Paper Clay Tile Instructions
Several have asked how I made the tiles out of Paper Clay. I thought I would list the instructions for everyone to see. Please be kind. I have never done instructions like this before so if they seem confusing or you have questions just ask.
1) I rolled the paper clay out with an acrylic brayer or you could use a rolling pin. I made mine abut a 1/4 inch thick, however I am going to make them about 3/8 in thick next time. The thinner ones seemed to curl some when they dried. I cut out the shapes I wanted with what ever I could find, cookie cutters, metal jar rings, I used precut paper oval and square to trace sound for cutting those shapes. I cut them with an exto knife.
I also put in the eyepin at this point, or a looped wire for the holder. If you use the eyepin remember to put it in so that the hole is sideways not facing you. I made this mistake and had to turn them after wards. It worked but I am worried it might have made the bond weaker.
2) I dried them in the oven (for the most part) at the temperature the Paper Clay instructions recommend. I believe that was 250 degrees. I placed mine on cookie sheet with parchment paper underneath. I did turn them once during the baking time. I don't remember how long, but I don't think it was more than 20 minutes total. It is something you have to watch. I then took them out and put them on a rack to finish drying.
3) After they were completely dry ( you can tell because both sides will be white not grayish) I sanded the fronts and sides with a fine grit sand paper. I used a tan sanding block I found at Wal-mart for doing my tiles. I sanded the fronts and edges until they were smooth. They will be a little rough if you don't. This is a messy part, very find dust.
4) I stamped the image with Stazon ink and heat set it with my embossing gun. After it cooled I colored the image with my pastels. They go on nice and smooth. The clay really takes the color well. If you make a mistake or you need to erase, the pastels come off really nice as well.
5) I then sprayed hairspray over them lightly so that the pastels were set. I am not sure you would need to do this but I was not taking any chances. I know a couple of these I did the pastels in the darkers colors did run and I am not sure why.
6) After the hairspray had dried I used Modge Podge to coat them and make them shiny. I tried a spay lacquer like I use on the tiles but it seemed to soak into the clay to much. I found the Modge Podge was perfect for the luster I was looking for.
7) I then found a jump ring and a decorative bracelet charm or closure to add to that for the hanger.
I hope these were clear enought to follow. They really are pretty easy. I think the hardest part was coming up with an image to put on them. I like them better than the marble tiles because you can hang them easier. The marble tiles are just too heavy and I can't find anything to use to hang them with.
I intend to make a punch and keep them on hand. I think I will try a bunch of different sizes too. They will make great gifts.
If you have any questions please ask.
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