike. Simply knead any leftover back into a ball and store it properly for future use.

Is Super Sculpey clay Toxic?

No, it is non-toxic and safe for use by artists of all ages. However, washing your hands after handling any art materials is always a good idea, especially if you have sensitive skin or allergies.

Can Super Sculpey Be Used for Jewelry Making?

Yes, it is a popular choice for jewelry making due to its fine detailing and durability. Whether you're creating pendants, earrings, or bracelets, It can be sculpted and baked to create stunning, one-of-a-kind pieces.

How Durable is it?

It is incredibly durable once baked, making it ideal for both decorative and functional pieces. Whether you're creating sculptures, figurines, or jewelry, this material retains its shape and integrity over time, ensuring that your creations stand the test of time.