How to Make Polymer Clay Bead From Push Molds

Push molds allow you to create clay pieces in identical, professionally-sculpted forms. However, since push molds are flat on one side, they create shapes that don't lend themselves naturally to bead making. Beads spin around, so it's problematic if they have a “right” and “wrong” side. When making beads from push-mold forms, therefore, you must create two molded shapes and combine them back to back without marring their shape.

Things You'll Need

• Freezer
• Lint-free towel
• Needle

Instructions

1. Choose a mold that will work for bead-making. Since beads spin themselves around on wire or cord, you will need to create a bead with two molded sides in order for it to look good as it turns. For this to work, you need a mold that's symmetrical, where two impressions can be placed back-to-back and their edges will line up.

2. Create two impressions from the mold. Press clay into the mold. Use just enough to fill the mold, trimming away any excess from the top and sides. Make sure both molded pieces have the same thickness, or as close as possible.

3. Chill the two bead halves by placing them in a freezer for 10 minutes. This will firm them and help minimize any misshaping when you attach them to one another and create a bead hole. Make sure they don't get wet during this time (water keeps polymer clay from sticking). If any condensation forms on the bead halves after you remove them, pat them dry with a lint-free towel.

4. Soften a small piece of clay in the same color as the molded pieces. Use just enough clay to form a thin sheet between the flat sides of the two molds. Work the clay in your hands until it's as soft as possible; ideally, it should be soft enough that you can spread it like a paste. For best results, do this while the other pieces are chilling to minimize the amount of time between removing the cold pieces and going on to the next step.

5. Cover one of the molded piece's flat sides with softened clay, then press the other piece against this coated surface, lining up the edges of the molds. Press the two pieces together so that the soft clay oozes out the edges, then wipe this excess away with your finger. This process will also blend and join the two pieces.

6. Create the bead hole. Wet the needle, then poke it through the bead. Twist the needle back and forth as you push it through, Run this hole between the two joined pieces where the clay is soft.