Translucent polymer clay can be baked multiple times without issue, as long as you follow a few key recommendations.
This type of clay fully cures in the oven at temperatures between 110°C and 130°C, depending on the brand. If you need to add details, colors, or correct parts after the first bake, you can bake the piece again. It’s important not to exceed the recommended temperature, as overheating can cause the translucent clay to yellow or degrade.
Tips to avoid problems:
- Heat distribution: Cover the pieces with aluminum foil to better distribute the heat and avoid direct contact with the oven’s heat.
- Temperature control: Use an oven thermometer to ensure the temperature is accurate since household ovens can be inconsistent.
- Multiple baking: If baking several times, reduce the baking time in later stages. Once the base is cured, a few additional minutes should be enough to harden added details. For example, bake the base for 30 minutes and added elements for 15 minutes more.
- Avoid internal bubbles: These form when the clay heats too quickly. To avoid this, lower the temperature slightly and bake for a longer time, especially with thicker pieces.
✍️ Recommendation: Always document your experiments with times and temperatures to learn and improve with each project.
- Two articles by Phyllis Cahill:Well-documented, explaining how to avoid “plaquing”in translucent clay and her experience with a second bake.
- Ginger Davis Allman’s article:Details the properties and differences between various brands of translucent clay,while offering practical solutions to common problems.
These experts provide valuable insights into advanced techniques and polymer clay baking.
Special thanks to Inma for adding this question.
