In this photo tutorial, I will show you how to create solid textured rings from polymer clay. In the following tutorial, I will demonstrate how to paint the rings with alcohol inks and finish them with stained glass paints.
Throughout this tutorial, you’ll learn to craft quite durable rings entirely from polymer clay without needing internal reinforcement. The texture on the rings is created using our silicone textures.
You might wonder – won’t they be too fragile without an internal base? This depends on several factors. For example, directly on the clay itself – not all clay is suitable for such rings. For instance, Sculpey 3 is quite fragile. As for stronger clays – Certainly, Fimo, Premo (Premo Accent, Premo Translucent), and a very durable clay I recently discovered – Kato polyclay.
Another significant factor in the strength of the product is proper baking. Like many other artists, I recommend purchasing a thermometer to only bake with it. This allows you to set the correct temperature and achieve high durability of the plastic.
The last but not the least factor is the thickness of your ring – the durability depends on it, although this also depends on the clay’s strength. I made a ring 1 mm thick, and it remained strong and even slightly springy when pressed.
So, let’s get started!
Materials you’ll need to create rings from polymer clay
To create textured rings from polymer clay, you will need the following tools and materials:
- Premo white and Premo Accent – Pearl polymer clay
- Adirondack Alcohol Ink (or any alcohol inks you have)
- Silicone textures or rubber textures
- Solvent-based stained glass paints (I used ST ClassPaint)
- A sharp polymer clay blades
- A rolling pin and pasta machine
- Rubber gloves (I use cut-off fingers from gloves for my thumb and index fingers)
- Modeling tools
- Metal caps from perfume bottles or other suitable ring bases (but avoid plastic as we’ll be baking them with clay)
- Fine paint brushes
- Fine grit sandpaper for sanding baked pieces
- Moist wipes and a small jar of water for brush cleaning
Preparing the clay
First, we need to prepare the clay. I mixed white and pearlescent clays to a uniform color and rolled out a sheet to a 2 mm thickness using a pasta machine. Cut it into blanks for texturing using texturing mats.
You can lightly spray the texturing mat with water to prevent the clay from sticking during rolling. But not too much because the mat will slide over the clay and cause a doubled pattern.
I prepared 4 texture options and imprinted them on my clay sheets. The thickness of the clay remained around 1.5-2 mm. This will be sufficient for my rings. The strength did not decrease, and the comfort of wear is ideal.
Next, cut the blanks into strips 1 and 1.5 cm wide (1.5 cm wide is needed for a ring with blown sides). Although the width of the ring is not crucial – it’s up to personal preference. I made a ring 0.5 cm wide – it looks great.
Creating the polymer clay rings
Now, let’s proceed to make the ring. Make a diagonal cut at the beginning of the strip, wrap it around the cap, and mark the second side of the cut – cut and wrap, folding the edge to the edge and smoothing it with a finger, brush, or another modeling tool. Additionally, the clay’s adhesion at the joint can be enhanced by drawing a pattern with a thin needle, awl, or toothpick.
Conclusion
Congratulations on completing this polymer clay ring tutorial. By now, you should have a beautifully textured ring, personalized with your choice of colors and finishes. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different textures, colors, and shapes to create unique pieces that reflect your style.
If you enjoyed this tutorial and found it helpful, please consider sharing your creations and experiences. Engage with fellow crafters online or in your community to exchange tips and inspire each other. If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out or comment below. I look forward to seeing your amazing designs of polymer clay rings and hearing about your creative journey!
Stay creative and keep crafting!
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