When it comes to coloring polymer clay, there are a few different methods that you can use. This article will explore the most effective info on how to color white polymer clay.
So, if you are looking for tips and tricks on getting the perfect colors every time, keep reading.
What is Polymer Clay?
Before we jump into the details of coloring white polymer clay, let’s start with a brief overview of what polymer clay is.
Polymer clay is a non-toxic modeling compound used as an alternative to traditional arts and crafts materials such as wood, ceramics, and metal.
It has become trendy amongst artists and crafters around the world for its immense versatility and durability. Plus, paint polymer clay is definitely worth trying if you want to expand your horizons in terms of creating new types of artwork.
The Types of Polymer Clay?
You can find translucent polymer clay in a variety of colors. However, you may not be aware that it is also available in white. If you are new to using this type of material to create various art and crafts projects, we recommend starting with the more popular colors such as reds, yellows, and blues.
The Different Methods On How to Color White Polymer Clay?
There are several ways that you can use to color your polymer clay. This section will briefly discuss the different methods available and their pros and cons.
1. Using Acrylic Paints
Using acrylic paints is by far the most popular method to color white polymer clay. This is due in large part to the fact that they are available in a wide variety of colors.
They are also non-toxic and water-based, so you don’t have to worry about them staining your hands or clothes.
2. Using Markers
Using markers is another popular method of getting the desired colors on white clay. They are also very easy to use as you have to press down onto the tip of your marker and leave some color behind.
This pretty straightforward approach has a little-to-no learning curve in terms of convenience.
3. Using Acrylic Paint Pens
Using acrylic paint pens is a great way to color your polymer clay. We recommend this method because they help you achieve similar results as using markers, except there is no need for having a steady hand!
They are also straightforward to clean up and will last a long time before you need to replace them.
4. Using Dye Ink Pens
If you are looking for the perfect marker alternative, this is it! Dye ink pens offer similar convenience as acrylic paint pens (see above) without the mess or fuss of constantly cleaning them afterward.
The only downside here is that they can be a little harder to find and tend to be more expensive than other markers.
5. Using Metal Leaf
Another great way to color polymer clay is by using a metal leaf. The cool thing about this method is that it allows you to get a unique look that you can’t achieve with any previous options, such as acrylic paint and dye ink pens.
6. Gilding Wax
Last but certainly not least, you can use gilding wax to get the desired colors on your raw clay.
The main benefit of using this method is that it quickly achieves similar effects as with metal leaf (see above). The only downside here is that it can be pretty challenging for beginners as they might not know how to work with this type of material or have access to the proper equipment.
7. Using Food Coloring
Food coloring is an excellent option if you give your polymer clay a specific color, such as pink or yellow. Some folks have been known to use this method on the more popular white polymer clay brands such as Fimo and Sculpey.
8. Using Colored Pencils
If you have a steady hand, then using colored pencils will definitely benefit your workflow as this method offers great control and precision as you can better draw on your desired patterns or designs.
9. Using Watercolors
Watercolors are another great option for those looking to achieve pastel effects with their polymer clay. The main benefit of using this type of method is that they allow you to create a unique look when compared to other methods such as acrylic paint and markers.
10. Using Airbrush Paints
Airbrush paints are another good alternative for those looking to add a certain vibrancy or richness to their polymer clay projects. Plus, it is our opinion that this method offers the most accurate coloring results as you can adjust the color without worrying about its undertones.
11. Using Oil Paints
Oil paints are great for painting large surfaces or filling in larger areas. This method works best when you want to achieve a solid form of expression, which is why it is great for backgrounds and large surfaces.
12. Using Dry Brushing
Dry brushing is a great alternative if you want to add subtle transitions of color to your polymer clay projects.
Tips on Getting the Perfect Colors Every Time
Here are some useful tips that should help you get just the color you are looking for.
- Use a black light when selecting your marker to reveal the true shades.
- It can also be beneficial if you shade one half of your piece with its deepest color and leave the other side white. This way, it doesn’t matter if you accidentally go outside of your lines as you can quickly clean it up using a cleaner.
- Make sure always to read the instructions on each product, as they will typically give you specific tips and tricks to help you achieve the color(s) that you are looking for.
- You should also remember that, in most cases, you will need to buy different brands of markers if your colour is too light or dark. We recommend going one shade lighter and darker for the best results, respectively.
- If you plan on working with a specific brand for an extended period of time, then it might be a good idea to purchase a sampler pack, as this will help you determine which brands work best depending on your specific needs.
- Be aware that some types of markers, such as alcohol-based and oil-based paints, can be used to achieve a custom look. However, we recommend staying away from them as they might not work well with colored clay projects.
How to Store and Preserve Your Coloring Clay?
Here are some valuable tips on how to best store and preserve your coloring clay:
1. Always Clean Your Tools:
No matter how careful you are, you might find that your tools will start to pick up on the color of whatever clay or marker that you have been using. To avoid staining your clay, be sure always to clean your equipment by hand as soon as possible.
2. Use a Sealant:
After adding any new coloring option to your polymer clay project, we recommend applying a sealant to help protect your new color.
3. Store Your Clay in an Original Box or Glass Container:
When stacking your polymer clay projects together, it is essential that you give them enough space between one another, so they do not stick together while at the same time keeping enough room for air circulation.
4. Store Your Clay Properly:
It is also essential that you store your clay properly as it can become more firm and hard if exposed to excessive moisture or direct sunlight.
Conclusion
When it comes to coloring your polymer clay, there are a variety of different methods that you can use. We’ve outlined the 12 best techniques in this article, so be sure to try them out and see which ones work best for you. In addition, we’ve also included some tips and tricks on how to get the perfect color every time. So what are you waiting for? Start experimenting with these fun techniques today.
