Got questions about sanding, buffing, and polishing Fimo, Sculpey, and other types of polymer clay? This 1,300-word round-up of frequently asked questions contains the answers you need.
Polymer clay sanding FAQs
What is sanding
Sanding is gently rubbing polymer clay with sandpaper to smooth the surface, removing imperfections such fingerprints and indentations. Sanding can help to prepare the surface of polymer clay for finishing with paint, varnish, or other coatings.
What is the difference between polishing, buffing, and sanding
Sanding is the process of using sandpaper to smooth and shape polymer clay. Buffing is the process of using a soft cloth or buffing wheel to smooth and shine the surface of polymer clay. Polishing is the final step in the finishing process, after buffing and sanding.
Read more
- How to polish, sand and buff polymer clay
- 7 Mistakes to avoid when working with polymer clay
- How to easily remove finger prints from polymer clay
- 10 Beginners tips for polymer clay
What is the difference between normal and wet/dry sandpaper?
Normal sandpaper can be used dry or wet, but it is not as durable as dedicated wet/dry sandpaper and can peel apart. Wet/dry sandpaper is designed to be used with water, which helps to reduce dust and prevents clogging.
What is the grit rating in sandpaper
Grit in sandpaper refers to the size of the abrasive particles. The higher the grit rating number, the finer the abrasive particles and the smoother the finish. Sandpaper is typically graded with a scale of 24 to 2000, with 24 being the coarsest and 2000 being the finest.
What grit sandpaper should I use for sanding polymer clay?
To sand polymer clay, start with a medium-grit sandpaper (such as 400 grit) and work your way up to a higher-grit sandpaper (such as 1500 grit).
How do I sand polymer clay?
To sand polymer clay, simply rub the sandpaper over the surface of the clay in a circular motion. Be careful not to sand too hard, as this can damage the clay. Continue sanding until the desired smoothness is achieved.
How long should I sand polymer clay for?
The amount of time you need to sand polymer clay will depend on the desired smoothness and the type of sandpaper you are using. If you are using a low-grit sandpaper, you may need to sand for several minutes. If you are using a high-grit sandpaper, you may only need to sand for a few seconds. I typically sand for a few minutes with each sheet.
How do I know when my polymer clay is sanded enough?
Your polymer clay is sanded enough when it is smooth to the touch. You can check this by running your fingers over the surface of the clay. If you feel any bumps or imperfections, continue sanding.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when sanding polymer clay?
Some common mistakes to avoid when sanding polymer clay include:
- Over-sanding: Over-sanding can remove too much material from the surface of the clay and make it look dull.
- Sanding too hard: Sanding too hard can damage the surface of the clay and create scratches.
- Using the wrong grit sandpaper: Using the wrong grit sandpaper can make it difficult to achieve the desired smoothness.
How can I avoid scratching my polymer clay when sanding?
To avoid scratching your polymer clay when sanding, use a light touch and sand in a circular motion. You can also use a high-grit sandpaper to reduce the risk of scratching.
What is the best way to sand polymer clay beads?
The best way to sand polymer clay beads is to use a small piece of sandpaper and sand them individually. This will help to prevent scratching.
Polymer clay polishing FAQs
What is polishing?
Polishing is the process of using a polishing compound or paste to create a high-gloss finish on polymer clay.
What types of polishing compounds and pastes are available?
There are many different types of polishing compounds and pastes available, each with its own unique properties. Some polishing compounds are more abrasive than others, while some are designed specifically for polymer clay.
How do I choose the right polishing compound or paste for my polymer clay project?
Choose a polishing compound or paste based on the desired finish and the type of polymer clay you are using. For example, if you want a high-gloss finish, you will need to use a more abrasive polishing compound. If you are using a delicate type of polymer clay, you will need to use a less abrasive polishing compound.
How do I apply polishing compound or paste?
Apply a small amount of polishing compound or paste to a soft cloth or buffing wheel. Rub the polishing compound or paste into the surface of the polymer clay in a circular motion. Continue buffing until the desired shine is achieved.
How do I know when my polymer clay is polished enough?
Your polymer clay is polished enough when it has a high-gloss finish. You can check this by holding the polymer clay up to the light and looking for any imperfections. If you see any imperfections, you can continue buffing.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when polishing polymer clay?
Some common mistakes to avoid when polishing polymer clay include:
- Over-polishing: Over-polishing can damage the surface of the polymer clay and make it look dull.
- Using too much polishing compound or paste: Using too much polishing compound or paste can make the polymer clay greasy and sticky.
- Not buffing enough: Not buffing enough will prevent you from achieving the desired shine.
How can I seal my polished polymer clay project?
To seal your polished polymer clay project, apply a thin coat of varnish or glaze. This will help protect the finish and make it last longer.
Can I polish polymer clay without using a polishing compound or paste?
Yes, you can polish polymer clay without using a polishing compound or paste, but it will take longer and the results may not be as good. To polish polymer clay without using a polishing compound or paste, you can use a soft cloth or buffing wheel and buff the clay in a circular motion.
What is the best way to polish polymer clay beads?
The best way to polish polymer clay beads is to use a soft cloth or buffing wheel and a small amount of polishing compound or paste. Apply a small amount of polishing compound or paste to the cloth or buffing wheel and rub it in a circular motion over the surface of the bead. Continue buffing until the desired shine is achieved.
Polymer clay buffing FAQs
What is buffing?
Buffing is the process of using a soft cloth or buffing wheel to smooth and shine the surface of polymer clay.
What types of buffing wheels are available?
There are many different types of buffing wheels available, made from a variety of materials. Some common materials include cotton, felt, and muslin.
How do I attach a buffing wheel to my drill?
– To attach a buffing wheel to your drill, simply insert the arbor of the buffing wheel into the chuck of the drill and tighten.
How do I buff polymer clay?
To buff polymer clay, apply a small amount of polishing compound or paste to the buffing wheel. Rub the polishing compound or paste into the surface of the polymer clay in a circular motion. Continue buffing until the desired shine is achieved.
What is the best way to buff polymer clay beads?
The best way to buff polymer clay beads is to use a soft cloth or buffing wheel and a small amount of polishing compound or paste. Apply a small amount of polishing compound or paste to the cloth or buffing wheel and rub it in a circular motion over the surface of the bead. Continue buffing until the desired shine is achieved.
How do I clean a buffing wheel?
To clean your buffing wheel, simply wipe it down with a damp cloth. You can also use a mild soap or detergent if necessary.
Where next
- How to lift polymer clay without stretching and distortion
- Best air fryer for polymer clay
- Best air fryer for polymer clay
> A final, personal, note: I spend a huge amount of time testing, photographing, writing and researching techniques for these articles and pay for all the running costs of MRE out of my own pocket. If you found this article useful you can support me by making a donation on my fund-raising page. Thanks and happy modelling, Andy.
Andy is a lifelong modeler, writer, and founder of modelrailwayengineer.com. He has been building model railways, dioramas, and miniatures for over 20 years. His passion for model making and railways began when he was a child, building his first layout at the age of seven.
Andy’s particular passion is making scenery and structures in 4mm scale, which he sells commercially. He is particularly interested in modelling the railways of South West England during the late Victorian/early Edwardian era, although he also enjoys making sci-fi and fantasy figures and dioramas. His website has won several awards, and he is a member of MERG (Model Railway Electronics Group) and the 009 Society.
When not making models, Andy lives in Surrey with his wife and teenage son. Other interests include history, science fiction, photography, and programming. Read more about Andy.