Cute pendants from clay

There are thousands of shapes you can form from polymer clay. But these days, the shapes are both decorative and functional. But what I really like about these clay items are the colors and flexibility – you can combine them with other colors, mix and match or decorate them with beads, glasses and other stones.

Pendants are my favorite and after trying out several designs, some copied, some originals, I now have a collection of polymer clay pendants to wear depending on my moods and my clothes.

Some video tutorials are now available online to guide you in designing and baking polymer clay. Each one presents its own technique but here’s the basic procedure for a clay pendant to start off:

First, choose from the range of colors. You may combine two attractive colors or more. Some clay types are used for this purpose. Premo or Fimo clays are among the strongest and can stand baking. Prepare the ornament – you may use beads or metal items to add to the design.

Shape the clay and flatten to desired size and thickness. Press the ornament or bead deep enough and remove excess clay. Take a jump ring, add a piece of wire through the jump ring and twist to secure. Bend the bottom of the wire up to form a small hook and insert it into the clay.

Bake for 20 minutes at 275 degrees Fahrenheit on ceramic tile, tempered glass or invented cookie sheet.  To obtain a shiny effect, dip the pendant into Future Floor Finish and let dry.