Polymer Clay Switch Plate Directions
Decorated switch plates can bring color and style to a room. Choose a polymer clay that is designed to bake in the oven to finish; do not bake a craft clay that must be air-dried. If you are an experienced clay user, you may choose to create a pattern or picture using several different pieces of colored clay. If you are new to the procedure, you may wish to purchase cylinder-shaped clay that includes a pattern of colors on the inside. This clay can be sliced and the pieces laid down flat to create a piece of art.
Instructions
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Test your switch plate's resistance to heat. Many plastic switch plates will stand up to heat, but some will not. Before applying the clay, place your switch plate for a few minutes in a 275 degree oven or the temperature indicated on your polymer clay package. Make sure the plate does not melt. Let the plate cool before applying clay.
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Apply the clay to the front of the switch plate. The clay should be approximately 1/8 inch thick. The clay should reach right to the edges. You can apply a simple design by slicing a pre-patterned clay and placing the slices in even rows from the top to the bottom of the plate until the entirety of it is covered. Another option is to cover the entire switch plate in a single layer of one color of clay.
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3
Roll over the switch plate with a small roller such as a dowel or even a fat marker to ensure even distribution and to fill in gaps if you have applied the clay in pieces. This will give the plate a flat surface.
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4
Carve around the clay that covers the screw holes and switch hole, if necessary, and remove. Remember to keep these areas free of clay so the switch plate will be usable after baking.
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Create three-dimensional patterns if you are an experienced clay user or wish to experiment with more elaborate designs. Make sure your three dimensional pieces do not cover the screw and switch holes of the plate. You can also carve a simple pattern in the clay by creating shallow grooves with an X-acto knife or toothpick.
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Bake the covered switch plate in an oven according to the directions on your polymer clay package. Let the plate cool for approximately 10 to 15 minutes after baking.
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