Polymer Clay Art and Supplies

What is leaching?
Leaching is the process of removing the oils out of Sculpey so that it is easier to work with.  We all love Sculpey, but most agree that it is too soft and especially in humid areas becomes too sticky.  This process eliminates this making Sculpey both firm and pliable.  Sculpey actually has come out with a new firm sculpey, but don't buy it because when you leach your regular Sculpey it is the exact same thing.

Here is the process to leach sculpey:

1. You will need Sculpey, two 8.5"x11" pieces of paper(computer paper works fine), rolling pin or pasta roller, books or heavy objects
2. Make the sculpey thin either with a rolling pin or pasta roller.  1/8" - 1/4" is good
3. Place thinned sheets of sculpey in between the two pieces of paper
4. Place a bunch of books or heavy weights over the sculpey.  It's important that the weight is distributed equally over the clay.
5. Wait anywhere from 1-4 hours.
6. Remove sheets of paper.  You will see leached oil residue on the paper. Enjoy your firm clay

If clay happens to become too brittle that's okay.  Sculpey has what's called Sculpey Diluent which will bring it back to life if you work it through it.

That's it.

Tags: firm sculpey, how to leech sculpey, sculpey to sticky

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