How to Select a Polymer Glaze for Sculpting

Contributor

By eHow Contributing Writer

Article Rating:

(1 Ratings)

Polymer is a synthetic, oil-based clay that comes in many colors and textures. Sculpting with this colorful medium eliminates the need for glazing in most cases, as certain brands of polymer already have a glossy finish. Those who want to apply a glaze to their creations usually select a clear glaze that will not affect the colors of their sculpting. Most glazes used for polymer sculpting are urethane based and take far less preparation than earthenware glazes. Polymer glazes air dry and do not need to be fired in a kiln.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Glazing tools
Oven
Glaze
Liquid floor polish

Step 1

Select the level of gloss you want to achieve. Several polymer glazes have different formulas such as matte, semi-gloss and gloss.
Step 2

Use an acrylic-based liquid floor polish for a quick, easy and inexpensive glaze. This type of polish is thin and produces a very high gloss. A drawback about this type of glaze is that sometimes it takes on a yellow tint after time passes.
Step 3

Select the application method that is appropriate to the shape of your sculpture. You can purchase glazes to spray or brush on to your artwork.
Step 4

Choose a urethane-based glaze to use on flexible items. Urethane is a lacquer that bends with the clay but does not crack or peel off. You can find urethane glazes at most hardware stores.
Step 5

Dry your glazed polymer in open air. If after several hours it is not dry, you can heat it in the oven at 200 degrees F. The glaze usually sets after an hour in the oven.

Tips & Warnings

Always buff or polish your pottery before glazing. Essentially, a clear acrylic glaze is a sealant. The condition of your work before you apply the glaze will show through the glaze after firing.
Be sure to open a window or use a fan while you fire your glazed item in the oven. Polymer gives off fumes while baking--while not toxic, they are pretty unpleasant. If you accidentally burn polymer, the fumes can be toxic.
Water based glazes are not recommended for use with polymer. They look fine in the short term but later may peel off your artwork.
Do not use clear nail polish as a glaze. Though it is tempting to apply it as a quick, glossy finish, it does not dry fully and will leave your clay sticky.