How to Use Rub-Ons on Clay

Apply the waxy rub-ons with your fingers.

Rub-ons are typically used for scrapbooking, but can also be used on clay. Polymer clay, which is a vinyl-based clay, works best for rub-ons because of the intense colors polymer clay comes in and its elasticity. Use rub-ons on clay when crafting jewelry beads. The rub-ons cover over the clay more evenly than paint, and they can be used either before or after the polymer clay is cured or baked in a conventional oven.

Things You'll Need

• Polymer clay
• Pasta machine
• Cornstarch
• Texture plate
• Rub-on
• Sharp knife or razor blade
• Bamboo skewer
• Paper
• Baking sheet

Instructions

1. Condition your polymer clay by kneading it with your hands. This warms up and softens the clay so it is easier to handle. Flatten it with the palms of your hands.

2. Crank the clay through a pasta machine at a medium setting. Dust it lightly with cornstarch and press a texture plate evenly onto the clay sheet.

3. Dab your finger into the rub-on. A little goes a long way. Rub the rub-on onto the raised parts of your textured clay only. Cut a 2-inch square of the colored and textured clay with a sharp knife or razor blade.

4. Roll out a ball from the scrap polymer clay that is approximately 3/4-inch wide. Wrap the ball with the textured clay with the rub-on. Cut off any excess clay. If needed, apply more rub-on to the ball.

5. Insert a bamboo skewer to make the hole for the bead. Bake on a sheet of paper on a baking sheet at 275 degrees for 25 minutes or 15 minutes per 1/4-inch thickness. After it cools, apply more rub-on to intensify the color.

Tips & Warnings

• Experiment with color combinations of the clay and the rub-on. Choose colors that complement each other, such as a light colored rub-on and a dark colored clay.

• Medallions and other jewelry charms are also ways to use the rub-ons.

• Use a tissue paper if you need to polish the rub-on after you apply it.

References

• Scrapbooking; Metallic Rub-ons by Craf-T Products; Deena Canup