Beginner's Guide to Polymer Clay Cutters

Hey there, fellow creative soul! If you're diving into the world of polymer clay, you're in for a treat. Polymer clay cutters are absolute game-changers when it comes to crafting unique designs, especially if you're into making polymer clay earrings. Let's explore these handy tools and how they can improve crafting time and repeatability in your jewellery making game.

What Are Polymer Clay Cutters?

Imagine a cookie cutter, but for clay. It's that simple. Polymer clay cutters come in all shapes and sizes, allowing you to easily cut out precise shapes from your clay slab. They’re perfect for making consistent designs and adding a professional touch to your creations. Whether you’re creating geometric shapes or floral patterns, there’s a cutter out there for you.

Choosing the Right Cutters

So, how do you pick the right polymer clay cutters? Here are a few things to consider:

1. Material: Look for cutters made from stainless steel or high-quality plastic. They’re durable and can withstand multiple uses without losing their shape.
2. Size: Depending on your design, you might need various sizes. Start with a basic set in several sizes and expand as you experiment with different styles and find your favorite. 
3. Shape Variety: Consider building a set with a good mix of basic and intricate shapes to give you flexibility in your designs.

Tips for Using Polymer Clay Cutters

Alright, let’s get into some tips and tricks for using these bad boys:

• Condition Your Clay: Make sure your clay is well-conditioned and rolled out evenly without air bubbles. This helps in making clean cuts without any rough edges.

• Prevent Sticking: Dust your cutters with a bit of cornflour, dip them in soapy water or lay a piece of plastic wrap over the clay before cutting. This prevents the clay from sticking to the cutter. Try all 3 to find the best method for you and the brand of clay you're using. 

• Apply Even Pressure: Press down evenly on the cutter to get a clean, consistent shape. You can use a small roller or a flat tool like a coaster to apply pressure if needed.
• Lift the cutter carefully: This will help avoid the clay lifting from your chosen surface -we use glossy tiles as they can go straight into the oven. 

Experiment and Have Fun

The beauty of using polymer clay cutters is the freedom to experiment with designs. Mix and match shapes, use additives, layer different colours, and add textures to create one-of-a-kind pieces. Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try new techniques.

Ensuring Quality and Durability

As you play around with polymer clay, remember to test your pieces for durability. Bake them according to the clay manufacturer's instructions and allow them to cool completely. This ensures that your creations are not only beautiful but also long-lasting.

So there you have it, a beginner's guide to polymer clay cutters! Whether you're crafting for fun or building a jewellery business, these tools will help you create stunning designs with ease. Keep experimenting, stay inspired, and most importantly, enjoy the creative process. You've got this!

So, you've bought your cutters - many of them. What next? Check out this brief guide to polymer clay cutter storage and keep your crafting space stress-free!

Got any cool designs or tips to share? I'd love to hear from you in the comments below!