Should You Apply Mica Powder Before or After Baking?
Mica powders are excellent for many arts and crafts projects, including polymer clay. This material is so well-loved because it’s easy to work with, thanks to its soft texture. Once baked, polymer clay is hard. Although these clays come in many colors, you may want to add more color or a metallic finish to a piece. That’s where mica powder comes in!
Follow along as we discuss when to apply mica powder to polymer clay so you’ll understand the best time to add color to your clay project.
Why Mica Powder Is Good for Polymer Clay
Polymer clay has a smooth texture and is just tacky enough that substances easily adhere to it. This is one of the reasons mica powders work so well as color application for polymer clay. The powders are easy to apply and stay in place.
If the hardened clay is for decorative purposes only and won’t experience regular handling, there is no need for a sealer coat on the piece after baking the mica onto the clay.
Mica powders add something extra to polymer clay workpieces. They give a metallic glimmer to colored clay and are perfect for small parts or the entire piece.
Applying Mica Powder Before Baking
Because of polymer clay’s adhesive texture, it’s best to apply the mica powders before baking. The best way to add them to your clay projects is with your fingers or a dry paintbrush. Simply sprinkle the powder where you see fit, then spread it into a thin layer. Remember, mica powders only adhere to the areas where they bake directly onto polymer clay. Any powder not touching the clay is wasted.
What if the Clay Is Already Baked?
Good news! If you missed the opportunity to apply mica powders before baking your polymer clay, you aren’t too late. Although the application is easiest before baking, you can get that mica sparkle even after baking your workpiece.
First, choose an adhesive that is safe for polymer clay, such as clay-safe glue or liquid clay. Brush the adhesive onto your finished piece and cover it lightly with mica powder. Another option is to mix your mica powders with a clay-safe varnish, making a paint to use on baked polymer clay.
Unfortunately, putting mica powders on clay after baking will not yield the best results. When choosing between applying mica powders before or after baking, you should apply it beforehand.
At Eye Candy Pigments, we love making your world sparkle and shine. Our powder pigments are the highest quality available, and we are proud to offer a rainbow of colors. Whether you need bronze pigment for your latest addition to your home’s décor or candy red for some fashion statement earrings, we can help you find the best color. Check our site or contact us so you can focus on what you do best—creating!