Creating polymer clay charms in the shape of carnations is a fun and creative way to incorporate the beauty of plants into your crafts. Follow the step-by-step guide below to make your own stunning carnation-shaped polymer clay charms.
1. Polymer clay in various colors (green for leaves and stems, and your choice of colors for the petals) 2. Craft knife or clay cutting tool 3. Rolling pin or clay roller 4. Floral wire or toothpicks 5. Oven or toaster oven 6. Oven thermometer 7. Baking tray lined with parchment paper 8. Sandpaper or nail file (optional) 9. Glossy varnish or glaze (optional) 10. Paintbrush (if using varnish or glaze)
Start by conditioning the polymer clay according to the manufacturer's instructions. Knead the clay until it becomes soft and pliable. Divide the clay into sections, one for each color you plan to use for the petals.
Take a small piece of clay in your desired petal color and roll it into a ball. Flatten the ball using your fingers or a rolling pin to create a thin, oval-shaped petal. Repeat this process to create multiple petals, as many as you want for your carnation charm.
Using a craft knife or clay cutting tool, make small cuts along the edges of each petal to create a fringed effect. Gently curl the edges of the petals inward to give them a natural appearance. Repeat this process for all the petals.
Take one petal and place it on a flat surface. Apply a small amount of pressure to the center of the petal using your finger or a toothpick to create a slight indentation. This will give the petal a more realistic shape. Repeat this step for all the petals.
Roll a small piece of clay in a contrasting color into a ball. Flatten the ball slightly and shape it into a cone or dome shape. This will be the center of your carnation charm.
Apply a small amount of liquid polymer clay or water to the indentation on each petal. Gently press the petals around the center, overlapping them slightly to create a layered effect. Continue attaching the petals until you are satisfied with the shape and fullness of your carnation charm.
Roll out a small piece of green clay and cut out leaf shapes using a craft knife or clay cutting tool. Attach the leaves to the bottom of the carnation charm, ensuring they are securely pressed into place. To create stems, roll thin strips of green clay and attach them to the leaves.
Preheat your oven or toaster oven to the temperature recommended by the polymer clay manufacturer. Place the carnation charm on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and bake it according to the manufacturer's instructions. Use an oven thermometer to ensure the temperature is accurate.
Once the charm has cooled, you can sand any rough edges using sandpaper or a nail file. If desired, you can also apply a glossy varnish or glaze to give the charm a shiny finish. Use a paintbrush to evenly coat the charm with the varnish or glaze, and let it dry completely.
Now you have a beautiful carnation-shaped polymer clay charm ready to be used in various crafts such as jewelry making, keychains, or decorative items. Let your creativity flourish and enjoy the beauty of nature in your handmade creations!
