How to Prevent Fingerprints on Fimo
Fimo is polymer clay made of a mixture of resins, plastics and ingredients kept secret by manufacturers. It is bake-cured after shaping and can be used for a variety of craft applications, including bead making and sculpting figures. Among the different varieties of polymer clay, Fimo is one of the stiffer brands. Although this increased stiffness may help prevent fingerprints during crafting, some may be still left behind by the crafter's hands.
Things You'll Need
- Fimo clay
- Surgical gloves
- Water
- Cornstarch
- Mineral oil or rubbing alcohol
- Cotton swabs
Instructions
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1
Work with clay that is not over-handled and too warm. Fingerprints will remain on clay that is too soft from a lot of handling. Set it aside to cool down before continuing the project you are crafting.
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2
Use surgical gloves while handling the clay to prevent fingerprints from appearing. The gloves will put a clean, smooth barrier between the clay and the oils and fingerprints of your hands.
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3
Rub cornstarch over your hands to make them smoother before working with the clay if you prefer not to use gloves. You can also use baby powder.
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4
Shape clay pieces using clay tools instead of fingers to shape and mold the clay when possible, creating a smooth, even surface.
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Smooth out small fingerprint patterns by dabbing your finger in water and rubbing the print gently away. Also, mineral oil or rubbing alcohol applied with a cotton swab can be used to remove fingerprints.
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References
Comments
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polymerclay
Feb 03, 2010
These are all excellent tips! Chilling clay in the fridge or just leaving it to rest for a bit before doing a final smoothing, will help firm up the clay and make rubbing out fingerprints go a little easier!
